The S Pass is a work permit for mid-skilled foreign workers in Singapore. It allows employers to hire non-residents to fill jobs that require degrees or technical diplomas. Knowing when and how to cancel an S Pass is important to comply with MOM regulations.
You must cancel an S Pass within a week of an employee leaving or if they no longer work with your company. The process is done through the myMOM Portal. This ensures all obligations are met and no fines.
Whether you do it yourself or through an agency, knowing the steps can save you time and hassle.
Key Points
S Pass is for mid-skilled foreign workers in Singapore.
You must cancel an S Pass if the pass holder no longer works for you. Cancel within a week of employee leaving.
Use myMOM Portal or agency.
S Pass Cancellation Procedures
When canceling an S Pass, both the employer and pass holder have their own responsibilities. The process involves notifying the relevant parties, meeting all work and financial obligations and managing the transition to a new status if needed.
Employer Initiated Cancellation
Employer must initiate the cancellation through MyMOM Portal. This can be done 14 days before intended cancellation date or within 1 week after the last day of notice.
Employer must ensure all outstanding employment issues, including salary payments and tax clearances with IRAS, are settled. Be sure to seek tax clearance from IRAS at least 1 month before the last day of employment.
Settle all outstanding employment issues that your pass holder may raise, including salary payments. Buy an air ticket with check-in luggage and pay for all connecting transport costs to the international port of entry in your pass holder's home country or the region nearest to their hometown.
Notify MOM if the pass holder becomes a PR as this renders cancellation unnecessary. Employer must also settle repatriation costs such as the air ticket for the pass holder’s departure.
S Pass Holder’s Responsibilities
As an S Pass holder, you must cooperate with your employer during the cancellation process. Ensure your passport is valid and departure date is confirmed. You must also clear all outstanding bank matters such as closing accounts or transferring funds.
Talk to your employer if you have dependants and if the Dependant’s Pass needs to be cancelled. Check your eligibility for Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) or other visas if you want to stay in Singapore temporarily after the S Pass is cancelled.
After Cancellation: Short-Term and Further Passes
Once the S Pass is cancelled, you may be eligible for a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) which allows you to stay in Singapore for up to 30 days. This gives you time to settle your departure or apply for another work pass such as Long Term Visit Pass or another type of Work Permit.
You must leave Singapore before STVP expires unless you have another pass. Staying beyond the allowed period can result in penalties including fines or being barred from future employment in Singapore.
Other Important Considerations
Cancel the S Pass if it’s no longer needed, e.g. when the pass holder becomes a PR or leaves the company. Waiting for tax clearance from Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) is important as it ensures all tax matters are settled.
Employers must also keep track of work passes related to their company’s employee quota and levy obligations. Inaccurate records can affect future pass applications and company quota for hiring foreign workers.
Implications for Employers and Employees
Effect on Employers
Employer must give reasonable notice before repatriating S Pass holders. You must settle all outstanding employment issues including salary payments. Get tax clearance from IRAS at least 1 month before last day of employment.
After cancellation, employer must submit the pass holder’s details online through the government portal. Compliance with employment laws is important to avoid penalties or legal issues.
Impact on Employees
Employees must be prepared for their transition after cancellation. Get your S Pass card and passport. If you have salary or employment disputes, consider approaching TADM.
Job loss or repatriation can be tough. Know your rights and seek mediation if needed. Stay informed about new job opportunities and be proactive about upskilling to match the job market requirements.
Summary
Cancel your S Pass within the given timeframe to avoid trouble. You can submit your cancellation up to 14 days in advance. So your request will be processed on time.
Inform your employer of your intention to cancel the S Pass. Employers will initiate the cancellation process through the online systems.
Make sure you have all the necessary documents, like your EP card and passport, ready. Submit complete documents to speed up the process and avoid delays.
If the last day of service falls on a weekend, you can only cancel the S Pass the next Monday. Timing is key.
Check MOM website or HR for more info. These will give you the steps and more.
Know the rules so you can cancel your S Pass smoothly.
FAQs
How long can a former S Pass holder stay in Singapore after cancellation?
After cancelling an S Pass, the former pass holder must leave Singapore. If he needs more time, he might be issued a Short-Term Visit Pass to stay for a short period.
Do I need to follow a specific process to return the S Pass card upon cancellation?
Yes, you must return the S Pass card when cancelled. This is usually done by submitting it to MOM. Your employer may do this for you. Check the MOM website for more info.
Can I withdraw an S Pass application before approval and if so, how?
You can withdraw an S Pass application before it is approved. Your employer must log in to the MOM eService portal and follow the instructions to withdraw the application. Do it quickly to avoid delays.
When will a Short-Term Visit Pass be issued after S Pass cancellation?
A Short-Term Visit Pass will be issued if the S Pass holder needs more time to settle affairs or make departure arrangements. This is usually done on a case-by-case basis by MOM. Stay duration will vary.
How long does it take?
Cancellation is immediate, unless you are submitting an advance cancellation request.
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