EuroCham would like to share with you the response we have received from the Foreign Workforce Policy department of MOM as a follow up on the joint statement dated 19 March 2021 that EuroCham sent to then-Minister for Manpower Mrs Josephine Teo and the engagement we had on the 8th of April in the presence of multiple European National Business groups. Earlier EuroCham also conducted a survey with close to 300 participants.
These initiatives were an opportunity for the European community to give feedback to MOM’s announcement on work arrangements for Dependant’s Pass (DP) holders. The response was positive news, in so far as MOM has now published the details on requirements for DP holders to work.
- Dependant’s Pass holders who get a Work Permit will have the Work Permit’s validity period tied to that of the Dependant’s Pass. As dependants of valid pass holders, they will not be subject to source requirements, six-monthly medical examination, security bond and pregnancy restrictions.
MOM responded by email to EuroCham that Singapore’s work pass policies have been and will continue to be adjusted from time to time. Even so, they remain open and facilitative towards foreigners with varying skills that complement the local workforce. Except for years where the economy contracted sharply, the population of work pass holders in Singapore has remained largely stable. Applications for different work passes are processed in a timely manner. Where relevant, MOM has also introduced enhancements. For example, MOM launched the Capability Transfer Programme in 2017 to bring in foreign specialists for short durations to facilitate the transfer of global capabilities into Singapore, and the Tech Pass in 2020 to facilitate fast-growing tech companies and established tech talent to enter and anchor themselves in Singapore.To support work pass holders with families, those that meet the criteria may also bring them in as dependants. The vast majority of DP holders are in Singapore to accompany the work pass holder and do not apply for a LOC to work here. For those that have applied for the LOC, MOM appreciates their interest to continue working and welcomes their employers to apply for a suitable work pass for them. As MOM explained during the discussion, they need not do so immediately, but only when their existing LOCs expire. To be consistent in the administration of work passes, they will be subject to the prevailing criteria for all applicants. The same approach will apply to dependents who wish to work in Singapore in future. For DP holders applying for the work permit, while levies and quotas will apply, they will not be subject to source requirements, the six-monthly medical examination, security bond and pregnancy restrictions. Taking in chambers’ feedback, we have also published details on requirements for DP holders to work on MOM’s website.
Many existing LOC holders already meet prevailing work pass criteria. Nonetheless, MOM will be pleased to facilitate the transition as needed. Firms can call MOM’s hotline at 6438 5122 for assistance or reach out to the relevant sector agencies such as the Economic Development Board or Enterprise Singapore. As for the concerns regarding international schools, the Economic Development Board is already in touch with a number of them. MOM has also sent the Economic Development Board your feedback. EuroCham members are encouraged to connect with Workforce Singapore should they wish to find out more about accessing local jobseekers.
Should you require any further assistance or clarifications on the new work arrangements for DP holders, we are more than happy to assist.
EuroCham will continue to be a powerful voice to promote the interests of our members from the European Business community.
