What Do Foreigners Need to Incorporate a Company and Hire Foreign Workers in Singapore?

If you’re a foreigner planning to start a company in Singapore, here’s what you need to know:

Company Incorporation

You can register and manage your company remotely without a visa. However, you must appoint a local director to comply with regulatory obligations. Osome can assist with this through our Nominee Director service.

Hiring Foreign Employees

To hire foreign workers, the appropriate work visas are required depending on skill level and role.

Employment Pass (EP)

For professionals, managers, and executives earning at least S$5,600 per month with acceptable qualifications. EP applicants must also score at least 40 points on the COMPASS assessment. Verified educational qualifications are also required.

S Pass

For mid-skilled staff earning at least S$ 3,300 per month (from September 2025 onwards) and meeting sector-specific quotas. Job positions must be advertised on MyCareersFuture.sg for at least 14 days.

Work Permit

For semi-skilled workers in specific sectors.

Additional Requirements for Hiring

• Quota and Levy: Applies to S Pass and Work Permit holders. EP holders do not have a quota or levy.
• Salary: Must meet minimum criteria for the respective work pass.
• Qualifications: Verified by accredited agencies or government portals.
• Fair Consideration Framework (FCF): Ensure fair hiring practices.
• Company Credentials: Must be credible with sufficient financial resources and active business operations.
• Medical Insurance: Required for S Pass and Work Permit holders.
• Work Pass Application: Must be applied for individually for each foreign employee.

All applications are evaluated by the Ministry of Manpower (MoM), and meeting all criteria does not guarantee approval.