From September 19, 2023, Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will require employers in the Construction, Marine Shipyard and Process (CMP) sectors to provide proof of acceptable accommodation before they are permitted to bring their new non-Malaysian Work Permit Holders (WPHs) into Singapore. This is in addition to the work permit approval process.
The requirement will apply to new WPHs in the CMP sectors (i.e., In-Principle Approval holders) arriving in Singapore from September 19, 2023.
Requirements & Process
- Employers must complete and submit an online Pre-entry Housing Check form with proof of accommodation.
- The documentary proof required should be in the form of tenancy or rental agreements, or contracts with accommodation providers.
- Once the necessary checks are done, MOM will provide employers with the approval to proceed, via email.
- Onboard Centre bookings will also be checked to ensure that the workers registered have had their accommodation details verified.
Employers should factor the time needed for the checks into their recruitment plans. Those who are housing their workers in Purpose-Built Dormitories, Construction Temporary Quarters (CTQs), Temporary Occupation Licence Quarters (TOLQs), or their own dormitories, will obtain approvals within a week. Those who are housing their workers in private residential properties, hotels or hostels should expect the approval process to take around six weeks or longer due to additional checks.
Employers who bring their workers into Singapore without the required proof of accommodation may face suspension of their work pass privileges.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.