Companies in sectors such as photography, videography, and make-up services are prohibited from hiring foreign freelancers to provide services locally, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Visual, Audio, Creative Content Professionals Association (Vicpa) said in a joint advisory on Sept 11.
The advisory stressed that foreigners on tourist or student visas are not permitted to undertake such work in Singapore. Businesses are also not allowed to engage them for client services or promote their offerings.
The clarification comes after MOM received reports that some firms had enlisted foreign freelancers to deliver creative services for weddings in Singapore. Such arrangements are illegal and fall under violations of the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA).
Under the law, foreigners found working without a valid work pass can face fines of up to $20,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. Companies that engage them may face similar penalties. In addition, foreigners caught working illegally risk being barred from future entry or employment in Singapore.
According to Jagathishwaran Rajo, executive secretary of Vicpa, the association has been receiving mounting feedback from local professionals about challenges created by foreign freelancers working without valid authorisation.
Industry observers say the joint advisory signals a firmer stance by authorities in safeguarding local creative workers and ensuring a level playing field. It also serves as a reminder to companies to exercise due diligence in engaging freelancers and to verify that all workers have the appropriate permits.
MOM and Vicpa urged businesses and clients alike to comply with employment laws and highlighted that upholding proper standards not only protects local professionals but also strengthens the credibility of Singapore’s creative services sector in the long term.
Source: The Strait Times
Source: Firms barred from hiring foreign freelancers for creative services in Singapore: MOM,
