WORK PERMIT APPLICATION SINGAPORE FOR FOREIGN & NTS WORKER
Singapore’s economy relies on a strong mix of local and foreign talent to meet critical manpower needs. Work Permits (WP) allow employers to hire personnel across key sectors such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, and the services sector. For certain industries, companies can also tap into the Non-Traditional Sources (NTS) framework, which provides access to workers in specific occupations from approved source countries under Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations.
At Nala Employment, we make the process of how to apply for a work permit in Singapore simple and compliant. From assessing quotas and levy rates to preparing documents, submitting work permit applications, and monitoring application status through MOM, we manage the details so your company can focus on operations and growth. Whether you need a Singapore work permit holder or specialised manpower under the NTS Occupation List, our consultants provide step-by-step support that ensures accuracy, efficiency, and peace of mind.
Why Apply for Work Permits with Nala Employment?
Discover the advantages of partnering with Nala Employment for your work permit application needs in Singapore.
Expert Knowledge of Regulations
Our consultants understand the latest MOM requirements for work permit Singapore applications. Whether you are hiring standard WP holders or NTS workers, we ensure that every submission aligns with quota, levy, and compliance standards.
High Efficiency
We know how valuable time is in business. By streamlining your application, we reduce back-and-forth with government agencies and deliver quicker results, so you can focus on manpower planning and operations.
Personalised Support
Every company’s needs are different. We adapt to your sector, job type, and workforce requirements, ensuring that the worker you hire is not just eligible but also suited to your business.
What is a Work Permit in Singapore?
A Work Permit (WP) is a type of a work pass issued to semi-skilled foreigners intending to work in specific sectors in Singapore. Work permits are generally valid for up to 2 years, subject to passport validity, employer quota, and levy payments. They are tied to a single employer and occupation, meaning if you change jobs, you must apply for a new permit.
Note that the term “work pass” is often used interchangeably with “work permit”, but a work pass is an umbrella term that also includes Employment Passes, S Passes, and other types of immigration passes. You can explore the distinction in detail here.
Eligible Occupations for Work Permit Holders
The jobs available to Work Permit holders from approved source countries vary by industry. Under the NTS Work Permit scheme, employers can hire workers for roles such as cooks, food processing workers, heavy vehicle drivers, housekeeping workers, and manufacturing workers. Roles such as cable splicers and sheet metal workers fall under manufacturing workers, while roles like pastry-cooks are categorised under food processing. Each occupation has specific requirements depending on the company’s sector and the necessary licences.
For the full and updated list, please see the official NTS Worker Occupation List.
Requirements for a Work Permit Application in Singapore
When applying for a Work Permit in Singapore, both employers and workers must meet specific conditions set by the Ministry of Manpower. Employers can submit their foreign worker’s Work Permit application online, either directly or through an employment agent (EA).
For Foreign Workers
- Consent for Application: The worker must give written consent before the employer or appointed employment agent can proceed to apply for a work permit.
- Vaccination: You must be fully vaccinated with WHO EUL vaccines before entry.
- Vaccination Records Verification: Foreigners must verify their overseas vaccination records in Singapore’s National Immunisation Registry (NIR) at a local clinic.
- Medical Examination: Within 2 weeks of arrival, the worker must undergo a medical examination by a Singapore-registered doctor or MOM-appointed Anchor Operator. This applies especially to those eligible for the Primary Care Plan (PCP).
For Employers
- Levy and Quota: Your employer must comply with MOM’s quota requirements and pay the monthly levy rate, which varies depending on the industry, number of WP holders, and whether the worker is classified as higher skilled.
- Medical Insurance: Employers must provide medical insurance for all WP holders, meeting MOM’s coverage standards.
- Primary Care Plan (PCP): For sectors such as construction, marine shipyard, process, and for dormitory-based workers, you need to purchase the PCP.
- Security Bond: A security bond is required for all non-Malaysian work permit holders. Employers must ensure the bond details are lodged with MOM and effective before the worker’s arrival.
- Settling-In Programme (SIP): Non-Malaysian Work Permit holders working in the manufacturing, construction, marine shipyard, or process (CMP) sectors who are working in Singapore for the first time are required to attend the Settling-in Programme (SIP). The application must be submitted once the worker’s arrival date is confirmed.
How Can I Apply for a Work Permit in Singapore?
Many employers struggle with delays, rejections, or confusion when navigating MOM’s rules on quotas, levies, and required documents. At Nala Employment, we address these pain points directly by guiding you step by step, ensuring that every part of the process is handled correctly the first time.
1. Initial Consultation
We assess your business needs, industry requirements, and quota eligibility. This ensures that your application is realistic and aligned with your manpower plan.
2. Document Preparation and Submission
Leveraging our in-depth understanding of work permit regulations, we prepare and verify required forms and documents, from the worker’s details to employer documentation. Our proficiency enables us to expertly navigate complex legal and procedural frameworks to ensure compliance and accuracy.
3. Application Monitoring
Once filed, we track your application status closely, manage follow-up with MOM, and help you prepare for the next steps.
4. In-Principle Approval and Issuance
If approved, MOM issues an In-Principle Approval (IPA). We guide you through final steps such as medicals, security bond activation, and insurance checks until the pass is issued and the worker is cleared to start.
Processing Time and Validity
Most Work Permit applications are processed within 1 week, although complex cases may take up to 3 weeks if additional information is required. Permits are usually valid for up to 2 years, but are always tied to the employment contract, passport validity, and levy compliance. Renewal should be done well before expiry to avoid disruption if you wish to continue to work in Singapore without interruption.
Our Service Package
Nala Employment offers end-to-end packages to support your recruitment and work permit needs. Whether you are hiring standard Work Permit holders or applying for NTS workers, our services include eligibility checks, document preparation, submission, and follow-up until the pass is issued. We also provide post-approval guidance on renewals and compliance to ensure your workforce remains stable.
Contact us to explore which package fits your business needs best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work Permit Singapore
1. What is the difference between an S Pass and a Work Permit?
The S Pass is for mid-level technical individuals earning at least S$3,300 monthly, while the Work Permit is for semi-skilled workers with no minimum salary. Unlike WP holders, S Pass holders may eventually bring family members to Singapore.
2. What is the difference between a Work Permit and an Employment Pass?
The Employment Pass (EP) is a work visa for highly skilled foreigners earning a minimum qualifying salary of at least S$5,600 per month. Work Permits (WP), on the other hand, are for semi-skilled workers in specific sectors under MOM’s framework.
3. What happens if a Work Permit expires?
Employers should renew permits 7–12 weeks before expiry. If the permit lapses, you may request a late renewal, but penalties can apply. It is always safer to renew early.
4. What support does Nala Employment provide after a Work Permit is issued?
Our role does not end with issuance. We assist with renewals, keep you informed about regulatory changes, and help resolve post-placement issues to ensure both employers and workers are supported.
5. Can a Work Permit holder change jobs in Singapore?
Generally, Work Permits are tied to a single employer and job role. If you want to change jobs, you must cancel the existing permit and have your new employer apply for a fresh one. Nala Employment can guide both employers and workers through this transition to ensure compliance with MOM rules.
6. Can Nala Employment assist with work permits for non-Malaysian foreign workers?
Yes. We can assist with work permit applications for foreign workers from MOM-approved source countries. Please note that the list of approved countries varies by sector. To confirm eligibility and receive tailored guidance, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our team.
