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Work in Singapore

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With a thriving economy, plentiful career opportunities for skilled workers and a high standard of living, Singapore is an exciting destination for graduates looking to work abroad

Thanks to its modern culture and strategic location in Southeast Asia, Singapore is an attractive destination for international professionals. The city-state is celebrated for its efficient infrastructure, low crime rate and multicultural society, making it a safe and vibrant place to live and work.

English is the main language of business, and UK qualifications are widely recognised, which helps smooth the transition for British and other international graduates seeking opportunities abroad.

Outside of work, Singapore offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with world-class dining, cultural attractions, and easy access to neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.

When exploring the city, be sure to visit the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, a nature park featuring the Cloud Forest with its indoor waterfall and the Flower Dome, the world's largest glass greenhouse. Off the southern coast is Sentosa Island, home to Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, S.E.A. Aquarium, and three beautiful sandy beaches.

While the cost of living is relatively high, salaries are competitive, and the quality of life makes Singapore an appealing destination for those seeking a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Jobs in Singapore

Singapore has a highly developed free-market economy and consistently ranks among the least corrupt nations globally. Unemployment is low, and its port is one of the busiest in the world.

Exports play a vital role in the economy, especially in:

  • electronics
  • chemicals
  • pharmaceuticals
  • processed food and beverages
  • scientific instruments.

The country also relies heavily on its transportation, business, and financial services sectors, with the strongest labour markets in:

  • communication services
  • energy and utilities
  • real estate.

Singapore's workforce is multicultural, comprising Chinese, Malay, Indian, and expatriate workers from around the world.

Although the government aims to reduce reliance on foreign labour in lower-skilled roles, the nation continues to welcome qualified professionals through initiatives designed to attract and retain global talent.

This includes the Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) Overseas Network & Expertise Pass, which enables high earners and achievers to live in Singapore without needing to secure employment first.

While the government has introduced measures to prioritise local employment, skilled international workers remain in demand, particularly in:

  • engineering
  • financial services
  • healthcare
  • IT.

International companies with operations in Singapore include:

  • Accenture
  • AXA
  • BNP Paribas
  • Citibank
  • Deloitte
  • Deutsche Bank
  • EY
  • ExxonMobil
  • GlaxoSmithKline
  • HSBC
  • IBM
  • InterContinental Hotels Group
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • KPMG
  • Novartis
  • PwC
  • Procter & Gamble
  • Shell
  • Siemens.

Popular graduate jobs

  • Chemicals
  • Electronics
  • Financial services
  • Processed food and beverages
  • Telecommunications equipment.

Skills shortages

According to the Manpower Group's Employment Outlook Survey 2025, employers in Singapore continue to face skills shortages. The sectors with the strongest employment outlook include:

  • transport, logistics and automotive (48%)
  • healthcare and life sciences (38%)
  • communication services (28%)
  • energy and utilities (18%)
  • industrials and materials (17%).

How to get a job in Singapore

You do not need to be based in Singapore to apply for jobs - many websites allow you to search for work and apply online. Useful job sites include:

Tailor your application carefully - it's essential to check the company's website for specific application instructions. Some companies may require you to submit a CV and cover letter, while others may ask you to complete an online application form.

To ensure you adapt to local expectations, remember that the CVs are expected to be concise and achievement-focused, written in a formal tone. Punctuality and professionalism are highly valued in interviews.

Networking with people in your field who live in Singapore can also be an effective way to secure employment. This can be a great way to learn more about the job market and to establish a connection with potential employers. Registering with recruitment agencies is another good way to find job openings in the country.

Initial interviews are often held online, but large multinational companies may require you to attend an assessment centre in person.

English is the primary business language in Singapore, so all applications and interviews will be conducted in English.

For most work passes, such as the Employment Pass or S Pass, you'll need a confirmed job offer before moving to the country. However, some schemes, like the Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass, allow high-achieving professionals to relocate without one.

Summer jobs

Singapore's thriving tourism sector offers part-time and seasonal work in:

  • bars
  • hostels
  • hotels
  • restaurants.

Keep in mind that these jobs may be competitive and may not offer high pay.

If you're aged between 18 and 25, the Singapore Work Holiday Programme allows university students and recent graduates from ten countries (including the UK) to work in Singapore for up to six months on a holiday visa. This is a great option for gaining work experience in Singapore and exploring the country.

Volunteer opportunities are also plentiful, ranging from education and social care to conservation and community projects. Explore programmes from leading providers such as:

Teaching jobs

English is the official language of education in Singapore, so proficient speakers are in high demand.

To teach in public schools, you'll need to be approved by the Ministry of Education Singapore, while the large expat community means there are also opportunities in private and international schools. You'll usually need a Bachelors degree and a recognised teaching qualification.

The National Institute of Education (NIE) Singapore is the only teacher training centre in the country.

To teach English as a foreign language (TEFL) in Singapore, you typically need a TEFL qualification from a recognised provider, such as The TEFL Org or the International TEFL Academy, as well as prior teaching experience. Some institutions may also require you to have a Bachelors degree.

International schools often follow the same curriculum as in the UK. The school year begins in January, with a month-long holiday in June. Teachers are generally hired to start training in July.

Internships

Competition for internships and work experience opportunities is fierce, so be proactive and apply directly to companies. You should also consider applying speculatively, as many opportunities aren't advertised. Keep checking the websites of the organisations you're interested in for any intern vacancies that occur.

Examples of popular internship providers include:

You can also complete an internship as part of the Singapore Work Holiday Programme, as detailed above.

You can also gain experience through AIESEC, which offers students training and internship opportunities at both for-profit and non-profit organisations.

Please note that some internships may require you to hold a Training Employment or Work Holiday Pass. You can confirm the visa requirements with the host organisation or MOM.

Singaporean visas

All foreigners seeking to work in Singapore must hold a valid pass or work visa.

There are a variety of passes, and the one you need depends on your circumstances and level of skill. The types of passes include:

  • Employment Pass - for professionals, managers and executives earning at least S$5,000 (£2,930) a month.
  • EntrePass - for foreign entrepreneurs starting a business in the country.
  • Personalised Employment Pass - for high earners.
  • Work Permit for Migrant Worker - for semi-skilled international workers, such as those in construction or manufacturing.
  • S Pass - for mid-level skilled workers earning at least S$3,150 (£1,846) per month.
  • Training Employment Pass - for foreign professionals undergoing practical training.
  • Work Holiday Pass - for students and graduates aged 18 to 25 on six-month stays.
  • Miscellaneous Work Pass - for short-term assignments up to 60 days.

For details on visas, eligibility and assessment criteria, visit MOM - Work passes.

If you're not from the UK, contact the Singaporean embassy in your home country for information about work passes, visas and permits.

Language requirements

Singapore has four official languages:

  • English
  • Malay
  • Mandarin
  • Tamil.

English is the primary language of business and education, and most Singaporeans are proficient in multiple languages.

If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate proficiency for certain roles. While not essential, knowledge of Mandarin or Malay can be an advantage in customer-facing roles such as sectors such as:

  • healthcare
  • sales
  • tourism.

How to explain your qualifications to employers

UK qualifications are widely recognised in Singapore, and the two countries share similar education systems, so employers are generally familiar with British degrees and credentials.

Singapore's international workforce means that employers are accustomed to evaluating qualifications from around the world, making it easier for overseas applicants to showcase their academic background.

That said, it's always best to check with qualification requirements with the employer directly before applying for a job.

To explore whether your UK qualifications will be recognised, visit the UK National Information Centre (UK ENIC).

What it's like to work in Singapore

Singapore's professional environment is known for its efficiency, punctuality, and respect for hierarchy. Business interactions tend to be formal, with decisions often made in a top-down manner, especially in long-established sectors such as finance and engineering. Many multinational companies and startups foster more collaborative work cultures.

Most businesses operate between 9am and 6pm, with Monday to Friday as the standard working week. Work/life balance varies by industry, but Singapore's government has been promoting flexible work arrangements and employee wellbeing in recent years.

Employees are entitled to 11 days of annual leave. There are also the following 11 public holidays:

  • New Year's Day
  • Chinese New Year (two days)
  • Hari Raya Puasa
  • Good Friday
  • Labour Day
  • Polling Day
  • Vesak Day
  • Hari Raya Haji
  • National Day
  • Deepavali
  • Christmas Day.

Get the lowdown on working conditions in Singapore at MOM - Employment Practices.

While salaries are competitive, the cost of living in Singapore is high compared to other Asian countries. Indeed, according to Numbeo, the cost of living is around 24% higher in Singapore than in the UK, while rent is 56% higher. Many professionals opt for shared housing, which typically costs around S$700 (£400) per month, while one-bedroom apartments in central areas start at S$2,500 (£1,460).

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