Stay Duration in Singapore After Employment Termination

When your employment in Singapore is canceled or terminated, the duration you can remain in the country depends on your visa type and the specific circumstances. Understanding these requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth transition.

General Guidelines

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore provides detailed guidelines on employment pass, work permits, and other visa types. It is recommended to consult the official MOM website or an immigration expert for personalized advice.

Employment Pass (EP) Holders

EP holders typically have a 30-day grace period after their Employment Pass is canceled or they resign. During this period, they can search for new employment or make arrangements to leave the country.

S Pass and Work Permit Holders

Similar to EP holders, S Pass and Work Permit holders usually have a 30-day grace period after termination. This applies to both voluntary resignation and involuntary termination.

Long-Term Visit Pass and Dependant Pass Holders

For holders of Long-Term Visit Passes and Dependant Passes linked to an Employment Pass, their stay is tied to the validity of the primary pass. If the primary pass is canceled, they will need to leave immediately or apply for a different pass.

Tourist Visa Holders

Tourist visa holders can stay for the duration specified by their visa, regardless of their employment status in Singapore.

Specific Situations and Recommendations

For individuals who are Singaporean citizens, married to a local, or facing uncertain work situations, it is crucial to carefully review their visa conditions. Visa details can be complex, and consulting the embassy or a legal advisor can provide clarity.

A common scenario involves someone who wishes to cancel their work permit and resign from their current employer. Upon cancellation, if the individual does not wish to immediately seek new employment, they can utilize the 30-day grace period to transition without immediate departure.

However, if the individual intends to work for another employer, they must apply for a new work permit. Typically, the resignation notice period should allow for the application and approval of the new visa before the existing one expires.

In cases where the employment termination is sudden or unexpected, the individual can apply for a Short-term Visit Pass (STVP). This pass allows individuals to stay in Singapore for an additional 30 days, with the possibility of extending the stay for a total of 89 days if certain requirements are met.

Important Considerations

The validity of a work pass can be shortened for two main reasons:

The expiry of the worker's passport: The work pass typically becomes invalid 1 month before the passport expires. The expiry of the security bond: The work pass usually becomes invalid 2 months before the bond expires.

For individuals planning to cancel their work permit and voluntarily terminate their employment, it is advisable to initiate the process early to ensure a smooth transition. Consulting the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) website or an immigration expert can provide detailed information and assist in navigating the necessary steps.

Note: The information provided is based on general guidelines and may vary. It is always best to consult the official MOM website or seek professional advice for specific situations.