Can I Work in Singapore With a Student Pass? (2024)

Singapore is a great place to get an education — but it’s also an expensive one. Getting a job in your spare time might be a way to sustain yourself. Question is, can you work in Singapore with a student pass?

Read also: Cost of Living in Singapore: How Much Can Foreigners Save?

Today, we’ll talk about:

  • Types of student passes and their eligibility for work
  • When and for how long you can work
  • Frequently asked questions about working on a student pass
  • Types of work available
  • How you can increase your chances of getting a job in Singapore

Types of Student Passes in Singapore

Student passes fall under two broad categories: short-term and long-term. Each type comes with its set of restrictions when it comes to working, but here’s a quick summary:

Short-term Student PassLong-term Student Pass
Duration of stay3 months or lessMore than 3 months
PurposeCertificate courses
Private diploma courses
Bachelor degree
Master’s degree
Private institutional programs
Eligibility for work?Not eligibleNot eligible if:
– You’re not studying in any of the approved institutions
– You’re an exchange student in Singapore

Eligible depending on:
– When you want to work
– The purpose of your student pass
– The institution you’re studying at

When Can a Student Pass Holder Work in Singapore? And For How Long?

MOM has strict regulations for foreign students working in Singapore, but it’s not impossible. Here’s a summary:

During school vacations or while waiting for resultsDuring the school term
Can you work?YesYes
Work eligibility criteria
  • Full-time matriculated student registered in any of the approved institutions
  • Student pass issued by ICA
  • Above 14 years old
  • Full-time matriculated student registered in any of the approved institutions
  • Student pass issued by ICA
Working hoursNo limitMax 16 hours per week
Additional RequirementsNoneIndustrial attachment program conducted by the educational institution you are tied to, and contributes towards your graduation

Commonly Asked Questions About Working on a Student Pass

1. Can I work while waiting for my results?

Yes, if you’ve fulfilled the above work eligibility criteria. You can work as long as the waiting period falls within your vacation break.

2. Do I need to seek approval from MOM or take any action before starting work legally?

No, as long as you meet all the eligibility criteria.

Just note that if you want to take on any industrial attachments that don’t contribute to your graduation, you’ll need to take a Leave of Absence and apply for a separate work pass.

3. How long can I continue staying in Singapore after my Student Pass expires?

90 days. That’s the length of the Short-Term Visit Pass you’ll get after your Student Pass expires. This gives you a bit of a buffer to apply for a separate work pass or figure out your plans after graduation.Just note that you’re not allowed to work while on a Short-Term Visit Pass!

4. My student pass has expired/will be expiring. Am I allowed to remain in Singapore to seek employment after graduation?

Upon expiry of your student pass, you can apply for a 1-year Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) at the ICA to remain in Singapore to find employment. Once you have found employment, your company will apply for a Work Pass for you from the MOM. Your LTVP will be cancelled once your Work Pass is issued.

Types of Work You Can Take Up with a Student Pass

There are no restrictions on getting a job during your vacation, so you can feel free to apply wherever they’ll accept you.

And if you’re hoping to work 16 hours a week during your school term, there’s still a large variety of jobs that you can try. We’ve put together a list of part-time jobs for students, so you can check out one that fits your schedule the best.

Some examples include:

  • Event hosts/helpers
  • Singers
  • Warehouse packers
  • Tutors

Note that most physical part-time jobs in Singapore — such as sales assistants and F&B crew — require you to work at least 3 shifts a week. This means Student Pass holders may not qualify for these jobs under the 16 hour rule.

That said, there’s still another way you can work if you want to: take on a side hustle that you can do from home.

As long as you have a skill, anyone can work remotely from home and still cobble together a decent income.

8 Things That Can Increase Your Chances of Employment

Job hunting in Singapore isn’t the easiest given the competitive environment. Here are eight things that can improve your employability:

1. Diversify Your Job Search

Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: apply for jobs through multiple places. Check on job portals like Gumtree or Indeed SG, or look on your school’s job portal and career intranet. Professional social media sites like LinkedIn are also a great way to get yourself noticed by recruiters and head-hunters in the industry.

Share your portfolio on social media, keep your status on Linkedin as “Open to work,” and constantly update your profile. You can also actively participate in forums, share opinions, and comment on posts you resonate with to expand your presence.

2. Don’t Rule Out Start-ups and SMEs

Small businesses may not provide you with a specialized role, but it’s more flexible with work arrangements and can provide you with a broader experience than joining an MNC would. SMEs also make up 99% of Singapore’s enterprises and hire 65% of the workforce! That means widening your job search to include SMEs may land you a job much faster.

3. Advertise Your Bilingualism

You’re likely already bilingual as a foreign student studying in Singapore. Take advantage of this by applying to roles that require the languages you speak. Customer service, translation, or hospitality are all options here.

4. Publish Yourself Online

Make yourself easily discoverable by recruiters and headhunters on search engines. Showcase your unique point of view, portfolio, or past works to skyrocket your employability!

Here’s what you can do:

  • Start a blog or write as a guest for other blogs within the industry you’re interested in.
  • Produce Youtube videos that highlight your strengths.
  • Develop a podcast for an audience looking to gain insights into a specific subject matter.
  • Actively contribute and update on LinkedIn (commenting on other posts, sharing information, writing and posting articles, etc.)

5. Expand Your Professional Network

Building a wide and diverse network is a great way to boost your job search. Try to meet one new person a day or even follow up with someone you’ve met before. You never know how a relationship could open new doors for you!

Step out of your normal social circle and engage with new people. Join clubs and consider hosting your own events or even starting your own personal interest group to build a new network of friends.

6. Volunteer

Are there any causes you resonate with? Volunteering at a local charity or organisation is an ideal way to build your skills and expand your network. Volunteering adds value by demonstrating that you have various attractive transferable skills such as time management, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

7. Develop Yourself Professionally

While hunting for a job, you can always increase your employability by obtaining new certifications and skills. There are many reputable online learning platforms such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Google Scholar.

Taking approved courses on these platforms can even offset some credits for your next semester, which is an added bonus.

And since studies show that you’ll need soft skills to thrive in the new digital economy, you can also work on aspects like:

  • People management
  • Coordinating with others
  • Negotiation
  • Emotionally

8. Consider Unpaid Internships

Certain school term breaks only span 1-2 months, making these ideal periods for taking on unpaid internships. Think of it as an opportunity to gain work experience, build your network, and develop your CV for future job hunts.

Read also: A Guide to Part-Time Jobs for Students in Singapore

Can I Work in Singapore With a Student Pass? (2024)

FAQs

How long can I stay in Singapore with a student pass? ›

Generally, graduates will be granted a Short-Term Visit Pass after their student pass has been cancelled/expired, this visa will allow students to stay in Singapore for an up to 90 days period.

Can mother of student pass work in Singapore? ›

Parents accompanying a child studying in Singapore

After you have been in Singapore for a year, you can find a job and your employer can apply for a Work Permit for you. Your employer needs to apply for the permit using WP Online. Under the Work Permit, you are: Able to work in any sector.

Is student pass same as visa for Singapore? ›

In Singapore, a student visa is referred to as a student pass, and universities in this country are known as Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL). As an international student in Singapore, intending to attend any academic program lasting more than 30 days, you must apply for this student pass.

Can I have student pass and work permit at the same time? ›

If you receive an invitation to apply, you can apply for an IEC work permit even if you have a valid study permit. You can also apply for a study permit if you have a valid work permit through IEC.

Can student pass holder marry in Singapore? ›

If you are a current or former Work Permit holder who wishes to marry a Singapore citizen or PR, you must apply for approval from MOM . However, you don't need to apply for approval if: You are now holding an EP or S Pass. You once held an EP or S Pass as the last work pass you held in Singapore.

Can I bring my family to Singapore on student visa? ›

Dependents. The spouse and children of full-time graduate research students can get sponsorship from the university for a Social Visit Pass to stay in Singapore. The graduate students should get their spouses and children to apply for an entry visa at Singapore's embassy.

Can student pass give birth in Singapore? ›

S Pass holder is allowed to give birth in Singapore while holding the work pass. If you are an eligible Employment Pass or S Pass holder, your company can apply for a Dependant's Pass for your baby born in Singapore. You will need to get a passport for the baby and apply for the pass within 6 weeks of birth.

Who is not allowed to work in Singapore? ›

A3: Foreigners who are issued SPs are not allowed to work in Singapore. If a foreigner wishes to work in Singapore, he/she is required to apply for a work pass from MOM. SP holders who are found working without a valid work pass would have committed an offence and will be dealt with under the relevant laws.

Does Singapore reject student pass? ›

The success rate for Singapore student visas is 90%.

How can I convert my Singapore student visa to work visa? ›

For any international student planning to gain employment after graduation, obtaining a work visa of Singapore is required. To obtain a post-study work visa, students are required to apply for a Long Term Social Visit Pass followed by a working pass.

How much a student can earn in Singapore? ›

The average salary for Students is SGD 1,800 per month in the Singapore, Singapore. The average additional cash compensation for a Students in the Singapore, Singapore is SGD 1, with a range from SGD 1 - SGD 1.

How many hours can a student work in Singapore? ›

Full-time diploma students are allowed to work part-time for up to 16 hours per week during school term, and working full-time during vacation period. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) put in an exemption so that applying for work permits are not necessary. You may refer to MOM's website for more information.

How can I convert my student permit to work permit? ›

Documents required to convert a student visa into a work permit
  1. proof of residence (the current student visa);
  2. proof of employment (the job offer) when applying for an employee permit;
  3. information about the employer (name, company records, phone number and email address, VAT returns and others);
8 Aug 2022

Can international students get PR in Singapore? ›

Another way to obtain Singapore PR is to apply if you are a student studying in Singapore. Foreign students may apply to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority or ICA. They must have resided for at least 2 years at the time of application, have passed a minimum of 1 national exam or are in the integrated program.

How much bank balance is required for Singapore student visa? ›

The amount is S$5,000 in the form of a Banker's Guarantee from any established bank in Singapore or Cashier's Order. A processing fee of S$30 is required for every application submitted to ICA.

Can I marry my girlfriend on a student visa? ›

The good news is that a foreign student who is in the United States to study on a Student Visa can marry and immigrate to the United States.

Can Work Permit get pregnant in Singapore? ›

Not get pregnant or deliver a child in Singapore during the validity of their Work Permit unless they are already married to a Singapore citizen or permanent resident with MOM's approval. This applies even after their Work Permits have expired, been cancelled or revoked.

Can my wife come on a student visa? ›

Only the spouse (limited to one) and unmarried minor children (under 21 years old) of an F-1 or J1 student are eligible to enter the United States in F2/J2 dependent status. Frequently, international students wish to invite their parents or other family members to the U.S. to attend graduation or for a visit.

Is Singapore cheap to study? ›

On an average, the cost of studying in Singapore has been found to be around SGD 25,000 and S$40,00 or approximately 20 lakh INR. The cost of studying; tuition fees, living expenses, other expenses, etc.

Can international student work part time in Singapore? ›

According to the Ministry of Manpower, Singapore, international students on a Student Pass in Singapore are eligible to work part-time for about 16 hours a week during term and for unlimited hours during vacation, provided: They are a registered full-time student in one of the approved institutions.

How to extend student pass in Singapore? ›

Renewal Application

If you have a valid Student's Pass and wish to continue taking the same course at the same school, you may renew your Student's Pass online using the e-Service.

What happens if you get pregnant on a student visa? ›

The student may choose to take a suspension of studies, or they may wish to return as soon as possible after giving birth. The Plan will detail when the student is likely to commence any period of absence and the expected date of return.

Does a baby born in Singapore get citizenship? ›

Individuals born in Singapore automatically receive Singaporean citizenship at birth if at least one parent is a Singaporean citizen, except if the father is a foreign diplomat or enemy alien and birth occurred in occupied territory.

Can student pass holder get pregnant? ›

Female Student's Pass holders are not allowed to become pregnant. Consuming of drugs or participating in political activities is prohibited. Students shall not engage in any activity, criminal or otherwise, which is inconsistent with the purpose for which the Student's Pass has been issued.

What is the minimum salary for S Pass? ›

Only eligible candidates will be considered for an S Pass. Criteria include earning a fixed monthly salary of at least $3,000, which is benchmarked against the top one-third of our local associate professionals and technicians ( APT ) salaries by age.

What's the difference between S Pass and work permit? ›

Well, in short, the E-Pass and the S-Pass are two separate work passes meant for professionals with high-level qualifications and technicians with mid-level skills. On the other hand, the Work Permits are unskilled workers with a lower-level of skills-set, working in labourers industries.

Can I work in Singapore without employment pass? ›

All foreigners who intend to work in Singapore must have a valid pass (commonly known as a work visa) before they start work. If you are engaging foreigners to work in Singapore, you must ensure that they hold a valid pass.

Is it difficult to get s pass in Singapore? ›

To obtain an Employment Pass in Singapore, young graduates from approved institutions must earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$5,000. Additionally, salaries must match the experience and job position. Therefore more experienced applicants need higher salaries to be eligible for the Employment Pass.

What are the disadvantages of studying in Singapore? ›

Disadvantages of studying in Singapore
  • The lack of large blocks of practice, as provided, for example, all programmes of universities of applied Sciences, the Netherlands, programmes Co-op in Canada and many programs in Britain and the United States. ...
  • Universities do not approve of the work off-campus.

Who can sponsor student pass? ›

The local sponsor must be a Singapore citizen (SC) or permanent resident (PR) and aged 21 or older. Companies and organisations cannot act as sponsors. If you have an SC or PR parent or step-parent, he/she must act as the local sponsor of your Student's Pass application.

Is Singapore good for international students? ›

High quality education: Singapore has one of the world's top ranked education systems. Singapore's education system has proven to be one of the best in the world. Its students are continually ranked highly, especially in the areas of math and science.

What is the lowest salary in Singapore? ›

General Employee Pay Regulations in Singapore
  • Minimum wage. There is no minimum wage in Singapore, except for workers in the cleaning and security guard industries.
  • Frequency. Salaries are paid monthly within seven days of the end of the salary period (14 days for overtime payments).
  • Payday.

How much is rent in Singapore for students? ›

If you want to rent a student residence or a student apartment inSingapore, you can expect rent prices between 37 SGD and 2,752 SGD, according to Nestpick database, How big is student housing in Singapore?

Is Singapore cheap to live for students? ›

If you choose to live on campus, in residence halls, you can expect to pay approximately SGD 400-500 per month. A typical student dormitory can house four to six students. You can also choose to live in a rented off-campus accommodation on your own or on a shared basis with other occupants.

What is the cheapest university in Singapore for international students? ›

List of some of the cheap and affordable universities in Singapore:
  • National University of Singapore (NUS)
  • Nanyang Technological University.
  • Singapore Management University.
  • Singapore University of Technology & Design.
  • Republic Polytechnic.
  • Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.
  • Temasek Polytechnic.

How much does Singapore pay per hour? ›

The average salary per hour in Singapore is $23.36 per hour.
...
The Average Salary In Singapore Is $4,000.
IndustryMedian Gross Monthly Income From Work (Excluding Employer CPF)
Manufacturing4,238
Construction3,792
Services4,000
Wholesale Retail Trade3,688
13 more rows
21 Sept 2021

How can I make money fast in Singapore? ›

Some of these can even help you accumulate invaluable work experience.
  1. 1) Become a freelance content writer. ...
  2. 2) Provide tuition classes. ...
  3. 3) Test websites and apps. ...
  4. 4) Take part in paid focus groups. ...
  5. 5) Food delivery rider. ...
  6. 5.5) Get an internship. ...
  7. Try out some of these different ways to earn money in Singapore!

Can I switch from student visa to Skilled Worker visa without completing a degree course? ›

You cannot switch from the Short-term student visa to the Skilled Worker route.

Can work permit be rejected? ›

The reasons for work permit refusals often depend on the applicant's circ*mstances. However, generally speaking, refusal letters can be issued for the following reasons: You were not able to demonstrate that you will be able to adequately perform the work you seek.

Can I work after study before applying work permit? ›

You can work full-time while waiting for a decision on your post-graduation work permit (PGWP) application if, at the time you submitted your application, all of the following applied to your situation: You had a valid study permit. You had completed your program of study.

Which country gives PR easily to students? ›

Canada, Germany, Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand hold the top-most positions for being the best immigration-friendly countries for Indian students. They are also known for being easy PR countries for Indian students.

What is the minimum salary for PR in Singapore? ›

There is no minimum salary requirement to apply for PR. You just need to be an S Pass or Employment Pass holder to become eligible.

Which is the easiest country to get PR? ›

However, immigration is never easy, especially if you have no desirable skills or enough financial means.
...
Easiest Countries to Immigrate To
  • Spain.
  • Paraguay.
  • Germany.
  • Montenegro.
  • Czechia.
  • Thailand.
  • Canada.
  • Portugal.

How long is student pass valid in Singapore? ›

If you intend to stay back in Singapore and look for employment, you must convert your student pass into a visit pass. The visit pass is valid for one year during which you have to find employment in the country. If you are successful in procuring employment, you or your employer can apply for an employment pass.

Can I stay in Singapore after my student pass expires? ›

Under regulation 8(5)(f) of the Immigration Regulations, should you intend to leave Singapore and only return after the expiry of the Pass issued to you, you are required to surrender this Card to the Immigration Officer at the Checkpoint at the time of your departure. 4.

How long can you stay in Singapore on student visa? ›

This particular visa lets them stay in Singapore for a maximum of 90 days duration, during which they can explore various job options available out there. But one can only search for job options, not take up employment while being on this visa.

How long can a student stay on a student visa? ›

The maximum length of stay for a Student visa will generally not exceed 5 years.

How long can I stay in Singapore after my s pass expires? ›

Most people who have had their EP cancelled will spend the remaining 30 days in Singapore to complete any remaining formalities because the 30-day validity period of the STVP may not be extended. Those who have plans to continue working and living in Singapore may apply for jobs during this period.

How long can you stay on a student visa? ›

How long ist an F-1 visa valid? An F-1 visa is issued for up to 5 years. However, the residence status in the Unitd States is valid for the entire duration of the study and is noted on the I-20 form.

Can I stay in Singapore for 6 months? ›

The period of stay permitted is at the discretion of the Immigration Officer upon arrival at the Singapore Changi Airport. It is normally between 14 to 30 days.

What you Cannot do on a student visa? ›

A student visa does not permit you to work in a position that would fill a permanent full-time vacancy. This means any work you undertake on a full-time basis where permitted, for example after completion of your course as outlined below, must be in a fixed-term position (i.e. the contract ends on a certain date).

What happens if I work 21 hours on a student visa? ›

If your program doesn't have scheduled breaks

Working more than 20 hours per week is a violation of your study permit conditions. You can lose your student status for doing this, and may not be approved for a study or work permit in the future. You may also have to leave the country.

Which visa is best for student? ›

The "F" visa is for academic studies. An F1 visa is issued to students who are attending an academic program or English Language Program. F1 visas are by far the most common form of international student visa in the U.S. F1 students must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status.

What is the salary of S Pass holder in Singapore? ›

The minimum qualifying salary for new S Pass applicants will go up to S$3,000 from the current S$2,500. In the financial services sector, a higher minimum qualifying salary of S$3,500 will be introduced.

What is the benefit of S Pass in Singapore? ›

The S Pass allows mid-level skilled staff to work in Singapore. Candidates need to earn at least $3,000 a month.

What happens if you work on a student visa? ›

The short answer is yes, international students can work in the USA while studying but there are some restrictions. International students who have an F-1 and M-1 visa are allowed to work on-campus and in specified training programs. Students are not allowed to work off-campus during their first academic year.

What happens if I work more than 20 hours on a student visa? ›

Visa restrictions on working

If you are studying full-time at degree level, during term-time you may not work more than 20 hours per week. If you work more than 20 hours in any one week you will be breaching your visa and this could prevent you from obtaining a new visa in the future or completing your studies.

What happens if you overstay your student visa? ›

Staying in the U.S. beyond your allowable grace period is also a violation of F-1 regulations. If your SEVIS (or I-20) is terminated OR you overstay your grace period, you could be accruing unlawful presence. This can lead to arrest and deportation proceedings.

How long do you have to live in Singapore to get citizenship? ›

1. Have been a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) for at least two years and are aged 21 and above (you can apply together with your spouse and any unmarried children aged below 21 born to you within the context of a legal marriage or legally adopted by you).

What happens if you overstay in Singapore? ›

Should you be guilty of overstaying in Singapore for up to 90 days, you may be sentenced to a maximum fine of $4,000 and/or a jail term of up to 6 months. Overstaying beyond 90 days may result in a maximum of 6 months' imprisonment and a minimum of 3 strokes of the cane (or up to a $6,000 fine if you cannot be caned).

How can I stay permanently in Singapore? ›

All permanent residence applications must be submitted online using the e-Service. Applicants can either key in the application details online, or download and complete the PR application form offline before submitting it online.

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