Last updated: 2026-08-12
What salary, quota and levy rules apply to Work Permit holders?
Minimum salary requirements vary by sector and skill tier (R1/R2), and the employer must stay within its sector's Work Permit quota and pay a monthly foreign worker levy. Neither quota nor levy is paid by the worker — both are the employer's obligations.
Salary by sector and tier
Higher-skilled (R1) workers in sectors such as construction and marine shipyard face higher minimum salary requirements than basic (R2) workers. Confirm the current threshold for your sector and tier before committing to a role.
Quota and levy are the employer's cost
Quota determines how many Work Permits the firm may hold relative to its local workforce; the levy is a monthly fee MOM charges per worker. Both change over time, so check the current rates for your sector.
Related questions
- Who is eligible for a Work Permit in Singapore?
- What are the eligibility requirements for an S Pass?
- Can I upgrade from a Work Permit to an S Pass or Employment Pass?
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