Singapore expands foreign workforce, to launch new pass for tech talent

SINGAPORE: (Mar 3) Singapore on Tuesday announced an expansion of its foreign manpower policy, opening eight service-sector jobs to workers from more countries, including India, from September and introducing a new work pass from 2027 to attract global talent in emerging technologies.

Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said eight occupations in social, food, and air transport services will be added to the Non-Traditional Source (NTS) Occupation List from September, allowing work permit holders from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand to be hired for these roles.

The occupations are babysitters or infant caregivers, educarers and teacher aides in social services; food preparers like butchers and fishmongers, food or drink stall assistants, kitchen assistants and waiters in food services; and cabin crew.