Employment
What is the Employment Act
The Employment Act is Singapore’s main labour law. It provides for the basic terms and conditions at work for employees covered by the Act.
Who is Covered by the Act
You are covered if you are an employee working under a contract of service with an employer.
It covers local and foreign employees.
An employee can be employed in the following terms:
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Full-time
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Temporary
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Contract
An employee can be paid on the following basis:
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Hourly
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Daily
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Monthly
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Piece-rated
If you work less than 35 hours a week, you are a part-time employee covered by the Employment of Part-Time Employees Regulations.
However, you are not covered if you are employed as a:
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Seafarer
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Domestic worker
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Statutory board employee or civil servant
If you are not covered by the Employment Act, your terms and conditions of employment will be according to your employment contract.
Singapore Work Passes
(For Foreigners)
All foreigners who intend to work in Singapore must have a valid pass (commonly known as a work visa) before they start work. If you are engaging foreigners to work in Singapore, you must ensure that they hold a valid pass.
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For foreign professionals, managers and executives. Candidates need to earn at least $4,500 a month and have acceptable qualifications.
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For eligible foreign entrepreneurs who are keen to start and operate a business in Singapore that is venture-backed or possesses innovative technologies.
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For high-earning existing Employment Pass holders or overseas foreign professionals. The PEP offers greater flexibility than an Employment Pass.
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For mid-level skilled staff. Candidates need to earn at least $2,500 a month and meet the assessment criteria.
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For foreign professionals undergoing practical training. Candidates must earn at least $3,000 a month.
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For spouses and children of eligible Employment Pass or S Pass holders.
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For parents, common-law spouses, step-children or handicapped children of eligible Employment Pass or S Pass holders.