Singapore offers OFWs a lot of benefits, such as better job opportunities due to its thriving economy. The country is also an attractive destination for Filipinos because it is very close to us proximity-wise. Moreover, Singapore has a supportive government that is very effective at drawing skilled foreign workers, and the fact that there are a lot of OFWs in Singapore already make it easier to work there, as there is already a sense of belonging to a Filipino community and it will be less lonely.
In this article, we’ll explore the top job opportunities available to OFWs in Singapore. We’ll also look into the application process, including the best websites to find jobs in the country.
The best jobs for OFWs in Singapore
Singapore offers a lot of opportunities for Filipino workers across several industries. Some of the top sectors where Filipinos can work in include the following:
- Health care – includes nurses, caregivers, and medical technologists. Singapore has an ageing population, so more medical care and assistance is needed.
- Information Technology (IT) – includes software developers, IT support specialists, and cyber security experts.
- Engineering – includes civil engineers, mechanical engineers and electrical engineers. Singapore continues to build infrastructure projects to improve living standards.
- Education – includes teachers, tutors, and education consultants. Singapore in particular is looking for English teachers and special subjects like math and science.
- Hospitality and Tourism – includes hotel staff, chefs, and front desk officers. Singapore’s tourism industry is booming. For example, it is constantly hosting international events, like concerts from the biggest artists in the world.
- Construction – includes skilled laborers, project managers and site engineers.
- Domestic Work – includes domestic helpers, nannies, and household managers. Singapore has an increasing number of high income families that require support to manage chores and childcare.
Challenges and Opportunities for Filipinos in Singapore
According to the Embassy of the Philippines in Singapore, there are an estimated 200,000 Filipinos living in the country. They are driven by the fact that Singapore promises, and delivers, higher salaries.
However, working in Singapore is not without challenges and limitations. For example, stay in Singapore is often limited by the terms in work passes. As a result, there is always that fear in the uncertain when working in Singapore.
Having said that, OFWs in Singapore have mentioned that they appreciated the skills development programs that their employers have provided them. They believe this could help them in their future endeavors. Plus, with high salary, when properly managed, comes high savings, and some OFWs have used these savings to start their own business when they come home.
Finding a Job in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide
Online Job Search
One of the most effective ways to find job opportunities in Singapore is through online searches. Here are some of the most popular and widely used platforms for job seekers in Singapore:
- Monster
- MyCareersFuture: This site is operated by the government of Singapore, so you can expect the information to be reliable.
- JobsDB
- Indeed Singapore
Working with an Employment Agency
Partnering with a recruitment agency has its advantages. For example, the recruiter can help you refine your CV, help you write excellent cover letters, and train you to do well in job interviews.
A recruitment agency can also give useful insights regarding the industry you are interested in working in. They can also teach you the culture and history of a particular company you want to be employed in.
Here’s a list of agencies that can help you land a job in Singapore:
- 3C Synergy: Specializes in jobs in construction, oil, and gas.
- Manpower: includes IT, engineering, customer service, sales, and marketing.
- Robert Half: offers banking, senior management, finance, project consulting, and technology.
- PERSOLKELLY
- Randstad: Focuses on UI/UX design, cybersecurity, accounting and finance, sales, marketing, and more.
Applying for a Work Visa
Securing a job offer is a significant achievement, but it’s not the final step in the hiring process. Next, you’ll need to apply for and obtain a Singapore work visa.
Fortunately, Singapore is a multicultural city that welcomes foreigners seeking work visas. To obtain one, you’ll need a job offer, pay a registration fee, and submit your application online. The visa can be processed in as little as seven days. Before applying, it’s crucial to determine the type of visa you qualify for, as they vary based on skills and qualifications. Work visas are generally categorized into three groups:
- Professionals
- Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers
- Trainees and Students
Overview of Passes for Professionals
For those considering working in Singapore, the Professionals category offers several types of passes, each tailored to different needs:
- Employment Pass: Suitable for foreign professionals, executives, and managers earning at least 5,000 Singapore Dollars (SGD) per month.
- EntrePass: Designed for foreign entrepreneurs aiming to start a business in Singapore.
- Personalized Employment Pass: Exclusively for high earners already holding an Employment Pass, offering significant flexibility in terms of employment and eligible industries.
- Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass: Reserved for top talents in fields such as arts and culture, sports, business, science and technology, and academia.
Passes for Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers
For those in skilled or semi-skilled roles, the following categories are available:
- S Pass: The most common visa for professionals earning at least 3,000 SGD per month.
- Work Permit for Migrant Workers: for semi-skilled workers in sectors like construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, or services.
- Work Permit for Performing Artists: for foreign performers working in bars, hotels, nightclubs, and similar entertainment venues.
Passes for Trainees and Students
- Training Employment Pass: for foreign professionals earning 3,000 SGD per month while undergoing practical training.
- Work Holiday Pass (under Work Holiday Programme): for students and graduates aged 18 to 25 who wish to work and holiday in Singapore for up to six months.
- Training Work Permit: for semi-skilled foreign trainees or students undergoing practical training in Singapore for up to six months.
As you can see, Singapore is open to hiring OFWs across a wide range of industries. If you are interested in earning a huge salary while living just a few hours from the Philippines, then Singapore might be the place for you.