Singapore is known for having a strong economy and many job opportunities across various industries. For those looking to work in Singapore without a university degree, it is possible to obtain a work visa under certain conditions.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through everything you need to know about getting a Singapore work visa without a degree in 2023.
Overview of Work Visas in Singapore
There are a few main categories of work visas in Singapore:
Employment Pass (EP)
The Employment Pass is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives earning at least S$4,500 per month. It requires applicants to have acceptable qualifications, but not necessarily a degree. Relevant work experience is also considered.
S Pass
The S Pass is for mid-level skilled staff earning at least S$2,500 per month. Applicants must have the necessary qualifications and work experience for the job. A degree is not mandatory.
Work Permit
The Work Permit is for foreign workers from approved countries performing low-skilled jobs. Certain occupations do not require higher education.
Training Employment Pass
The Training Employment Pass is for foreign trainees or interns to undergo practical training for professional, managerial, executive or specialist jobs in Singapore. Applicants must have at least a diploma or higher qualification.
Getting a Singapore Work Visa Without a Degree
Here are some of the main ways to obtain a work visa in Singapore without having a university degree:
Apply for an EP or S Pass
For jobs that meet the salary requirement, you can apply for an Employment Pass or S Pass based on your work experience and skills, even without a degree. Some examples are IT professionals, software developers, digital marketers, finance professionals, etc. Meeting the salary criteria is key.
Look for jobs that do not require a degree
Some common jobs that do not require a bachelor’s degree and are eligible for Work Permits include construction workers, domestic helpers, drivers, factory workers, waiters, retail assistants, and more.
Consider a Training Employment Pass
If you have at least a diploma and have found a company willing to hire and train you for a professional role in Singapore, you can apply for a Training Employment Pass. This allows you to work and get practical training on the job.
Apply as an entrepreneur/investor
Foreign entrepreneurs and investors who start businesses or invest substantial capital in Singapore can apply for visas like the EntrePass without needing a degree. Specific requirements apply.
Get certification in your field
Getting certified in your industry or area of expertise – for example, an IT certification or TEFL certification for teaching English – can sometimes offset the need for a bachelor’s degree when applying for Singapore work visas.
Application Process Overview
To summarize, the general process for applying for a Singapore work visa without a degree includes:
- Research suitable work visa types and check if you meet the requirements
- Find a company willing to hire you for a position that matches your skills and experience
- With your employer’s support, submit a work visa application to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
- Provide all required documents, including educational certificates, CV, proof of salary, medical checkup, etc.
- If approved, receive In-Principle Approval letter, then enter Singapore to get the actual work visa
- Report to MOM within specified period to complete formalities
- Begin working after all requirements are fulfilled
Conclusion
In 2023 and beyond, working in Singapore remains possible without having a university degree, if you can find employment that matches your skills and experience. The key is knowing the work visa options, meeting the mandatory income thresholds, and having an employer willing to support your application.
With the right preparations, persistence and paperwork, you can obtain the necessary work rights to live and build your career in Singapore.
References
Ministry of Manpower Singapore – https://www.mom.gov.sg
Employment Pass – https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/employment-pass
S Pass – https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/s-pass
Work Permit – https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-worker
Training Employment Pass – https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/training-employment-pass
Goh Jun Cheng is the chief staff writer for SingaporeAirport.com. Jun Cheng graduated with a degree in journalism from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.
He has over 5 years of experience writing about aviation, tourism, and lifestyle topics relevant to locals and visitors in Singapore. His articles provide insights into the rich culture, cuisine, and attractions of Singapore. Jun Cheng is an avid traveler who has visited over 15 countries.
When he is not writing or traveling, he enjoys photography, trying new foods, and hiking. As a longtime Singapore resident, Jun Cheng is passionate about sharing hidden gems and perspectives about his home country.
