Singapore Enhances Work Permit eService and Introduces Temporary Permit Process

• Singapore will introduce new Work Permit eService functions on the myMOM Portal from Nov. 29, 2026, including Temporary Permit applications, foreign worker profile management, and in-principle approval extensions.  

Singapore Expands Work Permit eService Functions 

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will launch new functionality within the Work Permit eService on the myMOM Portal beginning Nov. 29, 2026. The enhancements will allow employers to apply for Temporary Permits (TPs), manage foreign worker records, and extend Work Permit in-principle approvals (IPAs) through a single platform.  

New Temporary Permit Process for Work Permit Holders 

A significant change affects when Work Permit holders may begin employment. 

Current Rules (Before Nov. 29, 2026) 

• Non-Malaysian Work Permit holders may begin work from the second day after arrival using the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter.  
• Malaysian workers may obtain a Temporary Permit via WP Online if work must begin before the Work Permit is issued.  

New Rules (From Nov. 29, 2026) 

All workers may begin work only after:

• Authorities issue their Work Permit; or
• Authorities grant a Temporary Permit.

Employers requiring a worker to begin work urgently before permit issuance may apply for a Temporary Permit through the Work Permit eService on the myMOM Portal. Eligible applications will generally be approved instantly.  

Temporary Permit Application Requirements 

Under the new process: 

• Non-Malaysian workers may apply for a TP on the day work is needed, or earlier, before arrival. However, the TP will only be granted starting from the second day after arrival in Singapore.  
• Malaysian workers may apply after receiving the IPA and once they are in Singapore.  

The Ministry of Manpower also notes that levy charges will begin on the date the TP is granted.  

New Foreign Worker Profile Management Tools 

From Nov. 29, 2026, employers will be able to access a new View/Update Foreigner Profile function through the Work Permit eService on the myMOM Portal.  

The new function will allow employers to: 

• View worker particulars. 
• Review occupation and employment history. 
• Check security bond status. 
• View and update employment details, including key employment terms such as salary.  

For the time being, updates to worker particulars and occupation information must continue to be completed through WP Online, with additional migration of functions planned for 2027.  

IPA Extension Requests Moving to myMOM Portal 

Employers unable to bring a worker into Singapore before an IPA expires will be able to request an extension through the Work Permit eService on the myMOM Portal beginning Nov. 29, 2026.  

The ministry notes that workers already in Singapore who need additional time before Work Permit issuance should instead request a Special Pass. In such cases, IPA validity will be extended automatically when the Special Pass is issued.  

Don’t Miss an Update 

At Envoy Global, we’re led by experts and enabled by technology.  We deliver a better way for companies to manage global corporate immigration. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first. 

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs.