Singapore: Foreign Workers & Strict Pass Rules

2026-08-17

Minister’s Remarks: Foreign Talent Supports Economy

Gan Kim Yong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, delivered a speech on manpower in Parliament. Amid slowing growth of the local labour force, Singapore still requires diverse foreign manpower to fill industry‑wide labour gaps.

“We need skilled foreign workers to fill critical manpower gaps, help our companies build new capabilities and support economic growth. This will ultimately create more jobs for Singaporeans.”

Official statistics show that local PMET (Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians) employment has increased by 308,000 over the past decade. In contrast, the number of EP and S Pass holders rose by only 24,000, accounting for less than one‑quarter of Singapore’s total foreign workforce.

Regulatory Stance: Tighter Pass Policies to Stay

While welcoming foreign talent, the government will prudently control the volume and industry concentration of EP and S Pass holders to prevent competition with local workers. Work Permit (WP) holders are regulated via foreign worker levies and quota systems.

It is clear that stricter assessment for EP and S Pass applications will continue. Those planning to work in Singapore are advised to plan their applications well in advance.

Policy Updates: Higher Thresholds (2027‑2028)

A set of new foreign manpower policies will take effect, including revised salary criteria and higher levies:

Employment Pass (EP)

From January 2027, the minimum qualifying salary for new applications will rise to S$6,000. The threshold for the financial services sector will be S$6,600. Renewals will follow the new criteria starting in 2028.

S Pass

From January 2027, the minimum salary requirement for new applications will increase to S$3,600, and S$4,000 for the financial services sector. Renewals will comply with the updated rules from 2028 onwards.

Work Permit (WP)

Starting in 2028, the levy for unskilled marine‑sector foreign workers will go up by S$100 to S$600. The levy for unskilled manufacturing‑sector workers will increase by S$150.

Application Tip: Professional Support Reduces Re‑jection Risks

With continuously tightening policies and increasingly rigorous review standards, self‑application may lead to delays or rejections due to incomplete documentation or misunderstanding of regulations.

Established in 2013, Singapore Skyline Business is duly registered with the Ministry of Manpower and holds valid qualifications for work‑pass applications. Drawing on extensive hands‑on experience, our team handles applications and renewals for EntrePass, EP, SP, WP, Self‑sponsored EP, DP and LTVP. We keep abreast of the latest review requirements to help applicants avoid common pitfalls. For enquiries, you may reach Skyline Business via WeChat.

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