Singapore is introducing significant changes to its work permit system, effective July 2025. International employees will enjoy permanent jobs, higher age caps, and updated S Pass income and levy rates.
Work Permit holders will no longer experience a restriction on the duration of their job.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) declared the modifications as part of actions to boost the workforce by retaining beneficial and experienced international skills, mainly in major industries such as construction, shipyards, and production.
Under the new laws, work permit holders can remain and be employed in Singapore permanently, with no cap on the job period.
The modification will be applied across all countries and industries. The Ministry of Manpower declared that the effort is intended to assist firms in maintaining skilled and experienced employees for extended periods, thereby decreasing turnover and facilitating workforce stability.
Previously, work permit holders were subject to time caps, often resulting in high workforce turnover. Removing these limitations will motivate enterprises to invest more in long-term workforce growth.
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Singapore Increases Age Caps For Work Permit Holders
In a significant effort, the highest age cap for work permit holders will be increased to 63 years, up from the current 60.
Furthermore, the request age cap will increase to 61 years, a significant rise from the past 50 years for non-Malaysians and 58 years for Malaysians.
These modifications are anticipated to inject new vitality into key industries such as construction, shipyards, and manufacturing, where skilled international employees are crucial.
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By expanding the working age, local contractors will be best able to maintain seasoned skills, ensure knowledge transfer, and promote overall workforce competency.
Significant Changes For Work Permit Holders
The new highest working age is 63 years.
The new request age cap is 61 years, initially 50 for non-Malaysian citizens and 58 for Malaysian citizens.
The guideline adjustment enables older, skilled international employees to continue contributing to Singapore’s economy, helping sectors combat workforce shortages and internship difficulties.
Update For S Pass Holders
Along with the work permit changes, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has also issued updates for S Pass holders. Starting from 1 September 2025, the minimum eligible income for an S Pass will be increased to $2,524. At the same time, the basic/Tier 1 S Pass levy will rise from $420 to $497.
Major Changes For S Pass Holders
- Least eligible income: $2,524 beginning 1 September 2025.
- Basic/Tier 1 levy: rise to $497.
- The income and levy changes are designed to ensure a fair reward for S Pass holders and motivate firms to prioritize the employment of skilled international experts.
- These sweeping changes demonstrate Singapore’s commitment to cultivating a sustainable, experienced, and stable international workforce.
- Employees, once restricted by age and job duration, will now possess higher stability and longer-term prospects, while industries grappling with severe workforce shortages are likely to gain significantly.
