Singapore: Employer of Record Updates

Key Points  

• Singapore has clarified that Employers of Record cannot apply for work passes for foreign nationals who are employed by overseas companies and based in Singapore 

Overview  

The government of Singapore has clarified that Employers of Record cannot apply for work passes for foreign nationals employed by overseas companies and based in Singapore. This will be considered an offense. Only Singapore-based companies can apply for work passes, and these foreign nationals must be hired with the intention of staying in Singapore long-term. 

Overseas entities without a local presence can either set up a representative office through Enterprise Singapore or incorporate a company with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority. 

Foreign nationals looking to explore business opportunities in Singapore can use a Short-Term Visit Pass, which allows them to engage in business activities for up to 90 days per year, depending on their nationality. 

Looking Ahead  

Continue to check the government of Singapore’s website and Envoy Global’s website for the latest updates and information.