Complete Guide to Hiring a Foreign Worker in Singapore

Andrew Leor Lim
May 16
3 min read

Hiring foreign workers in Singapore involves a structured process governed by strict regulatory frameworks. Whether you’re expanding your workforce in the construction, F&B, retail, or service sectors, understanding the policies and processes is key to successful recruitment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials—from work permit types to quota systems, levy obligations, and how partnering with the right employment agency can simplify the entire process.

Key Highlights:

Understand the types of work passes available in Singapore.
Learn how quotas and levies affect your hiring capacity and costs.
Discover how to choose a reliable, licensed employment agency.
Ensure compliance with MOM regulations to avoid legal pitfalls.
Explore value-added services that support foreign worker integration.
Build a diverse, skilled team that powers business innovation.

Types of Work Passes for Foreign Workers

Singapore offers several types of work passes, depending on the skill level and nature of employment:

Work Pass Type	Eligible Sectors	Min. Salary	Duration	Renewable	Medical Insurance
Work Permit	Construction, Marine, Manufacturing, Services, Process	N/A	Sector-specific	Yes	Required
S Pass	Mid-level skilled roles	From S$3,150	Up to 2 years	Yes	Required
Employment Pass (EP)	PMETs (Professionals, Managers, Executives)	From S$5,000	Up to 2 years	Yes	Required

*As of 1st May 2025.

Requirements vary by sector and are regularly updated by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Always consult a licensed agency or visit www.mom.gov.sg for the latest information.

Understanding Quotas and Levy Requirements

Quota (Dependency Ratio Ceiling)

The quota limits how many foreign workers you can hire based on your number of local employees.
It varies across industries—for example, service sector quotas differ from construction or manufacturing.

Foreign Worker Levy

The levy is a monthly fee payable per foreign worker.
Rates depend on the worker’s skill level, the sector, and whether the employer has met local hiring or training criteria.
Paying levies on time is critical to avoid penalties or pass suspensions.

Choosing the Right Employment Agency

Partnering with a licensed and experienced employment agency like ACME Employment Agency can greatly ease the burden of recruitment. Here’s what to look for:

Proven Track Record: Choose agencies with strong client testimonials and industry certifications.
Sector Experience: Select an agency familiar with your business niche for better candidate matches.
End-to-End Support: From sourcing to permit applications and onboarding.
Transparent Communication: You deserve clear updates, honest advice, and fast responses.

At ACME Employment Agency, we combine expertise, compliance knowledge, and a people-first approach to provide unmatched recruitment solutions.

Steps to Hire a Foreign Worker in Singapore

1️⃣ Candidate Sourcing and Screening

Your employment agency will first understand your job needs and source suitable candidates. They’ll conduct initial interviews, background checks, and shortlist applicants based on your criteria.

2️⃣ Work Permit Application

Once a candidate is selected, the agency assists with:

MOM portal submissions
Required documentation (passport, certificates, etc.)
Application tracking and follow-ups

3️⃣ Administrative Setup

Post-approval, the agency will handle:

Medical check-ups
Insurance coverage
Issuance of work pass
Settling-in services (e.g., lodging, Singpass, bank accounts, SIM cards, etc)

This comprehensive support ensures compliance while saving you time and resources.

Other additional services that support smooth transitions, reduce downtime, and improve worker retention.

Conclusion: Partner with a Trusted Foreign Manpower Expert

Hiring foreign manpower in Singapore can be complex—but it doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right guidance, systems, and recruitment partner, your business can grow with confidence.

ACME Employment Agency is here to simplify your hiring process, ensure compliance, and provide end-to-end staffing solutions. We serve a wide range of industries—from F&B and retail to logistics and manufacturing—with professionalism and integrity.

📞 Contact us today at +65 8471 8982 or via WhatsApp to discuss your staffing needs.