On-Arrival Tests for Newly Arrived Migrant Workers from Construction, Marine and Process sectors

1. Given the worsening of COVID-19 situation around the world, the emergence of new virus variants, and recent community cases seeded by imported cases, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) has mandated that newly arrived work permit and S pass holders from the Construction, Marine and Process (CMP) sectors from higher-risk countries/regions¹, to take an On-Arrival Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test and an On-Arrival Serology Test on arrival in Singapore from 18 January 2021.
2. The On-Arrival PCR test will enable early detection of COVID-19 cases, provide access to medical care quickly, and reduce the risk of leakage of imported cases into the community. The On-Arrival Serology Test on the other hand, will allow for the identification of workers who have recovered from the COVID-19 and have antibodies.  Recovered workers will be exempted from the Stay-Home Notice (SHN), additional 7-day testing regime, and Rostered Routine Testing (RRT) requirements. This can help to minimise work disruption and associated costs from the SHN and tests. The cost of the new On-Arrival Tests will be borne by the employers.