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SINGAPORE: The Government is easing restrictions to allow new work permits and S Pass applications in all sectors in Singapore in order to alleviate the labor shortage faced by companies.
“The Ministry of Manpower (MOM), in consultation with the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of National Development and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, will adjust the processing of new applications for work permits and S Pass for workers of all sectors to better support businesses, ”the agency said in a statement on Tuesday (December 15) in response to the CNA’s inquiries.
Previously, the ministry said it was processing new applications for work passes from countries with lower health risks, such as China. It is now processing applications from all approved source countries, with workers from certain countries and regions working for specific industrial sectors, the CNA understands.
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MOM said it now has “more room” to accommodate the entry of job pass holders to alleviate a labor shortage, citing Singapore’s “stable” COVID-19 situation, “strong public health measures” and capacity to proof.
Applicants and employers must adhere to existing border measures, which include requesting entry approval from authorities, undergoing pre-departure testing, and completing their Singapore Home Stay Notice.
MOM has also started allowing existing job pass holders to return to Singapore.
Employers in the construction industry, a sector that relies heavily on foreign workers, particularly those from India and Bangladesh, have been struggling to cope with the shortage of workers.
The food and beverage industry has also struggled to fill vacancies, the CNA reported in November.
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