Thinking about relocating to Singapore for your career?
With its diverse job market spanning from professional to skilled and semi-skilled roles, no wonder Singapore is a popular destination for job seekers from across the border. While securing a work permit in Singapore is a pivotal step for many foreign professionals looking to advance their careers, the application process can be quite complex, especially for those who have no clue where to start.
At Leader Employment, we understand the complexities of the work permit application process and are here to guide you through each step. By the end of this blog post, we hope you have gained valuable insights into the procedures, requirements, and best practices for how to apply work permit in Singapore.
Understanding the Work Permit Singapore
The Work Permit (WP) in Singapore is designed for semi-skilled foreign workers employed in labor-intensive sectors. These sectors include construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, and services. The Work Permit is aimed at addressing the need for manpower in industries that require a significant amount of manual labor. Let’s take a look at the criteria and which sectors that are involved.
Targeted sectors
The Work Permit is specifically for industries that are labor-intensive. These sectors often have high demands for manual labor and include:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Marine Shipyard
- Processes (such as petrochemical and pharmaceutical)
- Services (such as cleaning, landscaping, and maintenance)
Eligibility
Workers who apply work permit must come from a pre-approved list of countries. This ensures that the workers are from regions recognized by Singapore for providing suitable labor.
No minimum salary requirement
Unlike other work passes, such as the Employment Pass or S Pass, the Work Permit does not have a minimum salary requirement. This makes it accessible for semi-skilled workers who may not meet the salary thresholds required for other types of work passes.
Work Permit for Semi-Skilled Workers
Work Permit for Foreign Workers
This permit is specifically available to foreign workers from designated countries, permitting them to work in specific sectors such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, or services. Employers must adhere to foreign worker quotas and pay a levy.
Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Workers (FDW)
This permit is available to domestic workers aged between 23 and 50 from specified countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, and Malaysia, among others.
Work Permit for Confinement Nanny
This permit allows Malaysian nannies to work in Singapore for a period of 16 weeks, starting from the birth of a baby. Employers are required to pay a foreign worker levy.
Work Permit for Performing Artists
This permit is intended for performing artists who will be employed in approved public entertainment venues, such as bars, nightclubs, or hotels. As with other permits, foreign worker quotas and levies apply.
Steps to Apply A Work Permit in Singapore
1. Job Offer and Employer Registration
Before you can apply for a work visa in Singapore, you need to secure a job in the country. The employer must be registered with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Once the company is registered, it can proceed with the application process.
2. Submit the Application
Your employer or an Employment Agency will submit the work visa application via EP Online, including payment of a processing fee. This is all done while you remain in your home country.
3. Await Approval
After submission, the application will be reviewed by the MOM. This process usually takes one week, but in some cases, it might take more time. There will be two outcomes:
- In-Principle Approval (IPA): If your application is approved, your employer will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which will allow you to enter Singapore.
- Rejection Notification: If the application is rejected, an In-Principle Rejection letter will be issued, and you will not receive a work visa.
4. Visa Issuance Upon Approval
Once you arrive in Singapore, we will help you apply via EP Online to get your work visa issued.
5. Receive your Work Pass
Upon approval, the work permit will be issued. The successful applicant will receive a notification, and the physical work permit card can be collected. The work permit Singapore must be carried at all times while in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to process a work permit application?
Typically, the processing time is around 3-8 weeks. However, this can vary based on the complexity of the application and the completeness of the submitted documents.
2. Can the work permit be renewed?
Yes, work permits can be renewed. It is important to apply for renewal before the current permit expires to avoid any disruptions in employment.
3. Is there a work permit levy and quota?
Yes. foreign worker levy or quota is required. Employers must pay a monthly fee for each foreign worker and adhere to limits on the number of foreign workers they can employ, which vary by industry.
4. What if the application is rejected?
If an application is rejected, the applicant will be notified of the reasons for rejection. The application can be revised and resubmitted with additional supporting information if necessary.
How Leader Employment Can Help
At Leader Employment, our expertise in handling work permit applications ensures that your application process is smooth and efficient. We offer comprehensive services, including document preparation, application submission, and follow-up with the Ministry of Manpower.
Ready to apply for a work permit? Contact Leader Employment today for expert assistance and personalized support throughout the entire application process. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your career goals in Singapore seamlessly.
Conclusion
Applying for a work permit in Singapore involves several steps, from securing a job offer to gathering documents and submitting an application. By understanding the requirements and following the correct procedures, you can navigate the work permit application process with confidence. At Leader Employment, we are here to provide the support you need to make your work permit Singapore application successful.
Contact us today to get started on your journey to working in Singapore!
Email : admin@leaderemployment.com.sg
Tel : 65 -93886426
Tel : 65 -67474726
21 Bukit Batok Crescent,
WCEGA TOWER 17-75