Singapore’s Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, Work Permit, EntrePass, and Work Holiday Pass fall under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990 (EFMA). Each is issued by the Controller of Work Passes, acting under the authority of the Minister for Manpower. Every application undergoes rigorous scrutiny to ensure it aligns with Singapore’s manpower objectives — [...]
The Employment Pass (EP) is Singapore’s principal work authorisation for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. It is administered by the Controller of Work Passes, under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990 (EFMA). Under this Act, a foreigner is defined as anyone who is not a Singapore citizen or permanent resident. No person may employ [...]
As Singapore advances into 2026, a new set of statutory, payroll, and tax changes are poised to reshape how employers and workers manage compliance. From the increased CPF Ordinary Wage Ceiling to heightened CPF contributions for platform workers and the expiry of several key tax incentives, businesses will need to review payroll structures, employee costs, [...]
Imagine planning a landmark event for your company or a personal milestone like a wedding. You search online and find the perfect photographer or makeup artist whose portfolio is simply stunning. They’re based overseas but are available for your date in Singapore. Before you sign that contract, stop. A critical new advisory from Singapore's authorities [...]
Every nation walks a fine line: how do you attract the global talent needed to fuel economic growth without displacing your local workforce? It’s a strategic balancing act that shapes a country's future. Singapore, renowned for its meticulous approach to talent and economic planning, is once again fine-tuning its framework. Recent announcements from the Ministry [...]
A job is being left. The reason is not important. As loose ends are tied up, a question is often asked. What about banked but unused vacation days? It is wondered if they disappear. Or could a cash payment be made for them? Today, a deep dive is being taken into this topic. The details [...]
We rely on credentials and qualifications, especially when hiring across international borders. This trust is the backbone of a fair and functional global workforce. However, a recent and revealing case from Singapore shows just how fragile that trust can be. The case involves two individuals, a series of sophisticated forged documents, and a deliberate scheme [...]
Singapore consistently strives to foster a supportive environment for its working parents. Specifically, the nation recognizes the deep importance of family bonding and shared parental responsibility. A key component of this effort is the Shared Parental Leave (SPL) scheme. Notably, this allows working fathers to share a portion of their wife's Government-Paid Maternity Leave (GPML). [...]
The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is a visa that allows foreigners to stay in Singapore for up to two years. It is typically issued to the spouses, parents, children, or dependent siblings of Singapore citizens or permanent residents. Eligibility requirements To be eligible for an LTVP, you must meet the following requirements: Be [...]
As a business owner in Singapore, you may be eager to get your new foreign worker up to speed on their job scope before they officially commence employment. However, it's crucial to understand the legal implications of doing so. The Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA) governs the employment of foreign workers in Singapore, and [...]