Scheme closed to new applications
MOM has ceased the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme. No new foreign artistes may be hired on it; existing workers may remain until pass expiry. The retained scheme conditions below do not reopen applications.
Businesses may engage entertainment providers or eligible artistes on regular work passes. WPE may cover short performances at government/statutory-board-supported events or public performance venues, excluding bars, discotheques, lounges, nightclubs, pubs, hotels, private clubs and restaurants with CAT 1 PEL.
Retained outlet requirements
The retained requirements are a Police CAT 1 Public Entertainment Licence, operation at least six hours daily, classification as a bar/discotheque/lounge/nightclub/pub/hotel/private club/restaurant and at least one local employee earning LQS.
Continue meeting the requirements while retaining artistes or their permits are revoked. Without the local employee, cancel the permits and pay higher levy pending cancellation.
Numbers and levy
The retained quota is normally eight artistes, with up to twelve for larger outlets on a case-by-case basis.
| Artiste band | Monthly levy |
|---|---|
| First eight | S$450 |
| Ninth and above | S$750 |
Retained age and work restrictions
There is no source-country restriction. The retained application ages are at least eighteen, below fifty-eight for Malaysians and below fifty for others; these are not an available new-application route. Validity is up to six months, followed by a one-year bar on another Work Permit including another occupation.
Only stage-performance duties such as singing/dancing are allowed, not other work in the business. Police entertainment licensing also prohibits activities such as mingling with customers.
Official source
Written independently from official MOM source material.