IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The Ministry of Manpower has issued a reminder to employers and foreign workers about the rules for returning expired or old work pass cards. 

What does the change mean? Applicants who are renewing their work passes should check their notification letter to confirm whether they are required to return their existing work pass card. Those who are required to do so should make sure they are not damaged or punched with a hole. Multiple work pass cards should never be stapled, taped or fastened together.

  • Implementation time frame: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: Employment pass, S pass, personalized employment pass and training employment pass. All work pass and related passes such as dependant passes, long-term visit passes issued by the MOM.
  • Business impact: Work pass cards that are returned damaged or defaced cannot be updated and cards that are fastened together cannot be scanned.

Analysis & Comments: To avoid delays in renewing or updating a work pass, employers should check their notification letter to determine whether they are required to return an old work pass or passes to the ministry. They should also make sure that the passes are not damaged or fastened together.

Source: Deloitte LLP. Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.