The Impact of COVID-19 On Work Pass Applications: Q4 2020 Updates
The COVID-19 pandemic has completely transformed the way we live and work. For foreigners looking to change jobs domestically, or relocate to Singapore, the uncertainty of making this a reality is palpable as the country places a significant focus on ensuring the job security of its local workforce.
After four months of careful “Phase 2” reopening, the government is cautious about moving into “Phase 3” with a broader reopening of the business operations across the county too quickly. In the meantime, there has been a slew of new initiatives and restrictions to facilitate the recovery of the economy, several of which have affected work pass applications in our island nation (read our last update here to catch up).
With the Singapore government has accepting that COVID-19 is here to stay and reviewing its operations for the ‘new normal’, there are still opportunities for foreign professionals in Singapore. At Accela Talent, we have been continually processing applications throughout 2020 and have a unique perspective on the ongoing impact of COVID-19.
Tightening Of Employment Pass Approvals
As borders slowly start to open to select countries, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has resumed reviewing work pass applications for applicants who are currently overseas. The details are not available to the public, and as such, we don’t have visibility to understand if specific industries or job roles are prioritised. What we do know is that it is tougher to get a work pass now than it was at the beginning of the year. In a bid to ensure Singaporeans are prioritised for job opportunities, the MOM had increased the minimum salary requirements for the Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass, also doubling the time required for job advertising.
Last increased in May 2020, the EP qualifying salary rose again in September 2020 to SGD 4,500 (up from SGD 3,900), and SGD 5,000 for EP holders in the financial sector. This increase came into effect within a week of being announced, signalling the government’s priority in ensuring that companies are considering Singaporeans for job openings fairly.
Approval of Work Passes in Singapore
We are seeing some glimmers of hope, and have observed a trend where overseas candidates who are in specialised or management positions are seeing success with EP approvals. This could be due to a preference for specialised skills that are lacking in Singapore, and recognising that management candidates often bring along extensive experience into the market, which is then shared with the local workforce. With the government tightening the work pass eligibility, it is no surprise that only the best and brightest are receiving employment pass approvals.
Existing Work Pass Holders Outside Singapore
Knowing that it is not sustainable to keep our borders entirely closed to incoming talent, the government has introduced a process for existing work pass holders to enter Singapore with approval. Known as 'Entry Approval', MOM is granting pass holders permission to enter Singapore at a requested date, arranging quarantine and the compulsory swab tests before the pass holders are allowed to start their new roles in Singapore.
How We Can Help
At Accela Talent, work pass processing remains active. Our team continues to stay updated on the latest news and trends to advise our existing and potential clients about the climate, helping them gain a better chance for their application to be approved. We also diligently track the application outcomes, so we have both a macro and micro view on the work pass processing environment.
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If you would like to know more about how we can put forth your best work pass application in the midst of COVID-19, contact the Accela Talent team to set up a preliminary discussion: [email protected].