A Letter of Consent (LOC) is a formal document issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) of Singapore. It permits individuals holding a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to work in Singapore. The LOC is not the same as a work visa, such as an Employment Pass (EP), S Pass or Work Permit, but it provides legal authorization for the foreigner to work. Without having to pay the foreign worker levy and not subject to quota requirement, this makes LOC an appealing option to employers in needs of manpower.
Eligibility Requirements for a Letter of Consent in Singapore
To apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC), the applicant must first meet the following eligibility requirements:
The applicant must be a holder of ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ with at least 3 months of pass validity remaining.
The applicant must have received a job offer from a Singapore employer who is authorized to employ foreign workers. The job offer must not be an objectionable occupation.
ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ holders such as spouse or unmarried children of a Singaporean or Permanent Resident are not allowed to work or self-employed in Singapore. LOC allows eligible pass holders to work in Singapore if they get a job offer from Singapore employer and comply to the regulations set by the MOM.
⚠️ Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) issued by MOM is different from the ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ and it is not eligible for a Letter of Consent. Similar to Dependant's Pass (DP) holder, in order for the LTVP holders to work in Singapore, they must get a work pass first.
LOC Application Process: What the Business Owner, Employment Agent, and Pass Holder Need to Know
It is always vital to understand the process and relevant information before the application started. This can ensure the efficiency of the LOC application process and avoid any unnecessary complication.
The turnover information of Singapore company for the past 3 years has to be updated to MOM.
The submission of the LOC application can only be done on behalf of the applicant by either the employer or the appointed employment agent. Both parties act as the facilitators in the application process, ensuring compliance with eligibility requirements and submitting accurate and complete information
The documents required for the LOC application include but not limited to:
Written consent (e.g. employment contract) between applicant and the Singapore employer to demonstrate the intent for employment.
A copy of valid passport's bio-data page.
A copy of valid ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ card
For selected professions, such as healthcare professionals, lawyers, and regional representatives, additional documents are required when applying for a LOC in Singapore. In the event that the supporting document is not in English, translation copy as well as the original document must be submitted together. These extra documents are necessary to ensure that applicants meet the specific qualifications and regulatory requirements for these specialized roles.
If the applicant involves in a food establishment, employers are also required to produce the online page of a food shop license issued by Singapore Food Agency (SFA) that showing validity period.
The duration of LOC is indicated by submitter during application. However, it is subject to the remaining validity of ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+. The LOC is also directly tied to the employer and the specific job position. LOC will become invalid if:
The ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ is cancelled or expires, or
The LOC holder switches jobs or employers
LOC Application Timeline and Outcome
The processing time for LOC application in Singapore is usually 1 week. It may need longer time if there are insufficient information or require more supporting documents. Candidates can only start working after the employer received the approved LOC.
If the application is approved, the LOC holder can legally work for the specific employer and job role for the duration of the LOC validity.
If the application is denied, the applicant must wait before submitting a new application or pursue other work pass options.
Important Notes for Renewal or Cancellation of LOC
When renewing or canceling a Letter of Consent (LOC), employers are advised to always adhere to guidelines set by MOM. It is crucial to ensure that all legal obligations are met to avoid penalties or delays in the renewal or cancellation process.
For LOC renewal,
Employer or appointed employment agent may start the renewal up to 6 months before the LOC expires.
The minimum 3 months validity on the ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ is still required for renewal.
The processing time will take about 1 week and may vary depending on the case.
If the LOC holder ceased employment in Singapore or change to a new employer,
Current employer has to seek tax clearance from Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) for the LOC holder in advance, as the processing time is within 21 days.
Current employer has to ensure all employment matters with the LOC holder has been properly resolved including the payment of salary, before cancellation of LOC.
Current employer or appointed employment agent may submit the cancellation request up to 14 days in advance, but not later than 1 week after the LOC holder last day of notice.
New employer must apply for the candidate to obtain a LOC.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Letter of Consent from MOM is a crucial step for employers to hire ICA-issued LTVP/LTVP+ holders in Singapore. Understanding the eligibility requirements and aware of the application timeline ensure a smooth onboarding process. Employers have to always stay compliance with regulations set by the authority to avoid revocation of the LOC or facing any other legal consequences.
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