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Is it hard to get a job in Singapore as an expat?

Author

Rachel Hickman

Published Mar 11, 2026

Is it hard to get a job in Singapore as an expat?

Finding a job in Singapore as an expat can be difficult. The number of foreign workers in Singapore dropped by 32,000 last year, which is the biggest decrease in 15 years. This is being linked to tightening of employment laws with a specific aim at matching locals to job vacancies first.

What is a good expat salary in Singapore?

The average pay package for for a mid-level expatriate in Singapore fell by $7,284 a year, and now stands at $225,171 annually – the 17th highest in the world, ECA International said.

Where do expats work in Singapore?

6 Popular Job Areas for Expats in Singapore

  • #1 Finance Sector. Singapore is one of Asia’s major financial hubs.
  • #2 Education.
  • #3 Information Technology (IT)
  • #4 Pharmaceutical/Life-Sciences.
  • #5 Hospitality and Tourism.
  • #6 Energy / Construction / Real Estate / Infrastructure / Shipping.
  • Transferable Skills.
  • Final Tips.

How can a foreigner find a job in Singapore?

This being said, Singapore has a very competitive job market, especially if you’re a foreigner….If you’re asking how to find a job in Singapore as a foreigner ― this is a good place to start your job search!

  1. JobsDB. Singapore’s most popular job search website.
  2. JobStreet.
  3. STJobs.
  4. Monster.
  5. MyCareersFuture.

How is Singapore for expats?

Singapore is a fantastic destination for expats and their families, with wonderful food, a vibrant culture and so much opportunity. Just make sure you are well prepared, with a job offer secured, international health insurance prepared and an apartment ready to help you settle in quickly.

Is Singapore hiring foreigners now 2021?

NDR 2021: Firms hiring foreigners to pay all locals at least $1,400; progressive wages for retail, more sectors. SINGAPORE – Firms employing foreign workers will soon be required to pay all their local employees a monthly salary of at least $1,400.

What is a typical expat package?

While less common, one might also find the expat package includes the cost of membership to a local golf club, yacht club, gym, etc. – and include subscriptions to magazines, newspapers and trade journals of choice. Standard benefits such as bonuses, annual leave, medical leave and insurance should always be available.

Why are expats paid more?

These differences are largely caused by three factors: The Cost of Living difference between the Home Country (country of origin) and Host Country (where they work) The Relative Hardship difference between Home and Host Country.

How is expat life in Singapore?

The high number of expats in Singapore gives life a fast pace and there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Besides shopping on Orchard Road and enjoying the nightlife at Marina Bay, expats often join social clubs such as the American Association or the British Club to make connections.

What is Expat short for?

According to Wikipedia, “an expatriate (often shortened to expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country other than that of the person’s upbringing. The word comes from the Latin terms ex (‘out of’) and patria (‘country, fatherland’)”.

Does Singapore hire foreigners?

Under the Employment Act, a foreigner must have a valid work visa to be able to work in Singapore. If you wish to hire a foreigner, you will have to apply for a valid work pass or work permit on his/her behalf before he/she can commence employment with you.

Can foreigners freelance in Singapore?

Can a foreigner be self-employed in Singapore? In Singapore, you can only be legally self-employed if you’re a permanent resident or citizen. Foreigners are not allowed to work without a Work Permit, Employment Pass, or S Pass.