Expatriates who plan on entering Singapore through a corporate immigration program will need to heed the new changes to the country's work permit requirements, which take effect in September, according to the Singapore Ministry of Manpower.

Those looking for an S Pass and Employment Pass will need to have a higher salary in order to sponsor a dependent, as the minimum has increased to S$4,000 (USD $3,163). Before the government's changes, the lowest level was S$2,800 (USD $2,232). If the transferee does not have the new fixed rate or higher, they will be unable to bring dependents into the country with them.

Other changes are important for transferees planning to bring extended family with them. Those with a P1 Pass will not be able to bring in their spouse's parents, but will be able to bring their parents, children and their spouse. Those with a P2 Pass won't be able to bring their parents or their spouse's parents. Spouses and children will still be allowed.

The Ministry of Manpower added that those who are already in Singapore before September will not be affected by these rules. However, corporations may want to reexamine their plans with respect to transferees planning to bring family members with them.

Filed under: Immigration Services