IMPACT – MEDIUM

Authorities have taken steps to give employers more flexibility when requesting approval to bring employees from mainland China.

Key Points:

  • From Feb. 8, 2020, 11:59 p.m., all foreign employees (including dependents and those with in-principle approvals), who have been in mainland China within the last 14 days must have MOM’s approval before entering Singapore. This applies to all nationalities.
  • In an email sent to employers on Feb. 14, the Work Pass Division said that the application window for employers to submit their request for MOM’s approval has been changed to give them more flexibility in arranging employee flights.
  • Submissions are now open daily from 12:01 p.m. and close at 12 p.m. the next day. Requests received during this period are for arrivals within seven days after the submission closes (e.g., for arrivals in Singapore from Feb. 16 to Feb. 22, the request can be submitted from Feb. 14, 12:01 p.m. to Feb. 15, 12 p.m.). To check when to submit your request, please click here.
  • Employers must not arrange for foreign employees to travel to Singapore until they have obtained MOM’s approval. Otherwise, the employee’s pass will be revoked immediately, and the employer’s work pass privileges will be suspended.

Analysis & Comments: The response to coronavirus in Singapore and other countries continues to evolve. Deloitte will alert clients to additional changes or restrictions as information becomes available.

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