Immigration update: Singapore | MOM’s entry approval and work pass issuances
COVID-19: Updates on MOM’s entry approval and work pass issuances for foreigners serving SHN
As we are settling into the new normal in Phase 2, please see more information on the foreigners travelling back into Singapore.
MOM’s Entry Approval – During Phase 2, the government will continue to restrict the entry of pass holders into Singapore. Priority to be granted entry approval will be given to companies that provide essential services (e.g. healthcare and transport) and are supported by the relevant government agencies. While those that are not will be rejected. All short-term visitors (including In-Principle Approval holders) will not be allowed to enter or transit though Singapore, unless pre-approval has been received by the MOM. All employers are strongly urged to defer bringing pass holders into Singapore.
Please be advised that an Entry Approval request with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) must be submitted by the employer, within 30 days before the pass holder’s arrival date. If you need further guidance on this matter, please let us know.
Issuance of all foreign work passes – Please note that all issuances can only be process upon completion of the 14-day Stay Home Notice (SHN). Passes cannot be issued while the foreigner is still serving his/her SHN.
Card Registration at MOM – The MOM will continue to extend the expiry dates of notification letters and card registration due dates to give pass holders time to make an appointment. No hard copies will be issued for this extension. In the meantime, they can remain in Singapore with their notification letters or card replacement letters.
Medical Examination for pass holders –
For issuance: You may proceed with the issuance transaction without the completed medical examination form. Please only make an appointment for card registration after your pass holder have completed their medical examinations.
For renewals: You must upload the completed medical examination form during the renewal transaction. To give pass holders time for the medical examinations, the MOM will allow passes expiring from 6 June 2020 to 15 July 2020 to be renewed for 3 months first without the completed medical examination forms.
Note: In general, the IPA letter will indicate if the pass holder is required to undergo a medical examination. In cases where there is no requirement for a medical examination, pass holders may get their passes issued after completing of their SHN (where applicable) and schedule of appointment as required.
While Singapore is progressively re-opening the borders, approvals for any new applications are still limited. Passes for foreigners whom are already in Singapore can still be submitted.
Santa Fe Analysis
As per MOM’s guidelines, the authorities are processing new pass applications in which the applicants are currently in Singapore. However, we are still seeing rejected applications whereby the applicants are residing overseas.
Affected employees should refrain from making travel plans to Singapore as much as possible until further advice is received from the relevant government bodies.
Employers are also strongly advised to postpone bringing foreign employees into Singapore during this period.
Due to the dynamic environment surrounding the COVID-19 situation, you may also wish to visit the following links for the latest information pertaining to any developments in advisory notices from the relevant government bodies:
Should you have any questions, please contact:
Ai Leng Chew
Immigration Manager
Santa Fe Relocation
Singapore
D: +65 6398 3004
E: Aileng.Chew@santaferelo.com
Robert Day
Group Head of Immigration Operations
Santa Fe Relocation
D: +44 7990 021125
Email: Robert.Day@santaferelo.com
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