5 Common Mistakes New Workers Make in Singapore

Every year, thousands of workers lose their jobs, passes, or worse — all because of simple mistakes. Here's how to avoid them.

1 Working Before Pass Issued

You arrived in Singapore and your employer says "just start working, the pass will come in a few days." This is illegal. You MUST wait until the work pass is formally issued by MOM before your first day.

⚠️ Consequence: Working on a visit pass = criminal offence. Fines, deportation, and blacklisted from Singapore.

2 Ignoring IPA Errors

Your IPA shows a different salary or job title than what was promised. You think "it's fine, they'll fix it." They don't. You're stuck with whatever is on the IPA.

⚠️ Consequence: Wrong details mean your pass may be revoked. Always verify before you travel.

3 Overpaying Agents

You paid SGD 2,000 or more in agent fees because "that's the normal rate." It's not. The legal maximum is 1 month's salary for a 1-year pass.

⚠️ Consequence: You can report to MOM (6438 5122) and demand a refund. Keep all receipts.

4 Not Carrying Your Pass

You leave your work pass card at home because "I won't need it." Then a police officer or MOM inspector asks to see it. You can't produce it.

⚠️ Consequence: Fine up to SGD 5,000, potential pass revocation. Carry it always.

5 Accepting "Convert Later" Scam

Your agent or employer says "come on a visit pass first, we'll convert it to a work pass later." This is a well-known scam. It does not work and is illegal.

⚠️ Consequence: You work illegally, get caught, deported, and banned. Never accept this arrangement.

Remember: When in doubt, call MOM at 6438 5122 before you do anything. They're there to help workers.