Working in Singapore
The vibrancy of Singapore’s work culture means the sky is the limit for any young professional.
Besides, our pro-business government invests in a modern infrastructure and training its workforce for the long-term. Those keen on building themselves up in an established industry, or making waves in growth industries, will find their niche here.
Working Conditions
Most companies in Singapore operate on a five-day work week, based on the legal standard of 44 hours a week. Vacation leave varies from seven to 14 days, usually increasing with length of service or seniority. Contracts often include two to three weeks of paid sick leave and hospitalisation leave.
Salaries are very competitive in Singapore and you may enjoy additional perks such as housing, transport and education allowances, as well as stock options. A fixed bonus is given at the end of the year, equivalent to one month’s salary. In addition, variable bonuses are sometimes declared, depending on the company and individual’s performance.
To sweeten the deal, many companies provide their employees with other incentives such as recreational facilities and holiday subsidies.
One of the main attractions for expatriates is Singapore’s personal income tax rates which are among the lowest in the world. If you have been in Singapore for at least 183 days in a calendar year, you are considered a tax resident and will be taxed on all income that is incidental to employment in Singapore. Non-residents, who are in Singapore for less than 183 days a year, will be taxed only on income earned in Singapore. To find out more information and tax rates, visit the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore website.
Professional Resources
The Singapore International Chamber of Commerce is an excellent information bank on industries and employment trends. You may also call on the other international chambers of commerce in Singapore representing countries such as the US, Germany, Japan and Spain, for professional resources and assistance.
For further networking and career improvement opportunities, refer to the Career Development section.
There are 84 trade unions and professional organisations that promote industrial relations between companies and workers. Two major entities are the Singapore National Employers’ Federation and the Singapore Labour Foundation.
Application Procedures
To work in Singapore, you need to hold a valid Employment Pass. There are four types of Employment Passes (P1, P2, Q1 and S). For eligibility and details on the different passes, please visit the Ministry of Manpower website.
To apply for an Employment Pass, a local sponsor is required, usually the employer.
To check if you qualify for an Employment/S Pass, please take the Employment/S Pass Self-Assessment Test.
Another pass, the Personalised Employment Pass, allows a foreigner to stay on in Singapore for six months, even after he decides to leave his company to seek new employment. The pass is granted on the strength of an EP holder's individual merits.
If you have yet to secure a job, you may apply for the Employment Pass Eligibility Certificate (EPEC), which grants you a Social Visit Pass valid for a year, giving you time to look for employment in Singapore. All EPEC applications have to be submitted online. Then check out Contact Singapore's job portal to start your job hunt.