Working in Singapore for Filipinos — Complete Employment Guide 2026
Singapore is home to approximately 200,000 Filipino workers, making it one of the top OFW destinations in Asia. With world-class infrastructure, English-speaking environment, and proximity to the Philippines (3.5-hour flight), Singapore offers excellent earning potential and quality of life.
Average salaries: Domestic helpers: SGD 600-800/month (+free accommodation and food). Skilled workers: SGD 1,800-4,500/month. Professionals: SGD 4,500-15,000/month.
Work Pass Types
| Pass Type | Salary Requirement | For Whom | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Work Permit (WP) | No minimum | Semi-skilled workers (manufacturing, construction, marine, services) | Up to 2 years (renewable) |
| Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) | No minimum (SGD 600+ typical) | Domestic helpers | Up to 2 years (renewable) |
| S Pass | SGD 3,150+/month | Mid-skilled workers (technical, services) | Up to 2 years (renewable) |
| Employment Pass (EP) | SGD 5,600+/month | Professionals, managers, executives | Up to 2 years (initial), 3 years (renewal) |
| Personalised EP (PEP) | SGD 22,500+/month | High-earning professionals | 3 years (non-renewable) |
Foreign Domestic Worker (FDW) Guide
Over 70,000 Filipino domestic helpers work in Singapore. Key details:
- Salary: SGD 600-800/month (among the highest for domestic helpers in Asia)
- Rest days: Minimum 1 day off per week (or compensation in lieu)
- Accommodation: Employer must provide acceptable accommodation
- Medical: Employer must provide medical insurance (min SGD 60,000) and personal accident insurance
- Age limit: 23-50 years old for new applications
- Requirements: SIP (Settling-In Programme) within 3 days of arrival
- Bond: Employer posts SGD 5,000 security bond
Top Sectors for Filipino Workers
Healthcare & Nursing
- Nurses: SGD 3,000-5,000/month
- High demand at public hospitals
- Must register with Singapore Nursing Board
IT & Engineering
- Software engineers: SGD 5,000-12,000/month
- Strong tech sector
- Employment Pass required
Hospitality & F&B
- Service staff: SGD 1,800-3,000/month
- Hotels, restaurants, resorts
- S Pass or Work Permit
Marine & Construction
- Shipyard workers: SGD 1,500-2,500/month
- Work Permit category
- Overtime pay adds significantly
Worker Protections in Singapore
- Employment Act: Covers working hours (max 44/week), overtime pay, sick leave, annual leave
- Minimum rest: 1 rest day per week mandatory
- MOM complaints: File complaints at the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) — free mediation
- POLO Singapore: Philippine Overseas Labor Office at the Philippine Embassy provides free assistance
- Emergency: Contact Philippine Embassy Singapore: +65 6737-3977
Related Pages
Singapore Quick Facts
- Filipino workers: ~200,000
- Currency: SGD
- Flight from Manila: 3.5 hours
- Language: English (official)
- Embassy: +65 6737-3977
Working Abroad