What is Ministry of Manpower Singapore? | MOM Singapore

Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore is the central government authority that manages the country’s workforce policies, labour regulations, and employment-related services. As Singapore continues to grow rapidly, there is a constant need to develop and regulate manpower to meet economic demands while ensuring fair treatment and opportunities for all workers.

Established by the Government of Singapore, MOM’s role goes far beyond simple administration — it is responsible for shaping the labour market, enhancing workplace productivity, ensuring worker well-being, and preparing the country’s workforce for the future economy.

Overview of the Ministry of Manpower Singapore

• • Formation Date: 1 April 1998
  • Headquarters: 18 Havelock Road, Singapore
  • Employees: Approximately 2,239
  • Annual Budget: SGD 1.98 billion
  • Growth Target: 2–3% annual increase in production activities
  • Current Minister for Manpower: Dr. Tan See Leng

  MOM oversees three key statutory boards that play specialised roles in manpower development:

  • Central Provident Fund Board (CPF) – Manages Singapore’s compulsory savings and retirement scheme.
  • Singapore Labour Foundation (SLF) – Supports trade unions and workers’ welfare initiatives.
  • Workforce Singapore (WSG) – Focuses on employment facilitation and workforce transformation.

Mission and Vision of MOM Singapore

The mission of MOM is to develop a great workforce and great workplaces for Singaporeans. This is achieved by:

• Creating progressive workplaces that promote productivity and innovation
• Ensuring financial security and retirement readiness for workers
• Maintaining a manpower-lean and competitive economy
• Encouraging employers to provide high-quality jobs
• Ensuring workplace safety and health for all employees

MOM’s vision is a thriving workforce that supports Singapore’s growth as a global economic hub.

Core Values of MOM Singapore

MOM operates according to four guiding values that shape its policies and daily operations:

• People-Centeredness – Matching individuals to roles that best fit their skills and potential.
• Professionalism – Upholding integrity and high standards in every decision.
• Teamwork – Building stronger workforce unity through collaboration.
• Passionate Progress – Continuously seeking improvements for workers and organisations.

Principles for Service Excellence – The HEART Framework

MOM’s service principles follow the HEART approach, which defines how the ministry interacts with its stakeholders:

1. Hearing Them – Engaging and listening to stakeholders’ needs and concerns.
2. Ease – Making policies and procedures simple to understand and follow.
3. Anticipation – Proactively addressing workforce challenges before they arise.
4. Respect – Treating each person fairly and with dignity.
5. Time – Ensuring timely delivery of services and meeting all commitments.

E-Services Offered by MOM Singapore

To help companies and employees manage their workforces more effectively, the Ministry of Manpower offers a variety of digital services:

• Check workers’ training records
• Apply for an Employment Pass or an S Pass online
• Renew, cancel, or amend work passes
• Book, change, or cancel appointments
• Pay levies for foreign workers
• Update foreign worker addresses
• Submit pass applications electronically
• Use self-assessment tools for S Pass or Employment Pass eligibility

💡 Tip: All e-services are accessible through MOM’s official website – www.mom.gov.sg

MOM Singapore – S Pass Rules and Eligibility

Mid-skilled overseas workers in Singapore are granted a particular kind of work permit called the S Pass. Eligibility requirements include:

• Minimum Monthly Salary: SGD 3,150 (higher for those with more experience)
• Educational Qualifications: Diploma or degree from an accredited institution, with full-time study for at least one year
• Relevant Work Experience: Industry-specific experience that meets MOM’s criteria
• Accreditation Verification: Qualifications must be recognised by authorised global verification agencies, national educational authorities, or international accreditation bodies

Employers can use the Self-Assessment Tool on MOM’s website to check eligibility before applying. The application will probably be denied if the tool yields a “not qualified” result.

How to Check Your MOM Application Status?

Checking your application status is simple:

• Visit the official MOM website.
• Navigate to the relevant application status e-service.
• Enter the required details (application or FIN number).
• See the progress of your application in real time.

Recent MOM Singapore Updates

MOM regularly issues press releases and policy updates to reflect changes in labour laws and workforce policies. Recent examples include:

• Work-related events with up to 1,000 participants allowed (January 2022)
• Mandatory COVID-19 vaccination for all work pass and permanent residence applicants (February 2022)
• Business levy waivers and refunds are being extended (December 2021).

To avoid out-of-date information, always check the official MOM Newsroom for the most recent updates.

Divisions and Statutory Bodies Under MOM

MOM consists of 15 divisions and 3 statutory boards. The divisions handle areas such as:

• Foreign manpower management
• Employment standards enforcement
• Workplace safety and health policy
• Skills development and labour market research

Why the Ministry of Manpower is Essential for Singapore?

The Ministry plays a pivotal role in Singapore’s economy by:

• Regulating employment laws to protect workers
• Developing skills training programmes to future-proof the workforce
• Managing foreign manpower to balance local employment opportunities

Ministry of Manpower Singapore – Visa and Work Pass Overview

In Singapore, there is no generic “work visa” — instead, different types of work passes are issued depending on the worker’s skills and job role:

• Employment Pass (EP): For executives, managers, and professionals making a certain amount of money.
• S Pass: For mid-skilled employees who fulfill the necessary qualifications and pay scale.
• Work Permit: For semi-skilled workers in sectors including manufacturing, services, and construction, a work permit is required.
• EntrePass: For foreign entrepreneurs starting a business in Singapore.

Conclusion

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Singapore plays a vital role in shaping a competitive, secure, and forward-looking workforce. From regulating work passes and safeguarding employment rights to promoting workplace safety and skills development, MOM ensures that Singapore remains a top destination for talent and business. For employers, MOM’s policies create a fair and efficient hiring environment; for employees, they provide protection, career growth opportunities, and financial security. 

Whether you are a business owner seeking to hire skilled workers or a foreign professional planning to work in Singapore, understanding MOM’s services and regulations is essential. By staying informed and compliant, you can make the most of Singapore’s thriving labour market