An exemption requires a qualifying overseas ICT
An employer may be exempt from MyCareersFuture advertising when the candidate qualifies as an overseas intra-corporate transferee under WTO GATS or an applicable free trade agreement to which Singapore is a party. Each FTA has its own definition. Under WTO GATS, the person must have worked for the company outside Singapore for at least one year before posting to its Singapore branch, affiliate or subsidiary.
Qualifying roles under WTO GATS
The candidate must be a manager, executive or specialist meeting the functional description below. A job title alone does not establish eligibility.
| Role | Required functions |
|---|---|
| Manager | Directs the organisation, department or subdivision; supervises supervisory, professional or managerial staff; can hire/fire or make other personnel decisions, such as promotion or leave authorisation; has discretion over daily operations. |
| Executive | Directs management; has broad decision-making discretion; receives only general supervision or direction from higher executives, directors or shareholders. |
| Specialist | Has advanced expertise and proprietary knowledge of the organisation’s services, research, equipment, techniques or management. |
Family and duration restrictions
Family members do not qualify for DP or LTVP unless an applicable FTA expressly covers them and the prevailing criteria are met. Entry is temporary and limited to the period allowed by the agreement. Overseas ICTs are generally ineligible for subsequent Singapore employment after their pass ends and for permanent residence. Employers may instead consider a regular Singapore EP; the regular application must satisfy FCF advertising unless another exemption applies.
Official source
Written independently from official MOM source material.