Singapore Expats

Hi all,

Looking for a bit of advice.

I am arriving in Singapore in July to collect my EP, i have a mid July date on my in principle approval extension.

I would like to know if there is a defined period of time after collecting my EP that i need to start my job? I am in no financial rush to start work and would like some time to get settled in SG, my employer is also ok with my starting work 2/3 months after arriving.

If i do need to start my contract with my employer immediately would unpaid leave at the start of my employment be allowed by MOM?

Thanks in advance for your help!
James.

I'm pretty sure you will have to start work upon receipt of your EP. After all, your employer is the one sponsoring you. If you want time off before starting work, remain on your SVP holding the IPA (in order to open bank accounts, housing, etc, etc if you want time off to do this). As soon as you gain your EP it's time to go to work. Time off is between you and your employer. Clear this with them as I'm sure you have a start date. Don't start off on the wrong foot with your employer.

Hi,

Thanks for the reply.

My employer and I have already agreed for me to start work 2/3 months after arrival in Singapore however my IPA will expire mid-July which is just after when i will complete my stay at home notice therefore i cannot remain on my SVP.

My concern is that if i dont start earning/accruing tax immediatley after collecting my EP will this be an issue for MOM when i get to EP renewal?

Thanks,
James

That is a possibility, but without any anecdotal evidence I cannot say one way or the other. Why is the employer willing to wait 2 or 3 months before you start work? I'd say it's a bit iffy but cannot say it's a no-go as I really don't have anything to go by. With covid it is a strange time we are living in so I'm thinking possibly allowance will probably be entertained by MOM and others.