If you are looking to apply or renew your Employment Pass (EP), 2026 is a year of note. Key changes have been made to the Complementarity Assessment (COMPASS) framework, which may affect your application. COMPASS is a points-based system used to assess EP applications, in which applicants are required to obtain at least 40 points […]
Expat remote working: things to note
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Remote working has transformed the modern workplace, allowing businesses and employees greater flexibility than ever before. For expats, remote work arrangements can be especially attractive, enabling them to live in one country while working for an employer or clients based elsewhere. However, cross border remote working is not without legal, tax, immigration, and employment complications. […]
Employee stock options and share awards are commonly used by companies to reward and retain employees. These schemes can offer significant financial benefits, particularly in startups and multinational corporations where equity compensation forms part of an employee’s remuneration package. However, employees leaving Singapore often face uncertainty regarding the tax treatment of their unexercised or unvested […]
As businesses continue expanding across borders, international assignments have become increasingly common for companies seeking to deploy talent globally. Whether sending employees overseas for short-term projects, regional leadership roles, or long-term expatriate assignments, employers must ensure that proper contractual protections are in place. An International Assignment Agreement is an important document that outlines the rights, […]
Many expats worry that applying for a Permanent Residence (PR) at the wrong time may reduce their chances. However, ICA does not have any data regarding whether a certain month or window has the highest success rate at achieving PR status. Instead, what is most important is how polished and ready your profile is when […]
As an expat in Singapore, it is important to know about your legal rights to repatriation. The Employment of Foreign Manpower Regulations (EFMR) is the primary legislation governing the employment of foreign workers. It mandates that all foreign employees hold valid work passes and establishes employer obligations regarding levies, medical insurance, housing, and repatriation. Foreign […]
For expatriates in Singapore, securing a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) or Dependant’s Pass (DP) for family members is often the final, crucial step in relocating. Having these applications rejected, or a renewal denied, can be incredibly stressful, creating uncertainty about your family’s ability to stay together. However, a rejection is not necessarily the end of […]
As an expatriate in Singapore, unforeseen crises, from severe personal illness to global travel restrictions, can suddenly make it impossible to fulfill your work duties. When this happens, your concern is not just contractual liability, but the security of your Employment Pass (EP). While business contracts often rely on “Force Majeure” clauses to handle such […]
As an expatriate, you may be looking for ways to engage with the community during your free time. While the terms of your Employment Pass (EP) strictly prohibit moonlighting or freelance work, volunteering is generally permitted and is a fantastic way to integrate into Singapore society. However, the line between “volunteering” and “illegal employment” can […]
For many expatriates in Singapore, the entrepreneurial itch or the desire to earn side income is strong. However, your Employment Pass (EP) comes with strict regulatory boundaries. The short answer is: No. If you hold a standard Employment Pass, you are legally tied to your sponsoring employer and are prohibited from engaging in any other […]
With the acceleration of globalisation, humans now have an unprecedented ability to seek better employment opportunities abroad. The Singapore government has painstakingly built up the nation to be safe and politically secure, with a stable financial climate. Hence, Singapore has become a popular destination for foreigners seeking better employment opportunities. Yet, an inconvenience stands in […]
Singapore, often lauded as a thriving economic hub with a high quality of life, consistently draws expatriates seeking new professional and personal horizons. While the city-state boasts high living standards, efficient infrastructure, and a multicultural environment, expats may encounter a unique set of challenges that can significantly impact their experience. 1. Education System and Children’s […]