You arrive in Singapore hoping to build your career in this vibrant city. However you quickly learn that qualified workers receive priority in the job market. Singapore has updated its Work Permit system in 2025 to attract foreign workers while protecting local employment opportunities. The Ministry of Manpower now allows experienced workers to remain in the country for extended periods and has introduced multiple recruitment channels. This creates significant opportunities for workers seeking positions in construction manufacturing & service industries who want to establish themselves in Singapore’s labor market.
Longer Employment Terms and Age Limit Expansion Explained
One of the most practical policy changes is the elimination of time limits on how long an EP holder can work. Starting July 1 2025, Work Permit holders will be able to stay indefinitely. This means employees can continue working as long as they meet the job requirements & their employer wants to keep them.
New Source Nations and Expanded Job Categories
Singapore is working to solve its worker shortage and bring in more diverse talent by looking for people in new places. From December 1st 2025 workers from Bhutan, Cambodia and Laos will join those from Bangladesh India, Myanmar, Philippines, Sri Lanka & Thailand under the Non-Traditional Source (NTS) program.
Industry-Based Quota Changes and Updated Levy Structure
| Sector | Max DRC (Work Permit) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Services | Around 35%–40% (depends on sub-sector) | Tighter controls in retail and F&B segments |
| Manufacturing | Up to 60% | Higher cap to support output and productivity needs |
| Construction | Up to 87.5% (subject to MYE) | Man-Year Entitlement (MYE) allocation is required |
| Process / Marine | Varies by activity and approved limits | Mandatory safety training and compliance checks apply |
Streamlined Online Work Permit Application System
The Work Permit process will soon be handled entirely online through MOM portals. Employment agencies can submit applications and track their status in real time while managing renewals more efficiently. The paperless system reduces processing time significantly. This streamlined approach accelerates approvals and applications can be completed within weeks.
