Companies in Singapore face increased barriers to hiring foreign workers and increased scrutiny of employers’ track records for the hiring and training of skilled Singaporeans, following the introduction of new salary and qualification criteria. The measures aim to “ensure a strong Singaporean core” by increasing employment opportunities for Singaporean nationals in professional, management, executive and technician (PMET) roles.
Employment Pass (EP) qualifications and salary criteria. The minimum qualifying salary for new EP applicants increased to SG$4,500 on 1 Sep 2020, and will approximately double for applicants in their forties. The increased salary threshold will apply to EP renewal applicants from 1 May 2021. The EP is a type of work permit that allows foreigners to work in PMET roles.
EP applicants for financial services sector roles. The minimum qualifying salary for new EP applicants in the financial service sector increased to SG$4,500 on 1 Sep 2020, and a further increase to SG$5,000 is slated for 1 Dec 2020. An increased qualifying salary will be required for EP applicants in their forties. The new minimum salary criteria will apply from 1 May 2021 to renewal applicants. This is the first time a sector-specific qualifying salary has been introduced.
S Pass applicants and salary criteria. The minimum qualifying salary for new S Pass applicants will increase to SG$2,500 from1 Oct 2020 and will apply to renewal applicants from 1 May 2021. An increased minimum salary will be imposed for older and more experienced S Pass applicants. The S Pass allows mid-level skilled staff to work in Singapore.
Evaluation of employer hiring and training practices. Employers applying for EP and S Passes will be evaluated with regard to their track records for hiring and training Singaporean nationals in PMET roles, and for any previous discrimination against qualified Singaporeans.
Fair Consideration Framework
Africa