Indian Work Permit Holders in Singapore: Extended Stay

Singapore has announced significant changes to its foreign workforce policies, aiming to provide greater flexibility for employers and extended opportunities for foreign workers, including those from India.

Removal of Employment Duration Limits

Effective July 1, 2025, Singapore will eliminate the maximum employment period for work permit holders. Previously, foreign workers were restricted to stays ranging from 14 to 26 years, depending on their sector, skill level, and country of origin. This change allows Indian workers in sectors such as construction, shipyards, and manufacturing to remain employed indefinitely, provided they continue to meet eligibility requirements and their employers require their services.

Increase in Maximum Employment Age

The maximum employment age for work permit holders will be raised from 60 to 63 years, aligning with Singapore's official retirement age. Additionally, the age limit for new work permit applicants will increase to 61, up from the current cap of 50 for non-Malaysians and 58 for Malaysians. These adjustments aim to help businesses retain experienced workers and address labor shortages in key industries.

Higher Salary Requirements for S Pass Holders

To ensure fair wages and attract skilled workers, Singapore is increasing the minimum qualifying salary for S Pass holders—who work in mid-skilled jobs—to SGD 3,300 (approximately ₹2.04 lakh) starting September 1, 2025. For professionals in their 40s, salaries could reach SGD 4,800 (approximately ₹3 lakh). In the financial sector, the threshold will be even higher at SGD 3,800, rising with experience.

Expansion of Eligible Occupations and Source Countries

From September 1, 2025, Singapore will expand the range of jobs that can be filled by workers from non-traditional sources in the manufacturing and services sectors. New occupations include cooks, heavy vehicle drivers, and manufacturing operators. Employers hiring foreign workers in these roles must offer a minimum salary of SGD 2,000. Additionally, starting June 1, 2025, Singapore will expand its list of approved manpower source countries to include Bhutan, Cambodia, and Laos, providing employers with a broader talent pool.

These policy changes reflect Singapore's commitment to balancing economic growth with local workforce development. By easing work permit restrictions, extending employment age limits, and adjusting salary requirements, the government aims to attract skilled foreign workers while ensuring fair opportunities for locals.