Question 1

. Can S Pass holders apply for permanent residency independently?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, although approval depends on employment stability and contribution to Singapore.

Question 2

Am I eligible for maternity leave if I adopt a child?

Accepted Answer

No, you are not eligible for maternity leave.

However, you are entitled to adoption leave if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Question 3

Any Difference in Quota for Work Permits Among all Sectors?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. The foreign worker quota varies according to the sectors with industry specific rules and regulations.

- Construction

- Manufacturing

- Marine Shipyard

- Process

Service

Question 4

Are Employers Required to Bear the Pregnancy Related Medical Costs incurred by their S Pass Holders?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

From 1 April 2018, employers are no longer required to bear the pregnancy-related medical costs incurred by their S Pass holders. This is to achieve a better balance of the medical obligations between employers and S Pass holders.

However for S Pass holders covered under the Employment Act, employers must still:

- Bear the medical consultation fees, which refers to the component of the medical bill that states “consultation” or “consultation fee”.

Provide maternity benefits.

- Bear the medical consultation fees, which refers to the component of the medical bill that states "consultation" or "consultation fee".

Provide maternity benefits.

Question 5

Are employers required to buy medical insurance for Employment Pass (EP) holders?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. Employers are not legally required to provide medical insurance for Employment Pass (EP) holders.

However, many employers choose to offer medical insurance as part of the employment package to attract and retain talent.

Question 6

Are foreigners eligible for maternity leave?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Is maternity leave applicable to foreign female employees? Yes, as long as foreign employees meet the eligibility criteria.

Question 7

Are S Pass holders entitled to employee benefits?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. They are entitled to employment rights under Singapore labour laws.

Question 8

As an EP (Employment Pass) holder, how I can update my contact details?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

You can update your contact details using EP Online.

Question 9

As an S Pass holder, how I can update my contact details?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

You can update your contact details using EP Online.

Question 10

Calculator for foreign worker quota?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Use the quota calculator below to plan how many Work Permit and S Pass holders your company can hire based on your sector and workforce.

Note: If you’re checking for services sector, please remember to choose the correct year, e.g. 2026.

Copy & paste the below link to calculate foreign worker quota:

https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-worker/foreign-worker-levy/calculate-foreign-worker-quota

Question 11

Can a (EP holder) employment pass holder work in multiple jobs?

Accepted Answer

No, an Employment Pass holder (EP) can only work for one employer at a time.

All work pass holders must only work for their designated employer. They must not take on additional jobs or engage in activities to earn additional income in Singapore. This also applies to training pass holders doing on-the-job training.

Question 12

Can a company sponsor its own director for Employment Pass?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, company directors can apply for an EP through their company.

Question 13

Can a foreign entrepreneur apply for Employment Pass through their own company?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. Foreign business owners may apply for an Employment Pass through their Singapore company if the business demonstrates genuine operations and economic contribution.

Question 14

Can a newly incorporated company apply for an Employment Pass?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, but MOM will review whether the company has genuine business operations and a credible hiring need.

Question 15

Can a Work Permit (WP) holder work for more than one employer at the same time?

Accepted Answer

No, a Work Permit holder can only work for one employer at a time.

All work pass holders must only work for their designated employer. They must not take on additional jobs or engage in activities to earn additional income in Singapore. This also applies to training pass holders doing on-the-job training.

Question 16

Can an (EP holder) employment pass holder work for more than one employer at the same time?

Accepted Answer

No, an EP holder can only work for one employer at a time.

All work pass holders must only work for their designated employer. They must not take on additional jobs or engage in activities to earn additional income in Singapore. This also applies to training pass holders doing on-the-job training.

Question 17

Can an employer dismiss a pregnant employee from her job?

Accepted Answer

When an female employee is pregnant, it is a sensitive period for her and her family. For many, it is a life-changing experience.

The law recognises that it is wrong to add to the burden and stress of pregnancy. Hence, pregnant employees have certain maternity protections during this period.

Dismissing an employee because of pregnancy is against the law. Employers should treat pregnant employees fairly and assess them on their merits and the requirements of the job. If a decision is taken to dismiss an employee, it must be based on relevant and objective performance criteria, and after a thorough inquiry.

Furthermore, a pregnant employee has maternity protection if she has been at her job for at least 3 months. This means that if a pregnant employee is dismissed without sufficient cause, or is retrenched, the employer is still required to pay her maternity benefits.

If you have not been paid your maternity leave benefits, you can approach MOM for assistance.

Question 18

Can an Employment Pass holder be appointed as company secretary?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. An EP holder who is also the sole director cannot act as the company secretary.

Question 19

Can an Employment Pass holder change employers without leaving Singapore?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. The new employer must obtain approval for a new Employment Pass before employment begins.

Question 20

Can an Employment Pass holder work as a company shareholder?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. EP holders may own shares in companies, but their primary employment must remain with their sponsoring employer.

Question 21

Can an Employment Pass Holder Work for More than one Employer at the Same Time?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No, an Employment Pass holder (EP) can only work for one employer at a time.

All work pass holders must only work for their designated employer. They must not take on additional jobs or engage in activities to earn additional income in Singapore. This also applies to training pass holders doing on-the-job training.

Question 22

Can an EP application be submitted before company incorporation?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. The company must first be legally incorporated in Singapore before it can sponsor an Employment Pass application.

Question 23

Can companies apply for multiple S Pass holders?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, provided the company remains within its quota limits.

Question 24

Can Dependant (DP) of Employment Pass (EP) holder work with multiple Employers (jobs)?

Accepted Answer

No. The Dependant Pass (EP) holder of Employment Pass (EP) is allowed to work only with Letter Of Consent (LOC). The LOC holder is not allowed to work multiple Employers (jobs). The Employer should apply for LOC. After obtaining the approval of LOC, the DP holder can start to work. The LOC is tied up with the validity of the EP holder.

Question 25

Can Employer deduct the SDL (Skills Development Levy) from Employee’s salary?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No.

Employer must contribute or pay SDL for all employees working in Singapore, including:

employees employed on permanent, part-time, casual and temporary basis
foreign employees on Work Permits, S Pass, Employment Pass, Personalised Employment Pass holders and LOC (Letter Of Consent) holders.

The SDL for foreign employees is in addition to the Foreign Worker Levy payable to the Ministry of Manpower.

Click here to learn more about SDL

Question 26

Can employer designate driving as a secondary job function?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Designate driving as a secondary job function

You can designate workers to drive as a secondary job function. This is only for workers in the Construction, Process and Marine shipyard sectors.

What are the requirements

You must fulfil all of the following:

- Worker holds a valid driving licence recognised by the Traffic Police.

- The driving role must only take up a minor part of the worker’s productive hours.

The number of workers that you can designate to drive cannot be more than 20% of your firm’s total workforce.

If approved, these drivers are only allowed to drive cars or light good vehicles, i.e. Class 3 licence. They cannot be deployed to drive Class 4 vehicles, which include tipper trucks or concrete trucks, as these are meant for dedicated, full-time drivers.

How to apply

You can re-designate your existing workers using the “Change Worker’s Occupation” function on WP Online. For new workers, you can apply for their work permits under one of the following occupations (depending on the sector they are working in):

- Construction Worker-cum-Driver.

- Process Maintenance & Construction Worker-cum-Driver.

Marine Trades Worker-cum-Driver.

Question 27

Can employer of foreign domestic worker (FDW) appeal against MOM fine?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, an employer of a Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) can appeal against a fine imposed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

For pass holders (work pass holders or dependants) who meet any of these conditions, business employers or employment agents can use this form to appeal for a refund of the overstaying fines:

• Pass holders have obtained legal stay from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

• There was a delay in the processing of the pass holders’ pass extension requests.

The appeal must be submitted to MOM within the stipulated deadline stated in the notice, together with supporting documents and a clear explanation of the circumstances. MOM will review the case based on its merits, including whether there were valid reasons, mitigating factors, or evidence of compliance efforts.

However, approval is not guaranteed. Employers should ensure the appeal is well-supported, timely, and factually justified to improve the chances of a favourable outcome.

Click here to learn more about Appeal To Refund MOM Fine

Question 28

Can employer of foreign worker appeal against MOM fine?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes.

For pass holders (work pass holders or dependants) who meet any of these conditions, business employers or employment agents can use this form to appeal for a refund of the overstaying fines:

• Pass holders have obtained legal stay from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

• There was a delay in the processing of the pass holders’ pass extension requests.

Click here to learn more about Appeal To Refund MOM Fine

Question 29

Can Employer Refuse to Aaccept my Resignation?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. Employer cannot reject employee’s resignation. Employee has the right to resign at any time, by serving the required notice or by paying compensation to the employer in lieu of notice. Note: It is an offence for employers to disallow employees to leave their job.

Question 30

Can employer refuse to cancel EP?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Employees have the right to resign at any time, by serving notice or by compensating the employer with salary-in-lieu. As a work pass is meant for employment, employers must cancel an employee’s Employment Pass (EP), S Pass or Work Permit within 1 week after employment ends. Employers cannot use the refusal to cancel the work pass as a threat or retaliation for employment or contract disputes. If there is a dispute, both employers and employees should try to resolve it amicably or seek mediation. For salary disputes, you can approach TADM for assistance. If your employer refuses to cancel your work pass after you have resigned and served your notice, you can contact MOM for assistance.

Question 31

Can employer reject my resignation?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. Employer cannot reject employee’s resignation. Employee has the right to resign at any time, by serving the required notice or by paying compensation to the employer in lieu of notice. Note: It is an offence for employers to disallow employees to leave their job.

Question 32

Can employment agency appeal without written authorisation to refund the fine by MOM?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No.
Employment agents must obtain the employers’ written authorisation before submitting the appeal.

Forms for appeal submission

For excluding FDW employers:
https://form.gov.sg/#!/5c6be1b83b87480017625311

For FDW employers:
https://form.gov.sg/#!/5f681af8051c700012d25947

Click here to learn more about Appeal To Refund MOM Fine

Question 33

Can Employment Agency update the profile of Employer at EPOL?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No, the employing company will have to update the particulars themselves or write to Work Pass Division to have the particulars updated.

Question 34

Can Employment Pass holders apply for long-term stay passes for parents?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, provided they meet the minimum salary requirements set by MOM.

Question 35

Can Employment Pass holders become Singapore permanent residents?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. Many EP holders apply for permanent residency through the ICA PR application scheme.

Question 36

Can Employment Pass holders change their residential address?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. EP holders must update their address details with MOM whenever they move residence.

Question 37

Can Employment Pass holders engage in freelance work?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. EP holders are only authorised to work for their sponsoring employer.

Question 38

Can Employment Pass holders participate in company management decisions?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. If they hold director or managerial roles, they may participate in strategic decision-making.

Question 39

Can Employment Pass holders serve as directors of multiple companies?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, but they must comply with MOM regulations and ensure their main employment remains unchanged.

Question 40

Can Employment Pass holders start additional companies in Singapore?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. EP holders may become shareholders or directors of other companies, subject to compliance with MOM regulations.

Question 41

Can Employment Pass holders travel freely during their employment?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. EP holders may enter and exit Singapore freely as long as their pass remains valid.

Question 42

Can Employment Pass holders work for more than one employer?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No. EP holders may only work for the employer specified in their Employment Pass approval.

Question 43

Can EP (Employment Pass) holder apply to be a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you wish to become a Singapore permanent resident, you can apply through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The application will be assessed based on ICA's PR criteria.

Question 44

Can EP holders bring family members to Singapore?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. Employment Pass (EP) holders in Singapore can bring certain family members, subject to eligibility criteria. They may apply for:

Dependant’s Pass (DP) for legally married spouse and unmarried children under 21
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for common-law spouse, step-children, unmarried handicapped children above 21, or parents (usually subject to higher salary requirements)

Applications are typically submitted by the employer or an authorised agent, and approval depends on meeting the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements.

Question 45

Can EP holders change employers?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, but a new EP application must be submitted.

Question 46

Can EP holders start their own business?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, but they must obtain approval and comply with regulations.

Question 47

Can Foreign Domestic Work Permit holder (FDW) /  Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) / Maid / Helper change, convert or upgrade to S Pass?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Changing, conversion or upgrading of Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) to S Pass. If you hold a Work Permit and wish to apply for an S Pass, first ensure that you are eligible for the S Pass by using the S Pass self-assessment tool at MOM website at: www.mom.gov.sg. If you meet the requirements, your employer can then apply for an S Pass for you. Note: Your employer should apply for the S Pass early. You can remain in Singapore while the application is being made, as long as your Work Permit is valid. Your employer doesn’t have to cancel the Work Permit before the S Pass is approved. If your Work Permit is expiring before you get the S Pass application outcome, your employer can request to extend your Work Permit using WPOL e-services. The extension is subject to MOM’s approval. Upgrading or conversion from Work Permit to S Pass is open to all Nationalities.

Question 48

Can I appeal for overstaying fine imposed by MOM?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes.

For pass holders (work pass holders or dependants) who meet any of these conditions, business employers or employment agents can use this form to appeal for a refund of the overstaying fines:

• Pass holders have obtained legal stay from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

• There was a delay in the processing of the pass holders’ pass extension requests.

Click here to learn more about Appeal To Refund MOM Fine

Question 49

Can I appeal to waive off overstaying Fines by MOM?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

In most of the cases, you will be required to pay the Fines for overstaying first and then only you could be able to appeal to get the refund of Fines from MOM.

Forms for appeal submission

For excluding FDW employers:
https://form.gov.sg/#!/5c6be1b83b87480017625311

For FDW employers:
https://form.gov.sg/#!/5f681af8051c700012d25947

Click here to learn more about Appeal To Refund MOM Fine

Question 50

Can I apply for Employment Pass while visiting Singapore?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. You can apply for an Employment Pass (EP) while you are in Singapore on a valid visit pass. However, you cannot start working until the EP is approved and issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). If approved, you may need to complete formalities such as issuance procedures before commencing employment.

Question 51

Can I change job while holding EP (Employment Pass)?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

You should ask the new employer to apply for a new Employment Pass for you.
There is no need to cancel the existing EP before applying for a new one.
Your application will be considered based on its merits and under prevailing guidelines.

Question 52

Can I choose not to take the full period of maternity leave?

Accepted Answer

Maternity leave is meant for mothers to recuperate and spend time with their new-born baby.

Government encourages you to use your full maternity leave entitlement. If you choose not to take your full entitlement, any unused maternity leave will be forfeited.

Instead of giving up your maternity leave, you could consider taking the last 8 weeks of leave flexibly over a 12-month period.

Question 53

Can I claim maternity leave payment from more than one employer?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Can I claim maternity leave payment from more than one employer? You can if you are employed by more than one company simultaneously.

Question 54

Can I employ the people as soon as the registration of business is over?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can start to recruit the local employees once the incorporation of business is completed.

Question 55

Can I engage unlicensed Employment Agent in Singapore?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No, you should not engage an unlicensed Employment Agent in Singapore. You should work only with licensed Employment Agencies (EAs) and registered Employment Agency personnel as they meet MOM’s eligibility criteria and have to follow employment agency rules and regulations. Unlicensed EAs may exploit vulnerable workers from developing countries by charging them exorbitant fees and may not give them the promised jobs in return. All registered EA personnel will carry a registration card showing their name, registration number and the EA that they are working for. You should check the registration card details against the EA Directory to ensure that their registration is valid. Before even establishing the business relationship, the EA personnel should show you with his EAP identity card which you are allowed to note down particulars to verify against the EA director online at MOM. Under regulations by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), all employment agencies must be properly licensed to carry out recruitment activities. Engaging an unlicensed agent is an offence and may result in penalties for both the agent and the party using their services. Licensed agencies are required to follow strict rules, including transparent fee structures, proper documentation, and fair recruitment practices. Using an unlicensed agent exposes you to risks such as fraud, non-compliance, and potential legal consequences. In short, always verify that the employment agency is licensed with MOM before engaging their services. You can check the EA Directory for the list of licensed EAs in Singapore and the names and photos of all registered EA personnel at:www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/employment-agencies-and-personnel-search

Question 56

Can I reject the resignation of my employee?

Accepted Answer

No. Employer cannot reject employee’s resignation. Employee has the right to resign at any time, by serving the required notice or by paying compensation to the employer in lieu of notice.

Note: It is an offence for employers to disallow employees to leave their job.

Question 57

Can I work Overseas while on a PEP?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, you can work overseas as long as necessary, if it’s for your Singapore-based employer.

Question 58

Can my Employment Agent update company particulars?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

The employing company will have to update the particulars themselves or write to Work Pass Division to have the particulars updated with MOM. Note: The company’s authorised Employment Agency (EA) is not allowed to update the particulars of the employing company with MOM.

Question 59

Can my helper work at another place than the registered address with MOM?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

A foreign domestic worker (FDW) is only permitted to work at the registered residential address with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). However, some employers may need the FDW to take care of their child or parent at a relative’s house.

The employer will need to notify MOM before allowing the FDW to work at another address. Enforcement action may be taken for failing to obtain MOM’s approval.

You must ensure all of the following to proceed:

You have already obtained your FDW’s written agreement to take care of your child or parent at the relative’s house.
Your FDW does not perform the full load of housework in both households.
If the FDW needs to stay overnight to take care of your child or parent at the relative’s house, her accommodation meets the requirements as listed at www.mom.gov.sg/fdw-accommodation-guidelines.
You will continue to provide for your FDW’s upkeep and maintenance, which include providing acceptable accommodation, adequate food and medical treatment.

Note: Only the employer can submit this form.

Employers must submit this form to notify MOM before they can get their foreign domestic workers (FDWs) to take care of their child or parent at a relative’s house. Copy the below link for Form to be submitted with MOM by using your SingPass:

http://www.mom.gov.sg/fdw-work-arrangement

Click here to learn more about Notification with MOM

Question 60

Can nominee directors refuse certain company actions?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes. They may refuse actions that violate laws or corporate governance principles.

Question 61

Can PEP Holder apply for PR?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, a Personalised Employment Pass (PEP) holder can apply for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR).

PEP holders are eligible to apply under the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme, administered by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.

Approval is not automatic. Applications are assessed based on factors such as salary level, employment stability, qualifications, work experience, and overall contribution to Singapore’s economy.

Question 62

Can S Pass holder be a director of a company in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

No. S Pass holders are not allowed to carry on or manage any business in Singapore. As such, they cannot register themselves as sole-proprietors, partners or directors of any Singapore-registered company.

By doing so, they will have infringed the work pass conditions and their work passes will be revoked. They will also need to serve an employment ban.

Question 63

Can S Pass Holder Work for More than one Employer at the Same Time?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

No, S Pass holder can only work for one employer at a time. All work pass holders must only work for their designated employer. They must not take on additional jobs or engage in activities to earn additional income in Singapore. This also applies to training pass holders doing on-the-job training.

Question 64

Can S Pass holders be promoted to managerial roles?

Achibiz · Accepted Answer

Yes, but the company may consider upgrading the pass to Employment Pass if salary criteria are met.

Employment Agency Services

. Can S Pass holders apply for permanent residency independently?

Am I eligible for maternity leave if I adopt a child?

Any Difference in Quota for Work Permits Among all Sectors?

Are Employers Required to Bear the Pregnancy Related Medical Costs incurred by their S Pass Holders?

Are employers required to buy medical insurance for Employment Pass (EP) holders?

Are foreigners eligible for maternity leave?

Are S Pass holders entitled to employee benefits?

As an EP (Employment Pass) holder, how I can update my contact details?

As an S Pass holder, how I can update my contact details?

Calculator for foreign worker quota?

Can a (EP holder) employment pass holder work in multiple jobs?

Can a company sponsor its own director for Employment Pass?

Can a foreign entrepreneur apply for Employment Pass through their own company?

Can a newly incorporated company apply for an Employment Pass?

Can a Work Permit (WP) holder work for more than one employer at the same time?

Can an (EP holder) employment pass holder work for more than one employer at the same time?

Can an employer dismiss a pregnant employee from her job?

Can an Employment Pass holder be appointed as company secretary?

Can an Employment Pass holder change employers without leaving Singapore?

Can an Employment Pass holder work as a company shareholder?

Can an Employment Pass Holder Work for More than one Employer at the Same Time?

Can an EP application be submitted before company incorporation?

Can companies apply for multiple S Pass holders?

Can Dependant (DP) of Employment Pass (EP) holder work with multiple Employers (jobs)?

Can Employer deduct the SDL (Skills Development Levy) from Employee’s salary?

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