MOM issues compliance reminder to employers

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? After arresting several foreign nationals in a sting operation, the Ministry of Manpower has issued a reminder to employers about making accurate, complete and truthful declarations on work pass applications.

What does the change mean? Employers are reminded that if convicted, they can be fined up to 20,000 Singapore dollars (about US$14,730) and/or jailed for up to two years per violation and lose their work pass privileges.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: All work passes, employment passes and S passes.
• Who is affected: Employers sponsoring foreign workers in Singapore.
• Business impact: The ministry is aggressively prosecuting employers who make false, inaccurate or misleading statements on their applications, as well as any individuals who assist in the making of false statements.

BAL Analysis: Employers should know that making false or inaccurate statements on work pass applications is an offense under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, that the Ministry of Manpower has been paying more attention to this type of violation and that convictions have been more frequent. Companies are encouraged to review their policies and practices in sponsoring foreign nationals to ensure that they are compliant with all immigration and labor regulations. In addition to facing fines and potential imprisonment, employers who are found to have made false statements will also be banned from hiring foreign employees. Individuals who assist in false declarations may be found liable for abetting the employer and face fines of up to 20,000 Singapore dollars and/or imprisonment for up to two years per charge.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in Singapore. For additional information, please contact singapore@bal.com.

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