Singapore will end its Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme from 1 June 2026, citing widespread misuse of the programme by syndicates and non-operating entertainment outlets. According to The Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the country will stop accepting new applications under the scheme from that date, while existing permit holders can continue working until their passes expire or are cancelled.
Why Singapore is ending the scheme
Why Singapore is ending the scheme
The Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme was introduced in 2008 to allow licensed public entertainment outlets, such as bars, hotels and nightclubs, to hire foreign performing artistes of any nationality for short-term stints of up to six months.
However, MOM said recent enforcement operations carried out with the Singapore Police Force uncovered abuse of the scheme. Investigations found syndicates linked to non-operating public entertainment outlets hiring foreign performers and then releasing them to work at other locations.
“In view of the widespread abuse of the scheme, MOM, in consultation with relevant agencies, has assessed that the scheme is no longer serving its original purpose,” the ministry said.
