Overview
Basking in the vibrant hues of its multicultural tapestry, Singapore stands as a beacon of progress and prosperity in the heart of Southeast Asia. Nestled at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, it has blossomed from a small fishing village into a bustling global hub of commerce, innovation, and culture. This city-state, adorned with lush greenery amidst skyscrapers, not only boasts a skyline that narrates tales of futuristic vision but also nurtures a rich amalgam of traditions and modernity. A sanctuary where tradition meets technology, Singapore is where you can witness a harmonious symphony of the past, present, and future unfurling in a dynamic urban paradise.
Reasons to work in Singapore
Singapore has always been an attractive career destination for many ambitious graduates and experienced professionals from all around the world. Foreigners often choose to work in Singapore due to a myriad of compelling reasons that showcase the city-state as an attractive global hub for both professional and personal growth.
- High salaries: Singapore has some of the highest salaries in Southeast Asia. According to a 2022 report by ECA International, the average salary in Singapore is $7,310/per month, which is significantly higher than the average salary in other Southeast Asian countries.
- Low taxes: Singapore has a relatively low tax burden, with a personal income tax rate of up to 22% and a corporate tax rate of 17%. This can save you a significant amount of money on your taxes.
- Excellent infrastructure: Singapore has excellent infrastructure, including world-class airports, roads, and public transportation. This makes it easy to get around the city and to travel to other parts of Southeast Asia.
- Safety: Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world. The crime rate is low, and you can feel safe walking around the city at any time of day or night.
- Affordable healthcare: Singapore has a universal healthcare system that provides affordable healthcare to all residents. This can save you a lot of money on medical expenses.
- Excellent education system: Singapore has an excellent education system, which is ranked among the best in the world. This can give your children a great start in life.
- Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of major trading routes, Singapore provides ample opportunities to network and collaborate with professionals from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
If you aspire to work in one of the world's great career hubs, Singapore can be an option for you.
Getting a Job in Singapore as a Foreigner
Getting a job in Singapore as a foreigner involves navigating through a structured process, from comprehending the job market nuances to obtaining a work pass. Engaging in job applications that don't facilitate work passes can potentially waste your efforts and resources. To streamline your job hunt in Singapore as a foreigner, you can follow these simple steps proposed by Opentoworld:
Step 1: Find suitable positions on Opentoworld
Opentoworld lists vacancies that facilitate work pass sponsorship, assisting foreigners who do not possess an unrestricted right to work in Singapore in finding suitable roles.
Step 2: Submit job applications
During the application phase, prepare to submit a comprehensive CV (resume) and, in certain cases, a well-crafted cover letter that highlights your competencies and aspirations.
Step 3: Complete the application process
If your qualifications align with the employer's expectations, you may be invited to undergo various assessments and interview rounds. For those eyeing internships, graduate positions, or graduate schemes, be ready to partake in assessment centres, also known as super days or assessment days, or similar evaluations that form part of the selection process.
Step 4: Receive a job offer
Securing a job in Singapore often demands applying to multiple positions to increase your chances of success. Upon a successful application, you will receive a job offer in Singapore. Note that having a job offer is generally a prerequisite to initiating the work pass application process.
Step 5: Apply for a work pass and relocate
With a signed contract in hand, your employer will typically assist you in the work pass application process. The popular pass categories in Singapore include:
- Employment Pass (EP) - for managerial, executive or specialised jobs
- S Pass - for mid-level skilled staff
- Work Permit - for semi-skilled workers in various sectors
Upon securing the relevant work pass, you are set to commence your relocation to Singapore or extend your stay if you are already residing in the country.
In Singapore, it is generally necessary to secure a job offer and employer sponsorship to obtain a work pass. There are limited schemes available that allow for a job search without employer sponsorship, but these often come with specific requirements and are not applicable to the broader audience of job seekers.
Singapore Employment Market in 2023
Singapore's job market in 2023 witnessed a positive yet moderating trend, and it showed signs of recovery from the pandemic. Here's a breakdown:
Strong Fundamentals:
- Low unemployment: Singapore boasted a low unemployment rate of 2.8% for its citizens, indicating a high demand for labour.
- Employment growth: While slower than in 2022, total employment still grew by 24,300 in Q2 2023 compared to Q1, with non-residents driving the increase.
- Resilient sectors: Growth remained strong in sectors like Information & Communication Technology (ICT), Financial Services, and Professional Services, fueled by digitalisation and innovation.
Moderating Pace:
- Cooling demand: The number of job vacancies dropped for the fifth consecutive quarter, suggesting a slight cooldown in employer demands.
- Shifting dynamics: Resident employment saw a contraction for the first time since 2020, potentially due to demographic shifts and changing labour force participation patterns.
- Global headwinds: Concerns about inflation and the global economic slowdown might affect future growth.
Looking Ahead:
- Cautious optimism: Despite moderation, Singapore's strong fundamentals and focus on economic transformation should support continued job creation in key sectors.
- Focus on upskilling: As industries evolve, continuous learning and skills development will be crucial for workers to stay competitive.
- Attracting talent: Singapore remains an attractive destination for skilled professionals, offering a vibrant economy, diverse opportunities, and a high quality of life.
Top Industries that Attract Global Talent
Singapore continues to be a magnet for international talent, thanks to its thriving and diversified industrial landscape. Here are some of the dominant sectors where global professionals might find lucrative opportunities:
- Financial Services: Singapore is renowned as a global financial hub, with numerous banks, investment firms, and financial institutions headquartered here. This sector offers opportunities in roles ranging from financial analysts to investment bankers, drawing professionals globally.
- Information Technology: As Singapore strides towards becoming a Smart Nation, the IT and cybersecurity sectors are booming. Professionals with expertise in areas like artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and cybersecurity are highly sought after.
- Biomedical Sciences and Healthcare: Singapore has been focusing on becoming a hub for biomedical sciences and healthcare. This sector attracts professionals, such as research scientists, medical practitioners, and healthcare consultants, who contribute to the growth of medical research and healthcare facilities.
- Manufacturing and Engineering: The manufacturing sector, especially in electronics and precision engineering, has been a longstanding pillar of Singapore's economy. Opportunities abound for engineers, technicians, and professionals with expertise in advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Maritime and Shipping: Leveraging its strategic geographic location, Singapore has established itself as a leading maritime hub, offering roles in shipping management, maritime law, and port logistics.
- Education and Training: Singapore's commitment to education is reflected in its well-developed education sector. Opportunities exist for academic professionals, curriculum developers, and trainers who can contribute to the nation's focus on quality education and lifelong learning.
- Tourism and Hospitality: The tourism and hospitality industry, though impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, is anticipated to recover and continue to offer opportunities in hotel management, travel services, and event planning, with Singapore being a preferred destination for tourists and international events.
Apply for visa-sponsored jobs in top industries in Singapore:
Requirements for a Singapore Work Visa
Individuals looking to relocate to Singapore for work generally have to apply for an employment pass or a work visa. The type of visa needed depends on various factors, including the nature of the job, the applicant's qualifications, and the salary range. Some of the primary work visas in Singapore include the Employment Pass, the S Pass, and various work permits. These visas are issued for a specific period and can be renewed. To qualify, applicants generally need to have a confirmed job offer from an employer in Singapore who is willing to sponsor them.
Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass is meant for foreign professionals, managers, and executives who have a job offer in Singapore. The pass is issued to those who have specialised skills and qualifications in various fields.
Main Requirement for the Employment Pass:
- Have a job offer in Singapore. Job opportunities can be found on various platforms like Opentoworld.
- Work in a managerial, executive, or specialised job.
- Have acceptable qualifications, usually a good university degree, professional qualifications, or specialised skills.
- Earn a fixed monthly salary comparable to the top one-third of the local PMET workforce by age, as shown below:
- All (except financial services): At least $5,000 (increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $10,500 at age 45 and above)
- Financial services: At least $5,500 (increases progressively with age from age 23, up to $11,500 at age 45 and above)
S Pass
The S Pass is designed for mid-level skilled staff who earn a fixed monthly salary which meets the current threshold set by the Ministry of Manpower.
Main Requirements for the S Pass:
- A minimum fixed monthly salary is required, with the amount being updated periodically. The salary starts at a minimum of $3,150 and increases progressively with the age and industry you are working, up to $5,650. For candidates in the financial services sector, higher salaries are needed to qualify.
- Applicants should possess a degree or diploma. Technical certificates can also be considered, provided they cover at least a year of full-time study.
- Similar to the EP, a confirmed job offer in Singapore is required. Opportunities can be sought on platforms like Opentoworld.
- An assessment is conducted to consider the applicant's qualifications, salary, and the employer's quota for foreign workers.
Work Permit
The Work Permit is for semi-skilled foreign workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, marine, process or services. There is also a special work permit for migrant domestic workers.
Main Requirements for Work Permits:
- Different sectors have different requirements and criteria that need to be met. Specific requirements can be found in the job description.
- A confirmed job offer from a Singapore-based employer is a prerequisite. Job seekers can explore platforms like Opentoworld for suitable opportunities.
- The employer should have a quota for foreign workers, which varies depending on the sector.
Work permits are generally issued for up to two years and are renewable, subject to the employer's continued need for the worker's service and the worker meeting the conditions for renewal.
It's important to note that the sponsoring companies usually assist with the visa application process, guiding the candidates through the necessary steps and providing the necessary documents for the application.
Relevant Links
Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Singapore
Other Common Visa Options to Work in Singapore
How to Write a Singapore Standard CV
