In Singapore, it’s work permit renewal season and the new regulations are the talk of the town at after-work drinks on Fridays.
From September, foreign workers on work visas will have to meet the city-state’s new points system and earn a minimum salary threshold to keep their jobs. While this mirrors what’s happening in other countries, it risks deterring foreign businesses and tarnishing the country’s image as a global business hub.
The program was announced in 2022 to promote fair hiring practices. Points are awarded for how a candidate’s salary compares to that of local colleagues, along with their education and skills, and whether their nationality improves the company’s diversity. It puts the onus on employers to prove why they should hire foreigners.
