Singapore Work Pass Trends July 2021: More Stringent Cross-Examination
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If you’re applying for a work pass in Singapore this year, be prepared for processing to take up to five weeks longer, and to be asked to provide details on the need for a pass.
In the first half of 2021, Accela Talent’s work pass processing team has seen that almost all work pass applications have been met by further questions from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
This has not always been the case. Previously, a small percentage would be called up for a spot check, requiring more paperwork to support the application.
The preliminary application process hasn’t changed; what’s new is that supporting documents are almost always needed, so it’s good to be prepared to submit them when you start the Work Pass application process.
Over the past few months, applicants have been required to provide bank statements, client invoices, contracts, tax records and details of its existing employees.
As these spot checks can increase the processing time by a month or more, we recommend pulling the paperwork together as soon as you submit the initial application, so you are ready to hand it over when asked.
More specific requests our team has seen recently include; proof the company has financial ability to cover the salary for this pass holder (we recommend one year’s salary cost for the applicant), proof that you’ve tried to interview locals (this is best displayed as a table of how many Singaporeans and Singapore permanent residents were interviewed and why they were not successful) and proof that the applicant is the best person for this position.
For new companies, the bank statements can be a real hurdle, so it’s best to look for a provider who can help you get your account up and running quickly, so that you can generate some statements for your application. A nominee director who also offers a bank account set-up service (like Accela’s Corporate Secretary service) will save you a lot of time.
Verification of education certificates is now required, with almost everyone’s education history going through fraud checks. Each work pass applicant is required to engage a third party, who will call their education provider to verify they were indeed a student there. You must submit an invoice with your work pass application to prove you paid the third party agency. Any dishonesty will result in a black mark, and you will be unlikely to ever be granted a work pass in Singapore.
While it’s still very possible to hire foreigners to work in Singapore, and it’s a great place to grow a company, the priority is to grow good jobs for Singaporeans, so it’s best you make sure you’ve combed the island for candidates before you submit your foreign work pass application.
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If you need help finding great talent in Singapore and need assistance submitting a work pass application, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team at Talent: [email protected].