Work Permit
What Is a Work Permit?
A Work Permit is a pass that lets skilled and semi-skilled migrant workers work legally in Singapore. Issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), it’s mainly for industries that need foreign workers to keep things running smoothly.
Who Needs a Work Permit?
If you’re working in any of these industries, you’ll need one:
✔ Construction – Builders, site workers, and technical specialists
✔ Manufacturing – Factory operators and machine technicians
✔ Marine Shipyard – Welders, riggers, and ship maintenance workers
✔ Process Industry – Workers in oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors
✔ Services Sector – Certain jobs like cleaning and food services
Unlike some other work passes, there’s no minimum salary requirement, but your employer has to meet quota and levy rules.
What Else Should You Know?
🔹 Valid for up to 2 years (as long as your employer meets the conditions)
🔹 Can be renewed if you’re still needed
🔹 Your employer applies for you – You can’t apply on your own
🔹 Not a PR pathway – Unlike S Pass or Employment Pass holders, Work Permit holders aren’t eligible for permanent residency
If you need a Work Permit, we can help! Let Trinity Pass handle everything for you.
Do You Qualify for a Work Permit in Singapore?
To qualify for a Singapore Work Permit, there are a few requirements depending on your job and the industry you're in. Work Permits are typically for low-skilled and semi-skilled workers in fields like construction, manufacturing, marine shipyards, process industries, and services.
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Job Type: You’ll need to be in an eligible low-skilled or semi-skilled role.
- Employer Sponsorship: A Singapore-registered company will need to apply for you.
- Industry-Specific Rules: Different industries have their own quotas and requirements.
- Age Requirement: You need to be at least 18 years old.
- Valid Passport & Documents: You might also need to show proof of your qualifications for the role.
Since Work Permits are tied to employers, you can’t apply on your own - your employer will take care of it for you.
Unsure if you qualify for a work permit in Singapore?
Let Trinity Pass help you check your eligibility and walk you through the process
How We Make Your Work Permit Application Easy
We take care of the hard work, so you don’t have to stress over the details. Here’s how it works:
- Free Consultation – We check your eligibility and answer your questions
- Paperwork Done for You – We make sure everything is in order
- Application Submission – We handle the filing with MOM
- Updates & Support – We keep you informed at every step
- Pass Collection – Get your Work Permit without the hassle
What Documents Do You Need for Your Work Permit?
Getting your Work Permit approved starts with the right documents. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Passport copy
- Employer’s business registration details
- In-principle approval letter (for new applications)
- Medical check-up report (if required)
Avoid These Common Work Permit Mistakes
Even a small mistake can slow down your application or, in the worst case, get it rejected. To help keep things on track, here are a few things to watch out for:
Missing or Incorrect Documents:
Make sure all your documents are correct and submitted on time. Small errors, like missing signatures or wrong details, can cause delays. It’s always a good idea to double-check everything before sending it in.
Exceeding Employer Quota Limits:
There are limits on how many workers each employer can hire under a Work Permit, depending on the industry. If your employer exceeds these limits, your application could be rejected. It’s helpful for your employer to stay on top of the quotas for your industry.
Late Levy Payments:
Employers are required to make levy payments on time for each Work Permit holder. If these payments are late, it can delay your application or result in penalties. Staying on top of these payments will help avoid any issues down the line.
By keeping an eye on these things, you’ll make sure your application moves through smoothly and quickly.
How Much Does a Work Permit in Singapore Cost?
A Work Permit in Singapore costs S$35 for both the application and the issuance.
So, you'll pay S$35 when you submit the application, and another S$35 when the permit is issued.
The total cost of S$70 is usually covered by the employer or an authorised employment agent (EA).