Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme to be scrapped from 1 June 2026

The Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme, introduced in 2008 to support the hiring of foreign performers in public entertainment venues, will be permanently discontinued from 1 June 2026.

The decision, announced by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on 1 December 2025, follows evidence of widespread abuse uncovered during recent enforcement actions.

The scheme allowed licensed public entertainment establishments, including bars, hotels and nightclubs, to employ foreign artistes for up to six months. However, investigations led by MOM and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) revealed that several syndicates were exploiting the scheme.

According to MOM, these syndicates used shell companies posing as operational public entertainment outlets to obtain work permits. Once approved, the foreign artistes were released to work illegally at other establishments, often as unauthorised freelance hostesses.

The authorities conducted a series of joint operations that culminated in the arrests of 107 individuals between September and October 2025. On 2 September, 17 people were detained. This was followed by a second raid on 23 September, where 32 individuals were arrested. The largest operation occurred on 23 October, when 58 individuals were apprehended.

During the October raid, 32 foreigners were found working without valid work passes despite holding permits under the scheme. The other 26 included foreigners and Singapore Permanent Residents involved in various employment-related offences. Six e-vaporisers were also confiscated during the operation.

In its press release, MOM emphasised that the scheme was no longer fulfilling its original intent. It stated, “In view of the widespread abuse of the scheme, MOM, in consultation with relevant agencies, has assessed that it is no longer serving its original purpose. MOM will thus cease the scheme.”

From 1 June 2026, MOM will no longer accept new applications for the Work Permit (Performing Artiste). Businesses currently employing foreign artistes under this scheme may retain them until their existing passes expire or are cancelled.

The decision follows consultations with the Singapore Nightlife Business Association (SNBA). MOM noted that the lead time until 2026 is intended to help businesses adjust their hiring practices and source performers through legitimate means.

Alternatives to the scheme include engaging entertainment services via licensed service providers or hiring performers under regular work pass frameworks. Businesses may also use the Work Pass Exempt (WPE) framework for short-term performances, but this applies only to events supported by the government or held at recognised public performance venues.

The WPE framework excludes bars, discotheques, lounges, nightclubs, pubs, hotels, private clubs, and restaurants with a Category 1 Public Entertainment Licence.

In its October press release, Adrian Quek, divisional director of MOM’s foreign manpower management division, reiterated the ministry’s zero-tolerance stance: “Foreign workers must be engaged in legitimate employment. We will continue to take strong enforcement action against those who abuse the system and undermine the integrity of our work pass controls.”

Employers found guilty of hiring foreigners without valid work passes under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA) can face fines ranging from S$5,000 to S$30,000, imprisonment of up to 12 months, or both. Self-employed foreigners without valid work passes can be fined up to S$20,000, jailed for up to two years, or both. Convicted individuals will also be barred from future employment in Singapore.