MOM and Vicpa warn against illegal hiring of foreign freelancers in creative sectors
Foreign freelancers on tourist or student visas cannot legally work in Singapore's creative sectors, including photography and make-up services, according to a joint advisory by MOM and Vicpa.
Companies operating in Singapore’s creative services sector—including photography, videography and make-up—have been formally warned against hiring foreign freelancers without valid work passes.
On 11 September, 2025, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Visual, Audio, Creative Content Professionals Association (Singapore), or Vicpa, issued a joint advisory clarifying that foreigners on tourist or student visas are not permitted to carry out freelance work in Singapore.
According to the advisory, companies are prohibited from engaging such individuals to provide services to clients or promote their services, regardless of the nature of the engagement.
The announcement followed reports received by MOM indicating that some companies have been hiring foreign freelancers to provide creative services for local weddings, in violation of Singapore's labour laws.
Such practices contravene the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA). Under the Act, foreigners working without a valid work pass may face fines of up to S$20,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
In addition, these individuals may be banned from re-entering or working in Singapore. Companies that engage them unlawfully may also be subject to similar penalties.
Vicpa's executive secretary Jagathishwaran Rajo noted that the association has received growing feedback from local professionals over challenges posed by the presence of unlicensed foreign freelancers.
One of the major concerns cited is unfair price competition, as foreign freelancers often charge lower rates, potentially undercutting the local market.
In contrast, Singapore-based freelancers are required to contribute to MediSave, and are also responsible for insurance, business overheads, tax obligations, and equipment costs.
The problem has worsened in recent years, driven by the widespread use of social media platforms, which enable foreign freelancers to directly advertise their services to Singapore-based clients.
Vicpa has observed that such cases extend beyond the wedding sector, also affecting other creative service areas such as videography, photography, make-up, and related freelance work.
In response, Vicpa has been actively monitoring online platforms for potential violations and providing tip-offs to MOM to aid enforcement efforts.
The association also aims to educate clients and companies, promoting awareness of ethical hiring practices and compliance with legal requirements.
Vicpa clarified that its intention is not to suppress competition, but rather to ensure that local creative professionals are treated fairly and operate on an even playing field.
To facilitate reporting, the public may report EFMA contraventions via MOM’s eService portal at www.mom.gov.sg/eservices/services/report-an-infringement.
Foreign students can check their eligibility to work in Singapore by visiting www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-pass-exemption-for-foreign-students.
Vicpa was established in 2021 with support from the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). It represents freelance and self-employed individuals in Singapore’s creative content industry.
According to Vicpa’s website, the association is committed to upholding a code of ethics, enhancing professional standards, and supporting the growth and recognition of its members in the industry.
