What are employment rights for expats?

Are you an expat currently working or considering a role here? Do you know your obligations under the Singapore employment law? Hear from the team at Legal Expat Singapore why it’s important to understand your employment rights as an expat.

Singapore employment law for expats

Our country is known for its pro-business environment and robust legal framework. This makes it a leading destination for expat professionals. If you’re an expat who is working here, it’s important to understand your legal rights under Singapore employment law and practice. This helps to safeguard your interests as an expat hire.

Equally, you should understand the legal responsibilities that companies hiring foreign professionals must comply with. These include securing proper work authorisation and issuing valid employment contracts before you commence work at the company.

Which work pass for expats in Singapore?

Before any expat can commence work in the country, the employer is responsible for applying for the appropriate work pass. For professionals, this is typically the Employment Pass, while entry-level to mid-level staff may qualify for an S Pass. Each type of pass has eligibility criteria relating to salary, qualifications and experience.

Once approved, the employer must ensure that your employment contract aligns with the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) legal requirements. These include clauses on salary, working hours, leave entitlements and termination terms.

Singapore employment law on termination

It isn’t something that expats want to consider, but sudden terminations of employment do happen. If termination happens unexpectedly or without cause, what are the most critical issues that an expat could face? What do you do next?

If your expat employment was terminated by your employer in a manner that doesn’t comply with the contract, or the employer fails to give sufficient notice or payment in lieu, you may have legal recourse. The employment law in Singapore generally upholds the contractual terms agreed between parties. However, statutory protections under the Employment Act may also apply, depending on the employee’s role and salary.

Expats should be aware that termination clauses in contracts can differ substantially. Some contracts include longer notice periods or offer termination benefits such as repatriation costs or severance packages. Others may allow for termination “without cause” but these still require compensation in lieu of notice.

If the employer fails to follow these terms, the employee may be entitled to pursue legal action for breach of contract or wrongful dismissal. Other remedies may include approaching the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management under the MOM, or even the Employment Claims Tribunals.

Legal eyes on expat employment rights

In practice, resolving contractual disputes can be complex. Many expats are unsure of their rights, particularly if they’re unfamiliar with the country’s legal system or unsure whether local labour protections apply to them.

That’s where proper legal advice becomes critical. From reviewing the contract at the start of your employment, to navigating options in the event of dismissal, legal support can make a significant difference.

At Legal Expat Singapore, we offer clear, fixed-fee legal consultations for expats working and living here. Our team will be able to advise you on exactly how to proceed. Our services for employment law in Singapore cover contract reviews, dispute resolution and advisory support for both local and international issues.

We treat each case with confidentiality, empathy and a practical focus. Reach us at info@legalexpat.sg or WhatsApp 8093 4393.

Legal Expat Singapore is at #13-26 Vision Exchange, 2 Venture Drive.
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This article about Singapore employment law for expats working here first appeared in the August 2025 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy! Also, read about the free legal advice that Legal Expat SG provides.

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