Work Permit for Migrant Workers
For semi-skilled migrant workers in construction, manufacturing, marine, process and services sectors.
The Work Permit for Migrant Workers is a Singapore work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~S$35 application + S$35 issuance; employer pays levy (from S$650) and a security bond) and processing time (~1 week), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Work Permit for Migrant Workers is for
For semi-skilled migrant workers in construction, manufacturing, marine, process and services sectors.
No realistic pathway to Permanent Residence from this pass.
Work Permit for Migrant Workers - eligibility criteria
- From an approved source country for the sector
- Aged 18 or above and within the sector's age limit
- Employer holds quota and pays the monthly levy
- Employer purchases a S$5,000 security bond (non-Malaysians)
- Passes the required medical examination
Work Permit for Migrant Workers cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Work Permit for Migrant Workers (Singapore) is ~S$35 application + S$35 issuance; employer pays levy (from S$650) and a security bond, with an indicative processing time of ~1 week. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Singapore MOM / ICA.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online via employer/agent on MOM's myMOM Portal |
| Length of stay | Up to 2 years, renewable subject to age and employment limits |
| Work rights | Work only for the sponsoring employer in the approved sector |
| Study rights | No study allowed |
| Government fee | ~S$35 application + S$35 issuance; employer pays levy (from S$650) and a security bond |
| Processing time | ~1 week |
| Route to PR | No realistic pathway to Permanent Residence from this pass. |
Pathway & next steps
No realistic pathway to Permanent Residence from this pass.
Many applicants also compare S Pass · S Pass, Training WP · Training Work Permit, WHP · Work Holiday Pass (Work/Working Holiday Programme). Run a free VisaChief check to see which Singapore route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Work Permit for Migrant Workers pitfalls we fix
Work Permit for Migrant Workers - frequently asked questions
How much does the Work Permit for Migrant Workers cost?
The Work Permit for Migrant Workers government fee is ~S$35 application + S$35 issuance; employer pays levy (from S$650) and a security bond. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Singapore MOM / ICA before applying.
How long does the Work Permit for Migrant Workers take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~1 week. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Work Permit for Migrant Workers lead to permanent residence?
No realistic pathway to Permanent Residence from this pass.
Can I work on the Work Permit for Migrant Workers?
Work rights: Work only for the sponsoring employer in the approved sector.
Who can apply for the Work Permit for Migrant Workers?
For semi-skilled migrant workers in construction, manufacturing, marine, process and services sectors.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Singapore government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Singapore MOM / ICA - official Singapore immigration authority