Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Australia, the UK, the US, South Korea, and More Announce Major Updates to Foreign Workforce Policies : Click to Know the New Rules

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) recently revealed key updates to the foreign workforce policies under the 2026 Budget. These changes, set to take effect between 2026 and 2028, bring important updates for the tourism and travel industries, particularly in relation to Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, and Work Permit requirements for foreign workers. These modifications are significant as Singapore continues to attract international visitors, offering a dynamic environment for both tourism and business.

Key Changes Impacting Travel and Tourism

The upcoming changes in work pass requirements have broader implications for sectors closely tied to tourism. The rise in minimum qualifying salaries for EP and S Pass holders means that the cost of labor in Singapore will adjust for companies, including those in the travel and hospitality industry. These adjustments are expected to impact businesses ranging from hotels and restaurants to travel agencies, which rely on foreign workers to sustain their operations.

From January 2027, employers in sectors like retail, hospitality, and tourism will be required to meet higher salary thresholds for new and renewing Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass holders. For the Employment Pass (EP), the minimum qualifying salary will increase from S$5,600 to S$6,000 per month, while the S Pass will see a rise from S$3,300 to S$3,600. These adjustments will directly affect businesses that rely on skilled foreign professionals and mid-level workers for various roles, such as hotel managers, tour guides, and customer service staff.

How This Affects the Tourism Industry

For businesses in the tourism industry, these changes may lead to re-adjustment of budgets for hiring foreign workers. As labor costs rise with the increase in minimum salary requirements, the cost of running tourism-related businesses could also go up. As tourism continues to thrive in Singapore, with its world-class attractions, efficient public transport system, and thriving entertainment industry, businesses may need to re-evaluate their workforce strategies to stay competitive.a

The financial services sector is also included in the changes, though it faces slightly higher salary thresholds for foreign professionals. These adjustments will help to level the playing field, making it easier for businesses in the tourism sector to hire skilled foreign workers while meeting the new policy guidelines.

The Impact of Local Salary Adjustments on Travel Services

In a related update, Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower also announced that the Local Qualifying Salary (LQS)—which is the minimum wage for a local employee to be counted towards the S Pass/Work Permit quota—will increase starting July 1, 2026. The LQS will rise from S$1,600 to S$1,800 per month. This shift will impact businesses that rely on local employees to meet the required quota for foreign worker permits. Travel agencies, transportation providers, and hospitality businesses will need to adjust their payrolls to comply with the new requirements.

While the increase in local salaries may affect tourism operators’ staffing and hiring practices, Singapore’s Progressive Wage Credit Scheme (PWCS), which supports wage increases for lower-wage workers, will provide some financial relief. The PWCS, extending to 2028, will help offset the additional salary costs for eligible Singaporean employees, easing the financial burden on employers.

Work Permit Levy Adjustments – What This Means for Travel Employers

Another key update from Singapore’s Budget 2026 is the adjustment to Work Permit levies, which will come into effect in 2028. These changes primarily affect basic-skilled workers in sectors such as marine and process industries. In tourism and hospitality, this means employers who rely on foreign workers in entry-level or skilled manual roles will need to prepare for higher levies in the coming years.

The levies are designed to encourage employers to hire higher-skilled or more productive workers, which could have a direct effect on the travel and tourism industry. Hotels, airports, and travel agencies that employ entry-level staff in roles such as housekeeping, customer service, and baggage handling may face higher operational costs as the government works to encourage businesses to raise the skill levels of their workforce.

For companies in the tourism sector, this levy change is an important consideration when planning long-term staffing and cost structures. Tourism-related businesses will need to evaluate how these costs will affect their bottom lines and make necessary adjustments to their operations.

Tourism Growth and Workforce Demand

Singapore remains one of Asia’s most popular destinations for both business and leisure travel. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, world-renowned landmarks, and cultural diversity, the country is expected to continue drawing millions of visitors every year. In 2026, Singapore’s strategic location as a global travel hub ensures that the demand for skilled workers in the tourism industry will remain high.

As Singapore continues to strengthen its tourism offerings with new attractions, events, and international conventions, the need for foreign expertise will also grow. However, as the country enforces stricter foreign workforce policies, tourism employers will have to adjust their hiring strategies. From managing cost increases to adopting more efficient workforce planning, these changes will challenge travel businesses to remain agile in a competitive market.

Preparing for Future Changes in Travel and Tourism

The updates to Singapore’s foreign workforce policies signal a shift towards a more localized workforce, with higher wage floors and more skilled labor requirements. As the country looks ahead to 2026 and beyond, businesses in the travel and tourism industry must be proactive in adjusting their hiring practices, workforce management, and cost projections.

The introduction of these higher wage standards, together with the changes to the S Pass quotas and Work Permit levies, will impact both foreign and local workers in the travel industry. However, with thoughtful planning and the support of government initiatives like the PWCS, employers in the tourism sector can navigate these changes smoothly.

Conclusion

As Singapore continues to adjust its foreign workforce policies to align with broader economic goals, the tourism industry will be faced with both challenges and opportunities. Employers must be prepared for changes in hiring practices, staffing costs, and compliance requirements. By understanding these updates and adapting to the evolving landscape, tourism businesses can continue to thrive in a competitive global market.