KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Singapore scraps Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme from June 2026
- Foreign worker levies and salary thresholds rising through 2027–2028
- Employers must meet local hiring salary rules before accessing quotas
Singapore has rolled out major work permit reforms in 2026, tightening hiring rules while increasing costs for employers and raising standards for foreign workers.
Singapore updates work permit rules
| Policy Change | Details | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Performing Artiste Permit Scrapped | Scheme fully removed | 1 June 2026 |
| Foreign Worker Levy Increase | +S$100 to +S$150 depending on sector | 2026–2028 (phased) |
| S Pass Salary | Rising to S$3,600+ | Progressive |
| Employment Pass Salary | Minimum S$6,000 | By 2027 |
| Local Salary Requirement | Minimum S$1,800/month | July 2026 |
| Max Employment Age | Increased to 63 years | 2026 |
| Employment Duration Cap | Removed | 2026 |
Work Permit (Performing Artiste) Scheme Removed
From 1 June 2026, Singapore has eliminated the Performing Artiste Work Permit.
Authorities cited misuse of the scheme. Businesses in nightlife and entertainment must now switch to alternative hiring frameworks.
This is a hard stop, not a gradual phase-out.
Higher Costs for Hiring Foreign Workers
Foreign worker levies are increasing across multiple sectors:
- Marine shipyard: +S$100/month
- Process sector: +S$150/month
- Services and manufacturing: simplified tiers but higher base costs
These changes are phased until 2028, but cost pressures are already affecting hiring decisions in 2026.
Key point: Budget planning must be adjusted immediately.
Stricter Salary Requirements
Singapore is raising salary thresholds to improve workforce quality:
- S Pass: minimum rising to S$3,600 and above
- Employment Pass: minimum reaching S$6,000 by 2027
This reduces reliance on lower-wage roles and prioritises skilled professionals.
Longer Employment for Foreign Workers
A notable shift benefits experienced workers:
- Maximum employment age increased to 63
- Employment duration limits removed
This allows companies to retain trained workers longer, improving stability and reducing retraining costs.
New Local Hiring Requirement
From July 2026, employers must:
- Pay local workers at least S$1,800/month
- Meet this condition before hiring foreign workers under quota
This policy strengthens local workforce participation and raises baseline wages.
Why This Matters
These changes are not minor adjustments—they represent a structural shift in Singapore’s manpower strategy.
- For employers: Labour costs will rise, and workforce planning must become more strategic
- For foreign workers: Entry requirements are stricter, but long-term opportunities are more stable
- For locals: Wage protection and hiring priority are clearly reinforced
Delays in adapting could result in higher costs or reduced hiring flexibility.
What You Should Do Next
- Review hiring budgets for 2026–2028 levy increases
- Ensure compliance with S$1,800 local salary rule
- Reassess eligibility under updated salary thresholds
- Monitor updates from MOM regularly
FAQs
1. When is the Performing Artiste Work Permit removed?
It is fully discontinued from 1 June 2026.
2. Are foreign worker levies increasing immediately?
Yes, increases begin in 2026 and continue in phases until 2028.
3. What is the new minimum salary for local workers?
Employers must pay at least S$1,800/month from July 2026.
4. Can foreign workers stay longer in Singapore now?
Yes, the maximum employment age is now 63, and duration limits are removed.
5. Will it be harder to hire foreign workers?
Yes. Costs are higher, and eligibility criteria are stricter.
