Contents are accurate as at time of writing.

Work Permit (WP) in Singapore: Sector-Specific Guidelines and Quota Requirements
What is a Work Permit (WP) in Singapore?
A Work Permit (WP) is an employment pass issued by Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM), allowing foreign workers to be legally employed in specific industries. It is designed for semi-skilled workers from approved countries, ensuring that businesses in labor-intensive sectors can hire foreign manpower to supplement their workforce.
Employers must meet sector-specific requirements, adhere to foreign worker quotas, and pay levies to hire Work Permit holders. Understanding these regulations is essential for compliance and operational efficiency.
Sector-Specific Work Permit Requirements
1. Construction Sector
The construction industry in Singapore relies heavily on foreign workers due to the labor-intensive nature of the job.
Key Requirements:
• Workers must be from MOM-approved countries (e.g., Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar).
• Workers must attend the Settling-in Programme (SIP) if they are first-time Work Permit holders.
• Employers must provide accommodation that meets MOM’s housing requirements.
Quota & Levy:
• The manpower quota for the construction sector is 1 local worker for every 7 foreign workers.
• Monthly levy ranges from SGD 300 to SGD 950 per worker, depending on the skill level and quota allocation.
2. Manufacturing Sector
The manufacturing sector covers industries such as electronics, chemicals, and precision engineering.
Key Requirements:
• Work Permit is available for workers from Malaysia, China, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan.
• Employers must meet MOM’s occupational safety requirements for foreign workers.
Quota & Levy:
• The manpower quota is 1 local worker for every 5 foreign workers.
• Levy rates range from SGD 250 to SGD 650 per worker.
3. Marine Shipyard Sector
Singapore’s marine and offshore industry depends on Work Permit holders for shipbuilding, repair, and engineering roles.
Key Requirements:
• Eligible countries include Bangladesh, India, China, Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
• Employers must follow stringent workplace safety and housing regulations.
Quota & Levy:
• No quota restrictions, but employers must meet occupational health and safety requirements.
• Monthly levy ranges from SGD 300 to SGD 600 per worker.
4. Services Sector
The services sector includes industries like retail, food & beverage (F&B), cleaning, and security.
Key Requirements:
• Only workers from Malaysia, China, Hong Kong, Macau, South Korea, and Taiwan are eligible for Work Permits in this sector.
• Employers must provide proper training and accommodation for workers.
Quota & Levy:
• The manpower quota is 1 local worker for every 3 foreign workers.
• Levy rates range from SGD 300 to SGD 800 per worker, depending on dependency ratio ceilings.
5. Process Sector
The process industry includes pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and semiconductors.
Key Requirements:
• Work Permit holders must come from Bangladesh, India, China, Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
• Employers must meet strict process safety regulations.
Quota & Levy:
• 1 local worker per 5 foreign workers.
• Monthly levy ranges from SGD 250 to SGD 750 per worker.
Foreign Worker Quota and Levy System in Singapore
The quota system controls the number of foreign workers a company can hire, ensuring a balanced workforce. The foreign worker levy is a pricing mechanism to regulate the inflow of foreign manpower and encourage businesses to hire skilled local workers.
Sector-Wise Work Permit Quota (Dependency Ratio Ceiling – DRC)
Sector Quota (Foreign:Local Ratio)
Construction 7:1
Manufacturing 5:1
Marine Shipyard No quota
Services 3:1
Process Industry 5:1
Work Permit Levy Rates (As of 2024)
Sector Basic Skilled Worker (SGD) Higher Skilled Worker (SGD)
Construction 650 – 950 300 – 700
Manufacturing 450 – 650 250 – 450
Marine Shipyard 400 – 600 300 – 500
Services 500 – 800 300 – 600
Process 500 – 750 250 – 500
Employers who hire higher-skilled workers (e.g., with relevant trade certifications) pay lower levies and may benefit from an extended Work Permit duration.
Compliance and Best Practices for Work Permit Holders
1. Housing Requirements
Employers must provide proper accommodation that meets MOM’s guidelines. This includes:
✔️ Approved dormitories
✔️ Clean and safe living conditions
✔️ Proper ventilation and hygiene standards
2. Medical Insurance & Healthcare
Employers must purchase medical insurance for each Work Permit holder with a minimum coverage of SGD 15,000 per year.
3. Salary and Working Conditions
✔️ Employers must pay salaries on time and in full.
✔️ Workers must be given adequate rest days, as per MOM guidelines.
✔️ No illegal deductions from wages.
4. Work Permit Renewals and Cancellations
✔️ Renewal: Apply at least 2 months before expiry.
✔️ Cancellation: Must be done within 7 days after employment ends.
✔️ Repatriation: Workers must return to their home country after cancellation unless they switch to another employer.
Conclusion
The Work Permit (WP) in Singapore is essential for industries that require semi-skilled foreign manpower. However, hiring foreign workers comes with strict regulations regarding quotas, levies, housing, and compliance. Understanding sector-specific requirements helps employers plan workforce strategies effectively and stay compliant with MOM regulations.
By keeping up-to-date with quota changes, levy adjustments, and compliance guidelines, businesses can optimize Work Permit hiring strategies while maintaining a legally sound workforce in Singapore.
Would you like further insights on MOM updates or specific sector case studies?