From 1 July 2025, Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will roll out major changes to its Work Permit system — lifting stay limits, expanding eligible countries, and raising the age cap for foreign workers.
Singapore Work Permit 2025: Overview
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Authority | Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Singapore |
| Policy | Work Permit (WP) for Foreign Workers |
| Effective From | 1 July 2025 |
| Application Fee | S $35 per worker |
| Processing Time | 1 – 3 weeks |
| New Age Limit | Up to 61 for new apps, 63 for renewals |
| Stay Limit | Removed – work as long as eligible |
| New NTS Countries | Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos (+ others) |
| Official Site | www.mom.gov.sg |
Why the Rules Are Changing?
Singapore’s 2025 reforms aim to balance citizen employment opportunities with the need for a stable skilled foreign workforce. By easing restrictions on renewal age and service duration, MOM hopes to help employers retain reliable workers longer and reduce costly turnover in construction, manufacturing, shipyards, and service sectors.
“Singapore’s goal is to keep quality workers while ensuring fair chances for locals,” an MOM spokesperson told Southern Digest.
“The new structure rewards compliance, skills, and stability.”Also Read
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Key Changes Effective July 2025
| Policy Area | Old Rule | New Rule (2025) | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stay Duration | Max service years based on industry (typically 14 years) | No upper limit – work as long as eligible and approved | Allows employers to retain skilled workers |
| Age Cap | 58 – 60 yrs depending on sector | 61 for new apps, 63 for renewals | Aligns with national retirement age |
| Source Countries | Restricted to traditional NTS nations (e.g., Bangladesh, India, Myanmar) | Adds Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos and more | Broader hiring pool |
| Eligible Jobs | Mainly construction & marine | Expands to drivers, cooks, machine operators | More roles under NTS scheme |
| S Pass Threshold | $3,150 monthly | Higher salary from Sept 2025 (to encourage skilled hires) | Promotes upskilling |
| Levy Policy | Flat sector rates | Revised levies by skill tier | Favors experienced workers |
Eligibility Requirements (2025 Rules)
To qualify for a Singapore Work Permit under the new regime:
- Applicant must be ≤ 61 years old (at application).
- Citizen of an approved source country (list expanded in 2025).
- Have a valid employment offer in an MOM-approved sector.
- Employer must meet quota and foreign-worker levy rules.
- Pass a medical exam and hold a valid passport.
- Comply with MOM conditions – no job-hopping or unauthorized work without approval.
Documents Required
| Document | Who Provides | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Valid passport (≥ 6 months validity) | Worker | Identity |
| Passport-size photo | Worker | Permit card printing |
| Employment contract / offer letter | Employer | Proof of job |
| Medical report (certified doctor) | Worker | Health clearance |
| Employer’s business registration | Employer | Verification |
| Proof of accommodation in SG | Employer | Housing compliance |
| Insurance & security bond (≈ S $5,000 for non-Malays) | Employer | Legal requirement |
Fees & Processing Timeline
| Item | Amount (SGD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $35 | Per worker – non-refundable |
| Security Bond | $5,000 | Only for non-Malaysian workers |
| Monthly Levy | Varies by sector & quota | Employer-paid |
| Processing Time | 1 – 3 weeks | Faster via online portal |
| Renewal Window | 2 – 3 weeks before expiry | Online submission |
How to Apply for a Work Permit?
- Employer or employment agent logs into MOM Work Pass eService.
- Complete application form with worker and job details.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Await In-Principle Approval (IPA) email from MOM.
- Worker arrives in Singapore and undergoes medical check-up / safety training.
- MOM issues the official Work Permit card for employment commencement.
How to Check Application Status?
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the MOM Work Pass eService portal. |
| 2 | Enter Application No. or FIN number. |
| 3 | View real-time status update (“Received”, “Processing”, “Approved”). |
| 4 | Check email or SMS for official notification. |
| 5 | If delayed > 3 weeks, contact MOM helpdesk or your employment agent. |
S Pass and Levy Adjustments
Alongside Work Permit reforms, the MOM is tightening S Pass criteria:
- Minimum qualifying salary rises from Sept 2025.
- Employers encouraged to hire and retain skilled foreign workers.
- Levy rates adjusted to reward companies investing in training and productivity.
These changes form part of Singapore’s broader Fair Employment Framework — balancing economic growth with local workforce protection.
Official Comment
“Employers who follow the rules and treat workers fairly will benefit from simpler renewals,” said Tan Wei Ling, Director of Work Pass Division, MOM.
“The goal is a sustainable system that values both foreign contribution and Singaporean opportunity.”
Important Reminders
- Workers cannot change employers without MOM approval.
- Apply for renewal at least 3 weeks before expiry.
- Employers must continue to provide accommodation, insurance, and medical care.
- Work Permit holders must carry their permit card at all times.
Failure to comply can lead to fines, permit cancellation, or blacklisting for future applications.
FAQs: Singapore Work Permit 2025 Changes
Can I work in Singapore for more than 14 years now?
Yes. From July 2025, the service year cap is removed. You can work as long as you remain eligible under MOM rules.
What if I am already 62?
You may extend your permit until 63, but new applications must be filed before age 61.
Do the changes apply to domestic workers?
No. The rules cover industrial and service sectors, not migrant domestic workers.
Can I change jobs freely under the new system?
No. Work Permits remain tied to the sponsoring employer. Transfers require MOM approval.
How long does the application take?
Typically 1 – 3 weeks once documents are complete.
Is medical insurance mandatory?
Yes. Employers must purchase approved health coverage for every Work Permit holder.
