Foreigners Caught Working Illegally in Singapore

Mr Chong Kee Hiong asked the Minister for Manpower (a) in the last three years, how many foreigners have been caught for working illegally in Singapore; (b) what are the top three nationalities; (c) what are the top three sectors and occupations they are engaged in; and (d) what measures are being taken to reduce their numbers.

Between 2014 and August 2016, around 3,000 foreigners were found working illegally and they are mostly from China, Bangladesh and India. We have seen a steady decline in the number of foreigners found to be working illegally, from around 1,300 in 2014 to 550 in the first eight months of this year.

The illegal workers were found working mainly in the construction, food and beverage and other services sectors, in occupations, such as construction workers, cleaners and stall assistants.

All foreigners working in Singapore must have a valid work pass. Failing to do so is a breach of the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. MOM has a multi-prong strategy to reduce such illegal employment.

First, MOM educates work pass holders and employers on their employment responsibilities, as well as the consequences of not complying with our laws. These messages are reinforced in MOM’s advisory letter to employers, guidebooks, newsletters and roadshows for foreign workers, including at their dormitories and in their native languages.

Second, we take a risk-based approach and conduct proactive inspections on businesses suspected of hiring foreigners illegally. In addition, we also respond to tip-offs from members of the public. Foreigners found working illegally will be barred from future employment in Singapore.

Third, to deter the demand for illegal workers, the penalty for illegal employment was enhanced in 2012. Employers who hire illegal workers face a minimum fine of $5,000 per charge for first-time offenders. Repeat offenders face a minimum fine of $10,000 per charge and a minimum imprisonment term of one month.

Our strategy of conducting inspections, imposing penalties and outreach has worked well.