Singapore is imposing stricter rules on families of foreigners
working in the city-state after public disquiet over the influx of
workers from overseas.
From Sept. 1, foreign workers must earn at least S$4,000
($3,150) a month compared with the current S$2,800 to sponsor their
spouses and children for their stay in Singapore, according to a
notice on the manpower ministry’s website. Some workers will also
no longer be able to bring their parents and in-laws on long-term
visit passes to the Southeast Asian city.
Singapore’s companies added 27,200 jobs, fewer than initially
estimated, in the three months through March amid stricter labor
regulations and weaker global demand. Public anger over immigration
policies and the rising wealth gap contributed to the ruling
party’s worst performance since independence in last year’s general
election.
The changes are “part of the overall direction to moderate the
growth of Singapore’s non-resident population,” the ministry said
in a statement on its website. “This will help ease the pressure on
our social infrastructure. Nonetheless, Singapore remains a global
talent capital.”
Foreign workers whose families are already in Singapore won’t be
affected by the changes, according to the statement. While those
who switch employers after Sept. 1 will be subject to the new
rules.
Public discontent surfaced when the strain on the rail system
caused its worst breakdown in December and rising property prices
boosted inflation.
“The key criterion in assessing the level of dependent
privileges for a work pass holder is based on his economic
contribution and whether he can finance his dependents’ stay in
Singapore,” the manpower ministry said in the statement.
from bloomberg
