Singapore is opening new doors for foreign workers, and for Indians, this could mean better job opportunities and longer career stability in the city-state. The ministry of manpower (MOM) has announced a series of policy changes that will allow employers to hire and retain skilled foreign talent more easily—benefiting Indian professionals and laborers alike.
More job openings, longer employment
From July 1, Singapore is scrapping the maximum employment period for work permit holders. Previously, foreign workers could only stay for 14 to 26 years, depending on their sector and country of origin. This means Indian workers in construction, shipyards, and process industries will now have the opportunity for long-term employment without arbitrary limits.
Additionally, the maximum age for employment is rising from 60 to 63, allowing experienced workers to stay longer. For new applicants, the age cap is also increasing to 61, up from 50. These changes will particularly help senior professionals and skilled laborers from India continue working in Singapore for extended periods.
Higher salaries, expanded job sectors
The reforms also bring better pay. The qualifying salary for S Pass holders—who perform specialized roles—will rise to SGD 3,300 (Rs 2.04 lakh) from September. For mid-career professionals in their 40s, salaries could go up to SGD 4,800 (Rs 3 lakh). In financial services, the qualifying salary is even higher, starting at SGD 3,800.
Moreover, the range of jobs open to non-traditional sources like India is expanding. From September, roles such as cooks, heavy vehicle drivers, and manufacturing operators will be added to the list—offering more avenues for skilled Indian workers to enter Singapore’s job market.
A boost for Indian talent
Singapore’s economy relies on a mix of local and foreign talent. As manpower minister Tan See Leng stated, restricting foreign workers would hurt businesses and limit opportunities for locals. Over the past decade, while foreign employment grew by 38,000, local professionals, managers, and executives saw an increase of 382,000.
With these new measures, Indian professionals, skilled laborers, and businesses will have a stronger footing in Singapore, ensuring a steady flow of jobs and economic ties between the two nations.