Response to Transient Workers Count Too's (TWC2) article on employment and accommodation of migrant workers on special passes

On 27 Apr 2024, Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) published an article, “If unemployed, yet required by authorities to remain in Singapore, where do they stay?” in which they took issue with the Government reserving the right to decide if migrant workers on Special Passes assisting with Police investigations were allowed to work.

Special Pass holders (SPHs) who are required to remain in Singapore to assist in investigations or as prosecution witnesses are generally allowed to work under the Temporary Job Scheme (TJS) during the investigation period so that they have the means to sustain themselves and provide for their family back home while the case is ongoing.

However, each SPH’s eligibility for TJS is assessed thoroughly by the law enforcement agencies conducting the investigations and/or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), taking into consideration possible concerns over public safety and potential interference with investigations. It is important that the Government reserves this right to act in the best interest of the broader public.

While MOM does not overrule the decisions of law enforcement agencies, each work pass application is stringently assessed based on the prevailing criteria, and TJS applications are no different. Potential employers will also be informed of the worker’s legal circumstances so that they can make an informed hiring decision.

Eligible SPHs who need help to secure a job will be referred by MOM to employment agencies to facilitate their job search. These SPHs can also find jobs through their own preferred means such as by directly contacting employers or engaging their own preferred employment agency.

TWC2 should inform MOM when they encounter any migrant worker on Special Pass who requires assistance with finding a job or has issues with accommodation.