MOM cracks down on illegal engagement of foreign freelancers in SG

Violations under EFMA carry fines up to $20,000, jail up to 2 years, or both.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has issued a warning to companies engaging foreign freelancers to provide services in Singapore, following reports of some firms hiring foreigners for photography, videography, and make-up services at weddings.

According to the ministry, some businesses have been found hiring foreigners on tourist or student passes for such work.

It stressed that these individuals are not permitted to work in Singapore, and companies are prohibited from engaging or promoting their services.

Such arrangements are considered a breach of the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA).

MOM conducts regular checks and warned that enforcement action will be taken against both foreigners working without valid passes and those who employ or abet them.

Foreigners found guilty of working without a valid work pass face penalties of up to a $20,000 fine, two years’ imprisonment, or both.

Companies or individuals who hire them may also face similar punishments.

Additionally, offenders risk being barred from entering or working in Singapore in the future.

Members of the public who are aware of such illegal activities are encouraged to report them to MOM through its online eService, “Report an Infringement.”

The Visual, Audio, Creative Content Professionals Association (Singapore) (VICPA), an affiliate of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), also urged businesses to engage local creative freelancers instead.

Companies seeking photographers, videographers, and other creative professionals can refer to the NTUC Freelancer Directory, which lists experienced freelancers who adhere to a Professional Code of Ethics aligned with the Tripartite Standard on Contracting with Self-Employed Persons.

The reminder was jointly signed by Tan Shu Xiang, director of MOM’s Foreign Manpower Management Division, and Jagathishwaran s/o Rajo, executive secretary of VICPA.