Foreign job for Asians
Singapore
Living, working or studying in Singapore?
Just Landed helps you manage everyday life. Our Singapore Guide covers topics like visas, housing, jobs and finance. Join the Just Landed Community, get in touch with people like you and share your experiences. Most importantly, have fun!
Visas & Permits
Before planning to come to Singapore, make sure you understand your legal situation. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you may need an entry visa, residence permit and/or work permit. Read our guide about the legal entry requirements for Singapore and use the Just Landed forums to ask for help or advice.
Short Term Visa
Requirements and conditions
Short term visas are common for guests visiting Singapore for short periods of time. Factors influencing whether this is the correct visa to obtain include the visitor’s home country, duration of stay, and purpose of their visit.
Typically a short term visa can be obtained at the border. Citizens of some nationalities need to obtain a Social or Business Visa before entering. A list of these countries can be found athttp://www.ica.gov.sg
The visitor needs to satisfy the following requirements:
Work and Dependent Passes
Different passes and their privileges
A foreigner who wants to work in Singapore must first obtain a work pass. Depending on what type of work you are planning on doing, there are several different passes that are offered.
P and Q Pass/Employment PassThe first type of pass is called a P and Q Pass, or an Employment Pass (EP Pass). Put most simply, this is for those who will be earning a minimum of S$2,500, although other factors will be examined. This is typically for managers, executives, specialists, and foreign professionals. Dependent privileges can be applied for with the EP Pass. A dependency pass can be given to dependents of the EP Pass holder. Dependents are defined as a spouse or unmarried children under 21. These dependents can then apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) which would permit them to be employed in Singapore.
S PassThe S Pass is most common for a mid-level worker, who earns at least $1,800. Other factors such as qualifications, skills, experience, and job type play a role in obtaining this type of pass. The company is expected to pay a 25% quota and the individual is required to pay a $50 fee for the S Pass. You can apply for a Dependency Pass if your monthly salary is at least S$2,500. The only difference between this Dependency Pass and when dependents of an EP Pass holder get the Dependency Pass is that the dependents of an EP Pass holder can apply for an LOC, while dependents of the S Pass holder must apply for a P/Q/S/R Pass to work.
R Pass/Work PermitWorkers that do not qualify for the S or EP Pass may apply for an R Pass or Work Permit. Depending on the industry one is working in, the pass is awarded with varying levels of difficulty. The company is subject to paying a levy and other restrictions may apply depending on the industry. It is advised to check recent changes within a specific industry before traveling.
EntrePassEntrepreneurs who would like to start a business in Singapore can apply for the EntrePass. The business plan is reviewed by two agencies (MOM and SPRING). Business proposals for things like coffee shops, food courts, massage parlors and other similar activities will not be approved.
Training Employment PassTo receive training for upper level jobs in Singapore, such as an executive or specialist, the Training Employment Pass (TEP) would need to be obtained first. The company would be subject to paying a levy in cases like these. Similar to the Employment Pass, a minimum guaranteed salary of $2,500 is required.
Training Work PermitThe Training Work Permit (TWP) is extremely similar to the TEP, and is targeted towards those who don’t qualify for the TEP.
Student Pass
How to obtain one and what the benefits are
Once a student has been accepted to an educational institution for full-time study they can apply for a Student Pass.
This pass enables the student to remain in Singapore for the full duration of their studying, thus renewal is typically not required. More specific application requirements differ by specific schools and can be found at http://www.ica.gov.sg/ . It is important to note that if one simply desires to take a short course, which is less then the duration of stay granted on the Short Term Visa, a Student Pass is not required and one can simply take the course.
Permanent Residence
How to apply for permanent residence
To become a permanent resident of Singapore an Entry Permit must be obtained first. It is important one learns about the obligations associated with becoming a Permanent Resident before applying for the permit.
Not everyone can apply for this permit however, and it is limited to the following groups of people:
If Permanent Residence is granted, one is obliged to serve for the National Service (NS). It is a requirement that all male citizens and permanent residents register for the NS at 16.5 years of age. After turning 18, two years of service is required, followed by 40 days a year to maintain readiness. This continues until the age of 40 for non-officers and 50 for officers. The only exception to this are: males granted Permanent Residence through the Professions/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers or the Investors Scheme.
Singaporean Citizenship
Requirements and obligations
To become a Singaporean citizen you have to satisfy a number of requirements; this can often take a long period of time. After these are satisfied, other citizenships must be renounced before one can officially become a Singaporean.
There are several different types of people eligible to apply for citizenship:
Permanent Residents 21 and over
Natural children of Singapore citizen(s)For the Child
Both the citizenship application form and the Annex form, which are needed to apply for citizenship, can be found athttp://www.ica.gov.sg.
The Job Market
A look at Singapore’s foreigner friendly work environment
With a fast growing economy and a high standard of living, Singapore is one of the most attractive destinations for expatriate workers.
These foreigners account for one third of the Singaporean population, spreading across all facets of the economy, from labour to service to white collar jobs. Some benefits foreigners receive include open recruitment policies, low personal taxation, and an English speaking environment. The Singaporean economy has been one of sustained growth ever since it gained its’ independence in 1965. Singapore did however experience a recession in 2001, but after several policy changes the economy has since experienced even higher growth than before. Basic wages have also shown an increasing trend in recent years, with the unemployment rate remaining low. Singapore’s workers are dedicated and efficient, and are known for their high levels of productivity and good work attitude.
Typical industries and sectorsManufacturing is the largest sector in Singapore, with electronics making up over half of that sector. Singapore is also rated one of the most business-friendly economies in the world, with lots of opportunities for foreign expatriates in multi-national corporations. Foreigners are an important resource for Singaporean companies across all industries. Opportunities are traditionally available in the following sectors: trade, science and technology, industrial development, tourism, manufacturing, and engineering. High growth industries such as banking and finance and medical services and sciences are beginning to present increased opportunities for foreigners. Other high growth industries in Singapore include: chemicals, communications, healthcare, information technology, and maritime services.
The Job Hunt
Where to look for jobs in Singapore
There are many ways to find a job in Singapore by taking advantage of the many resources available to people worldwide. Below, we have compiled a list of resources that will aid you in your job search.
InternetThe best place to start when looking for a job in Singapore is the internet. Online job portals such as JobsCentral.com, or monster.com, are just a few of the many job websites with positions in Singapore advertised, and are a great way to get started. Along with browsing over hundreds of job postings, these online sites also help you create a resume and make applying for jobs easy. Aside from general job search websites, there are also sites specific to Singapore. The Singapore government has a directory where you can find various public service and other government jobs, just visithttps://app.vog.gov.sg/ . Also, many companies will post specific job vacancies on their respective websites.
NewspaperThe Straits Times is the leading English newspaper in Singapore, and publishes a supplement every weekend containing a section called ¨Classified Jobs¨. This supplement contains a wide variety of job opportunities in Singapore. The online equivalent can be found here,http://www.st701.com/ , although a subscription is necessary to view the classifieds.
Job FairsJob fairs are another great way to begin networking with companies located in Singapore and to find specific job vacancies. A large career fair is organized by the Singapore Professional Centre (SPC) every year. Visit Career Services Singapore athttp://www.careerseries.com.sg for more information.
Applying for a Job in Singapore
The do’s and don’ts
Non-Singapore citizens need to have secured a job offer before applying for a work permit. Therefore, the application process is important, but it is also a straightforward process.
All job applications begin with the submission of a curriculum vitae, or CV. This should include important details that are relevant to the position you are applying for, and be presented in an organized and professional manner. Most Singaporean employers prefer to read a CV in chronological order, meaning the applicant should list their previous work experience beginning with their first job and progressing to their most recent job last. Also, where a CV is required, it is useful to attach a passport-sized photograph.
The application process itself may vary depending on the company. Some companies require a CV, while others require an online application prepared using their specific guidelines. Whichever the case, be aware of deadlines and review your application twice before submission.
Most companies will also require an interview. For people living outside Singapore this will most likely be done over the phone, and then in person or via video-conferencing as further interviews are required. Singapore is recognized as a conservative society, so it is better to present a ¨reserved¨ image during the interview process.
Before planning to come to Singapore, make sure you understand your legal situation. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you may need an entry visa, residence permit and/or work permit. Read our guide about the legal entry requirements for Singapore and use the Just Landed forums to ask for help or advice.
Short Term Visa
Requirements and conditions
Short term visas are common for guests visiting Singapore for short periods of time. Factors influencing whether this is the correct visa to obtain include the visitor’s home country, duration of stay, and purpose of their visit.
Typically a short term visa can be obtained at the border. Citizens of some nationalities need to obtain a Social or Business Visa before entering. A list of these countries can be found athttp://www.ica.gov.sg
The visitor needs to satisfy the following requirements:
- A passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining
- Enough money to last the intended duration of stay
- Confirmed onward/return ticket
- Completion of the disembarkation/embarkation card
- A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, depending on which country you are coming from
- A valid Singapore visa (if required as per the above)
Work and Dependent Passes
Different passes and their privileges
A foreigner who wants to work in Singapore must first obtain a work pass. Depending on what type of work you are planning on doing, there are several different passes that are offered.
P and Q Pass/Employment PassThe first type of pass is called a P and Q Pass, or an Employment Pass (EP Pass). Put most simply, this is for those who will be earning a minimum of S$2,500, although other factors will be examined. This is typically for managers, executives, specialists, and foreign professionals. Dependent privileges can be applied for with the EP Pass. A dependency pass can be given to dependents of the EP Pass holder. Dependents are defined as a spouse or unmarried children under 21. These dependents can then apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) which would permit them to be employed in Singapore.
S PassThe S Pass is most common for a mid-level worker, who earns at least $1,800. Other factors such as qualifications, skills, experience, and job type play a role in obtaining this type of pass. The company is expected to pay a 25% quota and the individual is required to pay a $50 fee for the S Pass. You can apply for a Dependency Pass if your monthly salary is at least S$2,500. The only difference between this Dependency Pass and when dependents of an EP Pass holder get the Dependency Pass is that the dependents of an EP Pass holder can apply for an LOC, while dependents of the S Pass holder must apply for a P/Q/S/R Pass to work.
R Pass/Work PermitWorkers that do not qualify for the S or EP Pass may apply for an R Pass or Work Permit. Depending on the industry one is working in, the pass is awarded with varying levels of difficulty. The company is subject to paying a levy and other restrictions may apply depending on the industry. It is advised to check recent changes within a specific industry before traveling.
EntrePassEntrepreneurs who would like to start a business in Singapore can apply for the EntrePass. The business plan is reviewed by two agencies (MOM and SPRING). Business proposals for things like coffee shops, food courts, massage parlors and other similar activities will not be approved.
Training Employment PassTo receive training for upper level jobs in Singapore, such as an executive or specialist, the Training Employment Pass (TEP) would need to be obtained first. The company would be subject to paying a levy in cases like these. Similar to the Employment Pass, a minimum guaranteed salary of $2,500 is required.
Training Work PermitThe Training Work Permit (TWP) is extremely similar to the TEP, and is targeted towards those who don’t qualify for the TEP.
Student Pass
How to obtain one and what the benefits are
Once a student has been accepted to an educational institution for full-time study they can apply for a Student Pass.
This pass enables the student to remain in Singapore for the full duration of their studying, thus renewal is typically not required. More specific application requirements differ by specific schools and can be found at http://www.ica.gov.sg/ . It is important to note that if one simply desires to take a short course, which is less then the duration of stay granted on the Short Term Visa, a Student Pass is not required and one can simply take the course.
Permanent Residence
How to apply for permanent residence
To become a permanent resident of Singapore an Entry Permit must be obtained first. It is important one learns about the obligations associated with becoming a Permanent Resident before applying for the permit.
Not everyone can apply for this permit however, and it is limited to the following groups of people:
- The spouse of, and the unmarried children under 21 of a Singaporean or a Permanent Resident of Singapore
- The parents of a Singaporean
- A P/Q/S Pass holder
- Entrepreneurs/Investors
If Permanent Residence is granted, one is obliged to serve for the National Service (NS). It is a requirement that all male citizens and permanent residents register for the NS at 16.5 years of age. After turning 18, two years of service is required, followed by 40 days a year to maintain readiness. This continues until the age of 40 for non-officers and 50 for officers. The only exception to this are: males granted Permanent Residence through the Professions/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers or the Investors Scheme.
Singaporean Citizenship
Requirements and obligations
To become a Singaporean citizen you have to satisfy a number of requirements; this can often take a long period of time. After these are satisfied, other citizenships must be renounced before one can officially become a Singaporean.
There are several different types of people eligible to apply for citizenship:
- Permanent Residents at least 21 years old, who have been resident on a permanent basis for 2-6 years
- A Permanent Resident who has completed the National Service obligation
- The spouse of a Singaporean who has been both married and a Permanent Resident for at least 2 years
- A child born outside of Singapore with one of both parents holding Singaporean citizenship
Permanent Residents 21 and over
- Completion of the Citizen Application form and the Annex form
- Passport
- A recent passport photo
- Entry Permit Card/Re-entry permits
- A Birth Certificate and Identity Card
- Marriage Certificate/Divorce Certificate/Separation Deed
- Education Certificates
- Letter of employment from current employer and job details including pay, duration of employment and occupation
- Income tax notice for the previous 3 years
- History of CPF contributions for the last year
- If the proprietor/partner/director of a company the latest balance sheet/profit and loss account
- Death Certificate of any ex-spouses and proof of custody for and children from other marriages
- Birth Certificate and Passport for any of these children
- Entry Permit/Identity Card for children
- Certificates for change of name
- Foreign Citizenship Certificate and Foreign Identity Card
- Recent passport photo
- Identity Card, Birth Certificate, Passport
- Certificates for change of name
- Adoption Order
- Birth Certificate
- Singapore Citizenship Certificate
- Adoption Certificate
- Passports for other children
- Identity Card
- Marriage Certificate
- Educational Certificates
- Passport
- Death Certificate of any ex-spouses
- Divorce Certificate/Separation Deed of ex-spouses
- Custody Document
- Letter of employment from current employer and job details including pay, duration of employment and occupation
- Income tax notice for the previous 3 years
- If the proprietor/partner/director of a company the latest balance sheet/profit and loss account
- CPF contributions for the last year
Natural children of Singapore citizen(s)For the Child
- Birth Certificate
- Passport
- Recent Passport photo
- Completion of the Citizen Application form
- Identity Card
- Passport
- Marriage Certificate
Both the citizenship application form and the Annex form, which are needed to apply for citizenship, can be found athttp://www.ica.gov.sg.
The Job Market
A look at Singapore’s foreigner friendly work environment
With a fast growing economy and a high standard of living, Singapore is one of the most attractive destinations for expatriate workers.
These foreigners account for one third of the Singaporean population, spreading across all facets of the economy, from labour to service to white collar jobs. Some benefits foreigners receive include open recruitment policies, low personal taxation, and an English speaking environment. The Singaporean economy has been one of sustained growth ever since it gained its’ independence in 1965. Singapore did however experience a recession in 2001, but after several policy changes the economy has since experienced even higher growth than before. Basic wages have also shown an increasing trend in recent years, with the unemployment rate remaining low. Singapore’s workers are dedicated and efficient, and are known for their high levels of productivity and good work attitude.
Typical industries and sectorsManufacturing is the largest sector in Singapore, with electronics making up over half of that sector. Singapore is also rated one of the most business-friendly economies in the world, with lots of opportunities for foreign expatriates in multi-national corporations. Foreigners are an important resource for Singaporean companies across all industries. Opportunities are traditionally available in the following sectors: trade, science and technology, industrial development, tourism, manufacturing, and engineering. High growth industries such as banking and finance and medical services and sciences are beginning to present increased opportunities for foreigners. Other high growth industries in Singapore include: chemicals, communications, healthcare, information technology, and maritime services.
The Job Hunt
Where to look for jobs in Singapore
There are many ways to find a job in Singapore by taking advantage of the many resources available to people worldwide. Below, we have compiled a list of resources that will aid you in your job search.
InternetThe best place to start when looking for a job in Singapore is the internet. Online job portals such as JobsCentral.com, or monster.com, are just a few of the many job websites with positions in Singapore advertised, and are a great way to get started. Along with browsing over hundreds of job postings, these online sites also help you create a resume and make applying for jobs easy. Aside from general job search websites, there are also sites specific to Singapore. The Singapore government has a directory where you can find various public service and other government jobs, just visithttps://app.vog.gov.sg/ . Also, many companies will post specific job vacancies on their respective websites.
NewspaperThe Straits Times is the leading English newspaper in Singapore, and publishes a supplement every weekend containing a section called ¨Classified Jobs¨. This supplement contains a wide variety of job opportunities in Singapore. The online equivalent can be found here,http://www.st701.com/ , although a subscription is necessary to view the classifieds.
Job FairsJob fairs are another great way to begin networking with companies located in Singapore and to find specific job vacancies. A large career fair is organized by the Singapore Professional Centre (SPC) every year. Visit Career Services Singapore athttp://www.careerseries.com.sg for more information.
Applying for a Job in Singapore
The do’s and don’ts
Non-Singapore citizens need to have secured a job offer before applying for a work permit. Therefore, the application process is important, but it is also a straightforward process.
All job applications begin with the submission of a curriculum vitae, or CV. This should include important details that are relevant to the position you are applying for, and be presented in an organized and professional manner. Most Singaporean employers prefer to read a CV in chronological order, meaning the applicant should list their previous work experience beginning with their first job and progressing to their most recent job last. Also, where a CV is required, it is useful to attach a passport-sized photograph.
The application process itself may vary depending on the company. Some companies require a CV, while others require an online application prepared using their specific guidelines. Whichever the case, be aware of deadlines and review your application twice before submission.
Most companies will also require an interview. For people living outside Singapore this will most likely be done over the phone, and then in person or via video-conferencing as further interviews are required. Singapore is recognized as a conservative society, so it is better to present a ¨reserved¨ image during the interview process.
