Step-by-Step Guide to Work Permit Application

Guide to Authorised Work Permit Application

1. Authorised WORKPASS to submit work permit application on your behalf
2. We require written consent from the worker prior to processing the work permit.
3. Documents and information have been reviewed and submitted online to MOM (Ministry of Manpower).
4. You will receive an update on the application status within 1 week. Processing time may be extended if additional information is needed.
5. Once the application is approved, you will receive the following documents:

• In-principle approval (IPA) letter
• Work Permit application form

Arrange For Worker’s Arrival

Complete these steps to prepare for your workers’ arrival in Singapore.

Before your workers arrive (Non-Malaysian)

• For non-Malaysian CMP Work Permit holders on IPA – Book a slot at the Onboard centre at least 4 days before your workers arrive. Ensure you get an onboarding slot before confirming their flight arrangements.
• Primary Care Plan (for those staying in dormitories or work in CMP sectors) for them. You must declare that you have bought the Primary Care Plan on WP Online, before the Work Permit can be issued.

1. Security bond for workers.

• Ensure the insurer sends MOM the security bond details. It takes up to 3 working days.
• The security bond must take effect when the workers arrive. Otherwise, they will be refused entry into Singapore and you will have to pay to send them home immediately.

1. Foreign worker medical insurance

When your workers arrive

1. Within 2 weeks of arrival, send them for medical examination by either a

• Singapore-registered doctor or
• MOM -appointed Anchor Operators for workers eligible for the Primary Care Plan.

You may also need to send them for the Settling-in Programme, if applicable.

1. Complete the Security Bond form.

• For sole proprietorships and partnerships, the form should be signed by the sole proprietor or partner.
• For private limited companies, it should be signed by a directors who is registered with ACRA. If the director wishes to appoint an employee to sign the form, he must provide a written authorisation to MOM.

All non-Malaysian male Work Permit holders on IPA in the CMP sectors entering Singapore will complete a residential onboarding programme at the Onboard centre for up to 4 days.

Issue Pass

Request for issuance of pass

Processing time: Immediate

Work Permit issued within this timeframe:

Newly-arrived Malaysian

• After the worker enters Singapore.
• Before the due date stated on the in-principle approval (IPA) letter.

Newly-arrived non-Malaysian

• After the worker enters Singapore.
• Within 14 days from arrival.

Changing to a new employer

• Before the current Work Permit expires.
• Before the due date stated on the IPA letter.

To get the Work Permit issued:

Register the worker’s residential address and mobile number

• Make sure you print the IPA letter and the Work Permit application form before you get the pass issued.
• [For new workers in the construction sector who passed their SEC(K) test overseas]

Before you get the pass issued, you must make an appointment with BCA to get your worker’s identity verified and IPA endorsed within 4 months of the SEC(K) test.

1. Provide us with the address (home or office) where the card will be delivered.
2. Nominate up to 3 authorised recipients to receive the card, and provide their NRIC, FIN or passport number, mobile numbers and email address.
3. After the Work Permit is issued, we will send you the notification letter.

The notification letter:

• Is valid for 1 month from the date of issue. Request to extend the validity if you have a change of travel plans.
• Should be given to the worker. It allows them to travel in and out of Singapore while waiting for the Work Permit card.
• States if the worker needs to report to MOM Services Centre – Hall C to register fingerprints and photo taking.

Card Registration

Thumbprint and photo taking for Work Permit card

We’ll make an appointment for the worker to register. (If applicable)

• When: Within 1 week after pass is issued

Place: MOM Services Centre – Hall C

For the appointment, the worker should bring:

• Original passport
• Appointment letter
• Notification letter

Receiving Card

Work Permit card delivery 

When: Within 5 working days after registration or document verification

MOM will deliver the Work Permit card to the given address within 5 working days after the worker registers and gets documents verified.

For workers who do not need to register, we will deliver the card within 5 working days after verifying their documents.

The authorised recipients will get an SMS or email with the delivery details at least 1 working day before delivery.

If card delivery fails

After unsuccessful deliveries, you’ll have to collect the card at the service desk of MOM Services Centre – Hall C.

You or an authorised person can collect the card 3 working days after the second attempted delivery. You don’t need an appointment for collection.

Bring along these documents for card collection:

• Worker’s original passport
• Notification letter

If you authorise someone to collect it on your behalf, make sure they bring these along:

• An authorisation letter from the employer
• NRIC or passport for verification

Sample Work Permit Card

Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring a seamless and efficient process for your work permit application, delivering results with the utmost professionalism and expertise.
Whether you’re a multinational corporation or a small business, we’re here to assist you every step of the way.

FAQ Work Permit In Singapore