Updates on Singapore Foreign’s Workforce Framework

In our spotlight on the APAC series, we round up the latest developments across the Asia Pacific. In this post, we look at the recent updates on Singapore Foreign’s Workforce framework.

Singapore has recently announced its changes to the work permit framework in a bid to give employers greater flexibility in hiring and retaining talent.

1. Work Permit (WP)

Key changes:

• Starting Jul 1, Work Permit holders will no longer be subjected to a maximum employment period, which currently ranges from 14 to 26 years based on skill level, sector and county of origin.

• Maximum employment age for work permit (WP) holders will be raised from 60 to 63 years old, in line with the local retirement age.

• For non-Malaysian & Malaysian, the age limit for new applicants will also be raised to 61, from the current 50.

• From Jun 1, the non-traditional sources (NTS) countries will include Bhutan, Cambodia and Laos.

• From Sep 1, the range of occupation list from non-traditional (NTS) sources will expand to include cooks, heavy vehicle drivers and manufacturing operator.

2. S Pass – Changes to qualifying salaries

The changes to the qualifying salaries take effect for new S Pass applications from Sep 1 this year and renewal applications from Sep 1, 2026.

Key changes:

• All other sector (except for financial services) – the salary will increase from S$3150 to S$3300 (progressively increase with age, up to S$4800 for mid-40s candidates).

• Financial Services – the salary will increase from S$3650 to S$3800 (progressively increase with age, up to S$5650 for mid-40s candidates)

• The S Pass levy will be standardised at S$650 for all S Pass holders from Sep 1.

Additionally, no further changes to the EP qualifying salaries.

3. Manpower for Strategic Economic Priorities (M-SEP)

During the Singapore budget 2025, the ministry also announced enhancements to the Manpower for Strategic Economic Priorities (M-SEP) scheme.

From May 1 this year, the scheme support duration will be extended to three (3) years.

In addition, an additional pathway for firms to fulfil Condition 2. Besides investing in the training or hiring of locals, firms can also commit to send locals on overseas job exposure or leadership programmes.

MOM will also expand the list of eligible programmes recognised under the two conditions.

4. New Enterprise Workforce Transformation Package

The Ministry of Manpower has set aside S$400m Enterprise Workforce Transformation Package to help businesses transforms jobs and boost productivity.

Moreover, the new SkillsFuture Workforce Development Grant, which will be available from the second half of 2026 will provide higher funding support of up to 70 per cent for job redesign activities. This will last for three (3) years.

For more information on the process or any assistance you require on global immigration matters please do not hesitate to contact [email protected] or [email protected].

Author