Can I work in Singapore with a tourist visa?

No, you are not allowed to work in Singapore on a tourist visa. A Singapore visitor visa permits foreign nationals to enter the country for tourism purposes or short-term visits but does not allow work in Singapore. You must have a valid pass or work permit, such as an Employment pass, S pass, or Work permit, to engage in any form of employment. As of June 2024, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore issued around 1,138,200 work permits in total for different sectors. 

*Willing to work in Singapore? Y-Axis is here to provide you with all the necessary assistance!
 

What are the different types of work visas in Singapore?

The following are the different types of Singapore work visas:

• Singapore work visas for professionals: International professionals are allowed to work in Singapore with these visas. The following are the types of Singapore work passes:

• Employment pass
• Personalized Employment pass 
• Entre pass 
• Overseas Networks and Expertise pass (ONE Pass) 

• Singapore work visas for skilled and semi-skilled workers: Skilled and semi-skilled workers can enter and work in the country with these visas. The following are the types of work visas:

• S Pass Singapore
• Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Workers 
• Singapore Work Permit for Foreign Domestic Workers
• Singapore Work Permit for Confinement Nanny 
• Singapore Work Permit for Artists 

• Singapore work visas for trainees and students: These work visas permit trainees and students to enter and work in Singapore for a short period of time. The following are the different types:

• Training Employment Pass
• Work Holiday Pass
• Training Work Permit
• Short-term work pass

What are the steps to apply for a work visa in Singapore?

The following are the steps to apply for a work visa in Singapore:

Step 1: Get a valid job offer

Step 2: The employer applies for a work visa on your behalf

Step 3: Employer completes the fee payment

Step 4: Employer will receive an In-Principal Approval (IPA) on your behalf 

Step 5: The IPA letter will allow you to travel to Singapore

Step 6: Upon reaching Singapore, apply for a work visa 
 

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