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Work Permit (WP)

The Work Permit allows semi-skilled migrant workers from approved source countries/regions to work in certain sectors.

Key facts on Work Permit for migrant worker

Get an overview and key facts about the Work Permit for migrant workers.

Who it is for	Workers from approved source countries/regions working in the construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process or services sector. Find out the eligibility criteria.
Who can apply	An employer or appointed employment agent needs to apply for the permit.
Qualifying salary	No minimum required.
What is the duration	Up to 2 years, depending on the validity of the worker's passport, security bond and employment period.
Is it renewable	Yes. Find out how to renew.
Passes for family	Not available.
Quota and levy	Yes. Employers are limited by a quota for their industry and have to pay a monthly levy for each worker. Find out the quota and levy requirements.
Medical insurance	Employers must provide medical insurance
Primary Care Plan (PCP)	Employers must complete all of the following: After getting the in-principle approval (IPA) or renewal letter, buy the PCP for workers who either: Stay in dormitories that can accommodate 7 or more workers Work in CMP sectors Before the Work Permit can be issued or renewed, declare the PCP purchase on WP Online.
Relevant legislation	Conditions of Work Pass Employment of Foreign Manpower Act
Related eServices and forms	Access online services and forms for Work Permit.

1.Understand the general requirements and sector-specific rules to apply.
2.Understand the foreign worker quota and levy requirements.
3.If you have never applied for a Work Permit, you need to declare your business activity.
For first-time employers
4.Apply for man-year entitlement (MYE).
For construction or process companies hiring workers from non-traditional source (NTS) countries/regions and China
5.Apply for prior approval (PA) for construction, marine shipyard, or process (CMP) sectors.
For construction, marine shipyard, or process companies hiring workers from NTS countries/regions and China
6.Apply for in-principle support (IPS).
For process maintenance companies hiring workers from NTS countries/regions and China

Note: Pass holders may be required to pay income tax.