Singapore's Work Permit Changes: HR News Updates March 2025
Posted on 26 March 2025 in Business | Suki Bajaj
Let’s take a look at Singapore’s top HR news and events in March, including the latest changes on Work Permit regulations, skills training initiatives, labour market insights, and emerging HR trends on workforce management and development.
In this guide, we’ll talk about:
Singapore Lifts Maximum Employment Period for Work Permit Holders
Effective Jul 1, work permit holders will no longer be subject to a maximum employment period. The maximum employment age will increase from 60 to 63, aligning with the local retirement age in accordance with the Employment Act. Additionally, the age limit for new work permit applicants will be raised to 61.
Read OnMore Singapore Firms Offering Flexible Work Options
Singaporean companies are increasingly adopting flexible work arrangements post-pandemic. MOM reported that the percentage of firms offering them increased from 68.1% in 2023 to 72.7% in 2024.
Read OnMatching Grants Aim to Close SME Skills Gap in Malaysia
SMEs in Malaysia struggle with skilled labour shortages. To address this, prioritising government-trained graduates and upskilling existing workers is crucial.
A matching grant was proposed to fund skills training, with the government covering 50% of student training costs for SMEs who will recruit, which would then be reinvested in a revolving fund.
Read OnSingapore Job Market Sees Growth
Singapore's resident employment rose by 8,800 in 2024, a turnaround from the previous year's decline. Growth was concentrated in high-skilled sectors, notably Financial and Insurance Services, which increased by 5,300.
Read OnNearly Half of Singapore Employers Fear Future Talent Gaps
Employers across Singapore are urged to prioritise skills over traditional qualifications to combat potential talent shortages due to rapid technological advancements.
A recent report found that 43% of Singaporean business leaders fear future talent gaps, with only 30% confident in their organisation's current skills and 46% having a clear view of their workforce's skills.
Read On