Qualification routes
Academic, ITE and specified WSQ qualifications can qualify a worker. The MBF route requires at least S$1,600 fixed monthly salary and four years in Singapore as a Work Permit holder. Industry-specific WSQ certificates must match MOM’s list.
Hotel, retail and food services
Non-Malaysian workers in these industries generally also need level 4 in WPLN listening and speaking. Workers qualifying under MBF are exempt from this additional assessment.
Upcoming changes
The listed Community Care healthcare certificates are included from 1 December 2026 for the specified industries. Current higher-skilled monthly levy tiers are S$300, S$400 and S$600. The announced 2028 tier changes should not be treated as current rates.
Official sources
This independent summary by Apex Gateway is based on the official English guidance linked below. Refer to the source for the full requirements and subsequent updates.