Renewing a work permit is crucial for foreign workers in Singapore to maintain legal employment status. Understanding the work permit renewal process is essential for both employers and workers, as timely renewal avoids disruptions. In this guide, we will walk you through the renewal process, requirements, and potential complications you should be aware of.
Understand the Work Permit Renewal Timing
The first step in renewing a work permit is recognizing the need to start early. Employers should closely monitor the work permit expiry date. Typically, you will also receive an email notification from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reminding you that the renewal is due. This can happen anytime between 7 to 12 weeks before the pass expires. Employers have to login to the Ministry of Manpower’s WP Online portal (WPOL) to download the work permit renewal notice as soon as it is available. For most of the cases, the foreign worker will be required to undergo medical checkup. Thus, starting the renewal application well in advance is crucial. Any delays in the renewal can result in the worker being without a valid permit, which may lead to penalties or disruptions in employment.
Renew Expiring Work Permits for Foreign Worker Who Plan to Travel Out of Singapore
If a foreign worker plans to travel overseas, they must ensure that their expiring work permit is renewed before leaving Singapore. Failing to do so may result in overstaying fines or difficulties re-entering Singapore without a valid work pass. Workers should coordinate travel plans with the renewal process to avoid complications.
WP Renewal Requirements and Documents
To renew a work permit, both the employer and foreign worker must be consent and meet the work permit renewal requirements.
This includes:
Getting the work permit renewal form endorsed
Completing the medical checkup at local clinic
Ensuring the worker's passport remains valid to cover the intended period of employment
Maintaining the required medical insurance for the worker.
Additional documents may be required, such as an updated security bond from an insurance company if the candidate is a non-Malaysian worker.
Employer’s Responsibilities During the WP Renewal Process
There are various types of work permits in Singapore, and each has its own eligibility criteria for renewal. For instance, workers in certain sectors may need to meet additional requirements or submit extra documentation. It’s essential for employers to verify that the worker qualifies for renewal based on their current job and employment conditions.
Employers play a significant role in the renewal process by ensuring that:
The worker is employed in an eligible sector.
The foreign worker quota is complied with.
Necessary payments, including the work permit renewal fee, are made.
All required documentation is submitted.
Employers should be diligent in following the renewal steps and avoid violations during the process.
Update OFWAS before Submission of WP Renewal
Employers have to update MOM on the workers' residential address and contact information through Online Foreign Worker Address Service (OFWAS), before they can complete the WP renewal process in WPOL.
Renewal Fee, Late Renewal and Penalties
The work permit renewal fee is SGD 35.
Employers should request for extension if they can't renew the work permit on time. Failing to do so will lead to levy penalties and overstaying fines. During this time, employers are still liable for the levy associated with that foreign worker. To avoid these penalties, it is crucial to follow the recommended renewal timelines and submit the application in a timely manner.
What to Expect After WP Renewal
The outcome for WP renewal is immediate. The worker can continue their job in Singapore without interruption once the renewal is successful.
Employers must check the instruction in notification letter from WPOL. Workers will likely be advised to continue using the existing work permit card. If worker is required to receive new work permit card, he or she might need to book appointment and visit MOM Service Centre for card registration. MOM will inform on the delivery of the new physical card after verifying the submitted documents. The existing should be cut in half and discarded to prevent misuse.
Contact Us for Assistance
If you need help navigating the work permit renewal process, feel free to contact us. We can assist with the work permit renewal application, clarify any questions about work permit, and guide you through ensuring a successful work permit renewal for your foreign employees.
By staying ahead of the work permit expiry date, employers and foreign workers can avoid penalties and continue working legally in Singapore. Timely renewal ensures smooth continuation of employment and full compliance with all legal requirements.
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