Data from the Singapore Ministry of Manpower shares that over 1.5 million people work in Singapore who are considered foreign workers, with over 1.1 million of them doing so using a work permit. Take into consideration that, in June of 2023, the country’s population had grown an astounding 5% in the previous 12 months.
Many were returning to the country following the pandemic, but the largest increase in population came from foreign employment. From June 2022 to June 2023, 162,000 foreign workers came to Singapore, according to a Reuters news story.
If you are planning to make the move to the country, you’ll want to explore this article, which breaks down some of the best Singapore jobs for expats. Getting a job in Singapore may not be as complicated as you think if you have a few important resources to guide you.
Table of Contents
What Skills Are in High Demand in Jobs for Foreigners in Singapore?
The job opportunities in Singapore for foreigners are numerous, and there are many of them to select from, but getting hired takes having key skills, including these:
1. Language skills
Being able to speak the language is important. It’s even more important in service-focused jobs (such as those working in retail, restaurants, and hospitality). Being confident in my language skills is paramount to getting a job in Singapore.
2. Computer skills
As a country that continues to move rapidly into the digital age, having computer skills is necessary for nearly all Singapore jobs for expats. Most industries are utilizing computer skills from inputting, data analytics, and more.
3. Management skills
For those who have management experience, that’s going to prove to be very valuable. While there is such growth in the economy here, what you’ll also find is that there are numerous holes in leadership – companies need people who can lead.
4. Problem solving
Employers are always looking for leaders who can solve problems on their feet instead of waiting for someone else to do so. If you are great at solving problems with confidence, make sure to communicate that on your application for any of the jobs you apply for here.
5. Adaptability
As noted, there’s a lot of growth and change happening in Singapore, and that means employees need to be adaptable. The employment front here is evolving with more technology and enhanced services. If you want to do well here, then you have to be able to adapt to the flow.
6. Workplace safety
There is also a demand for improving the safety of workers and job quality overall. You’ll see that many jobs for foreigners in Singapore stress a safe workplace and work culture. You’ll be expected to contribute to that.
7. Collaboration
Another big skill we see becoming even more in demand in the job opportunities in Singapore for foreigners is the ability and willingness to work as a team. Collaboration means solving problems and achieving goals within the team without one person always standing out from the rest. Companies are looking for team players.
8. Good communication
Beyond language skills, companies are also stressing the importance of excellent communication. That includes being able to gather information, analyze it, and provide solutions. It also means being able to work with customers, provide a description to clients or customers, and be able to focus on meeting the client’s needs.
9. Be ready to learn
Though it’s not really a skill itself, some of the most in-demand employers in the country are after workers who are ready and willing to learn. Continuous learning is a must in an economy that is changing so rapidly, and those who have those skills will do well over the long term.
10. Service oriented
Some jobs are certainly sales-oriented. All jobs, though, are working to build a business, which means workers must be able to provide excellent customer service skills.
What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs for Foreigners in Singapore?
Now that you have a good idea of the skills you need, check out some of the most in demand jobs for foreigners in Singapore with the companies hiring for them.
1. CNC Machinists
This field includes a range of industrial positions, including engineering to skilled labor positions.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
|
2. Managing Director
This job includes positions such as office manager, executive assistant, data entry, and director of operations.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
|
3. Sales Representatives
Sales representatives fall into a wide range of businesses, including pharmaceuticals, home products, and finance.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
4. Financial Consultant
Many large companies are looking for employees to fill gaps in up-and-coming startups and financial organizations. Financial consultants tend to bring skills with them to set up and build local businesses.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
|
5. Digital Marketer
Digital marketers are in demand in Singapore as the country’s digital economy continues to grow. These roles range from entry-level to hands-on leadership positions across all sectors of companies and industries.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
6. Logistics
The logistics field is also rapidly growing in Singapore creating an opportunity for those with skill or the desire to learn with the resources they need to work in an in-demand field. Some logistics positions are also focused on leadership.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
7. Health and Safety Officers
Health and safety officers are an important type of employment throughout a range of industries. Companies and government-level organizations are often looking for leaders who are able to provide a high level of focus and attention to detail to protect others.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
8. Food and Beverage Support
The food and beverage industry is always looking for highly skilled employees, including those who want to start at the ground and move up. From hotels to restaurants, from chefs to working with customers, these are some of the most in demand and prolific jobs.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
9. Human Resource Officers
Human resource officers, from ground level up, including executive positions, are also in demand in Singapore.
Skills Required | Companies Hiring |
|
Visa Information for Foreigners with Jobs in Singapore
To get the jobs for foreigners in Singapore, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have the skills to do so and a job that wants to hire you. Then, you’ll need to obtain the necessary work permit in Singapore. Here is what you need to know about visa sponsorship.
Types of Visas
To get the jobs for foreigners in Singapore, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have the skills to do so and a job that wants to hire you. Then, you’ll need to obtain the necessary work permit in Singapore. Here is what you need to know about visa sponsorship.
S pass work permit
Various types of work permits are available in Singapore. The most common is the S Pass or S Pass work permit. Most last between 1 and 3 years and can be renewed after that point. They let you work legally in Singapore. This work permit makes it possible for Singaporean companies to hire talented individuals from outside the country.
There are some specific requirements:
- Earn at least $3,000 a month or more at your new job
- Have a degree or diploma that shows you have completed at least 1 year of full-time study
- Have work experience in the job you are applying
Make sure you check out all of the visa requirements from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to gain access to the country and apply for the applicable visas.
Employment pass
Called an EP pass, this is a two-year workplace for people who are taking on an executive role in a Singapore company. You’ll need to have the promise of a job that earns at least $5,000 per month in most positions. Tech professionals are commonly in this area.
Personalized employment pass
The PEP is much like the EP, but with more flexibility and provides for three years of work. You do not have to stay with the same employer during that time. You will need to have a monthly salary that meets qualifications.
Overseas network and expertise pass
The ONE Pass is an exclusive, five-year visa that lets you work in business, sports, academia, and the arts. It is for the most elite of workers, and candidates must earn at least $30,000 per month to qualify for this pass.
EntrePass
If you are an entrepreneur who wants to launch a business in Singapore, you’ll need to apply for EntrePass. Keep in mind there are a lot of limitations on these opportunities.
Essential Steps for Getting Jobs for Foreigners in Singapore
1. Research the available jobs for foreigners in Singapore
You will need to have the qualifications for the job. Read through job listings to make sure it’s the type of work you know you can do.
2. Research the company itself
Once you have a few companies that seem interesting with openings, do your homework. Research the company in-depth to make sure they are growing and financially stable. You may also want to find out if they hire foreign workers.
3. Apply for the job
This only takes a matter of minutes if you have your CV or resume ready to go. Be sure you provide all the information requested.
4. Interview for the job
If you are applying for work in Singapore for foreigners, you’ll likely have a phone or video interview with the hiring manager. Take these interviews seriously. Prepare for them by researching the company and gathering information about the job. Be ready to answer questions about your past job performance and your goals with taking a job in the country.
5. Get the job and visa sponsorship
Once you have a few interviews with prospective employers and land a position (or even more), you’ll need to accept the job and then work with the company to arrange for travel and set up a place to live. You’ll also need to work on getting the required visa.
Final Thoughts
There are some outstanding Singapore jobs for expats, and you can apply for them right away. The key is to learn as much as you can about the company and job before you choose. Check out the jobs for foreigners in Singapore currently hiring.
