Singapore Updates Non‑Traditional Sources (NTS) Occupation List for Work Permit Holders

Key Point  

• Beginning 1 September 2026, Singapore will add eight new occupations from the Food Services, Air Transportation and Social Services sectors to the NTS Occupation List, with further hiring requirements to follow.

Updates to the Non‑Traditional Sources Occupation List 

Singapore has announced that, effective 1 September 2026, eight additional occupations will be eligible under the Non‑Traditional Sources (NTS) framework. Employers in the Food Services, Air Transportation and Social Services sectors will be able to hire Work Permit holders from approved NTS countries for the following roles: 

• Butchers, fishmongers and related food preparers 
• Food/drink stall assistants 
• Kitchen assistants 
• Waiters 
• Cabin attendants 
• Babysitters/Infant caregivers 
• Educates 
• Teacher aides 

What Is the NTS Occupation List? 

Singapore’s NTS Occupation List identifies specific roles in the Manufacturing and Services sectors that employers may fill using Work Permit holders from approved NTS countries.  

The list operates alongside standard Work Permit source rules and is designed to give employers additional manpower flexibility while maintaining sector‑specific controls. 

Looking Ahead  

The government stated that additional details on hiring requirements for these occupations, including quota rules, documentation and any sector‑specific conditions, will be released at a later date.

Don’t Miss an Update

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. 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.