Is it time for greener pastures, career-wise? Or maybe you’ve always wanted to work overseas. Well, here’s a guide on landing a job in sunny Singapore as an expat.
So you’ve decided to make the big move to Singapore. Welcome to our little red dot! We’re sure you’ve researched where to stay, professional movers that can help you pack and unpack, and storage spaces to stow away your extra stuff. That’s on top of immigration matters, potential schools for your little ones, and insurance policies to take up. Phew!
Another thing to ponder is your employment. While most folks are moving due to work opportunities, some decide to migrate because they’re looking for greener pastures. We know it’s a doozy diving into this topic, so here’s a cheat sheet on looking for jobs and working in Singapore as an expat.
Your handy guide on jobs and working in Singapore for foreigners
1. Understand the employment requirements
We bet you’re excited about working in Singapore, but hold your horses! You need to know a few things before starting your job search. First, check your employment eligibility using the Ministry of Manpower’s Self-Assessment Tool. It evaluates your educational background and professional experiences and lets you know if you can work in Singapore.
The next step is knowing which work visa (aka employment permit) is most suitable for you. Most expats in executive and managerial positions will qualify for Singapore’s employment pass, which requires them to earn a minimum salary of $5,000. Or, you can be eligible for the S-Pass, in which you must earn at least $3,150 monthly. Ensure the company you apply to is a registered and accredited employer by the Ministry of Manpower. After a successful job offer, work visas are automatically applied by the company or done by yourself.
2. Research the job market
It’s advisable to learn more about Singapore’s job market so that you know what to expect. Find out which job positions match your qualifications and skills; otherwise, you can consider applying for roles in industries that are in high demand. These include financial services, healthcare, and information technology. Applying for these sectors might increase your chances of securing employment. Attending virtual job fairs and industry-specific webinars can also be beneficial. We recommend researching salary ranges and living costs to align your expectations.
P.S. It’s good to keep updated on the latest developments in Singapore’s labour market so you can be strategic with your job search.
3. Look for jobs through various platforms
You don’t have to be physically present in Singapore to find a job. Plenty of websites and online platforms allow you to look for employment and submit your application. These include LinkedIn, Jobstreet, Jobscentral, and Indeed. You can also register with and go through recruitment agencies, which will do the heavy lifting for you. Another option is to network with foreigners who work and live in Singapore. You’ll learn more about the job market here and might even get referrals from these folks. Think of it as getting your foot in the door.
When applying for jobs, check what you specifically need to submit. Some organisations require only your resume, while others want you to attach a cover letter to your curriculum vitae. Some companies may also ask you to fill out an application form. Customise your resume and cover letter for each application and update them accordingly to have a better chance of landing that job.
Your initial interview may be via phone or video; some companies might require you to be physically present for assessment purposes. Check with the recruiter on your next steps.
4. Learn about Singapore’s work etiquette and culture
Singapore is home to many local and international organisations, and because of that, the work culture varies. Even if you’re joining a multinational or foreign-owned business, it’s good to learn more about the cultural norms guiding work in Singapore. The standard dress code depends on your industry, but it’s typically business casual. This means button-down shirts and pants for males, and button-up shirts, skirts that fall below the knee, and pantsuits for females. Check with your HR regarding acceptable work attire.
You can expect to work for nine hours per day or up to 44 hours per week. If you need to work overtime, your employer must pay compensation. Depending on the organisation, you’re either required to work in the office or a hybrid work mode. Talk to your supervisor if you need flexible work arrangements. Also, expats working in Singapore must pay a tax of 15% of their income as they’re not required to contribute to the Central Provident Fund (CPF).
While English is the official language for business and education, you’ll also hear other languages, such as Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil, being used in the workplace. If you’re lucky, you might even hear dialects like Hokkien and Cantonese too. There’s also Singlish, a Creole language widely spoken among the locals. Most foreigners react with bemusement when they initially hear this. We recommend listening and learning more by asking your colleagues about the meaning of common phrases and how they’re used.
Psst: be sure to participate in cultural and team-building activities, which can also help you integrate better into the work environment.
5. Benefits and public holidays
Everyone working in Singapore is entitled to eleven public holidays per calendar year. If any of these days falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is a day off. Anyone required to work on a public holiday is entitled to an extra day’s salary or an off in lieu, depending on the contract. Psst: did you know that compassionate and marriage leaves are not compulsory in Singapore? Yes, quelle surprise. Check with your HR department and discuss this with them if necessary.
Singapore’s employment act stipulates that anyone who’s worked for a company for at least three months is entitled to paid sick leave; those who’ve been with the company for six months or more get full entitlements to paid sick and hospitalisation leaves (14 and 60 days respectively). If you plan to start a family in Singapore, check with your HR for maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave entitlements.
There you go, folks. Good luck to all expats looking for jobs in Singapore!
