Borders are now open and travel measures have finally eased up! While it's an exciting time for businesses and global mobility, there are some changes that employers need to take note of.
Let’s first take a look at what has changed:
Key changes to border measures in Singapore from 1 April 2022
For fully-vaccinated travellers:
- There will no longer be VTL flights or ferries. Fully vaccinated travellers coming to Singapore can take any flight or ferry, and will not be required to serve quarantine on arrival.
- There is no need to apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) before entering Singapore.
- On-arrival tests or Stay-Home Notice (SHN) are no longer required for fully vaccinated travellers.
- Those arriving by air or sea will still need to submit a negative pre-departure Covid test result taken within two days prior to departure for Singapore.
For non-fully-vaccinated travellers:
- Travellers who are not fully vaccinated are required to serve a 7-day SHN at their place of accommodation, and will be notified about an SHN exit PCR test.
For travellers in the Restricted category:
- Restricted travellers are required to take a PCR test prior to departure as well as on arrival in Singapore. They are also required to serve a 7-day SHN at a dedicated facility, and will be notified about an SHN exit PCR test.
Charging policies: Updates for vaccinated travellers
Under the new Vaccinated Travel Framework, charging policies will be streamlined for long-term travellers who develop the onset of symptoms or test positive for Covid-19 upon arrival in Singapore. Patients who are required to pay medical bills may tap on their healthcare financing arrangements, which may include medical coverage provided by employers.
There is no change to the charging policy for all Short-Term Pass Holders, and patients will remain responsible for all Covid-19 medical costs incurred throughout their stay in Singapore
Upcoming changes to S Pass eligibility
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will be raising qualifying salaries and levies for S Pass holders progressively from 1 September 2022, and S Pass quotas will be updated from 1 January 2023.
The S Pass minimum qualifying salary will be raised to S$3,000 in September 2022, and further increases are to be expected in 2023 and 2025. Older candidates will continue to require a higher salary to qualify. Exact salary values will be announced closer to the implementation date.
MOM will introduce COMPASS in September 2023
From September 2023, the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) will be implemented for new applicants, requiring them to pass a points-based holistic assessment based on criteria such as salary and diversity. This will also apply to pass renewals one year later from September 2024. The COMPASS framework will allow employers to select high-quality foreign professionals to join their organisations while improving workforce diversity.
Need help with Immigration issues?
With the increasing complexity of immigration requirements, navigating immigration procedures can be daunting. To learn more or to seek advice on employing foreign talents in Singapore, contact Transform Borders for a free consultation and we will help you prepare for your or your employees’ arrival in Singapore ahead of time!