What Is the Non-Traditional Sources Occupation List?
This list allows manufacturing and services firms to hire Work Permit holders from non-traditional sources for restricted occupations. It does not open every role or sector. Check the sector, source and actual duties separately rather than relying on a similar job title.
Which Source Countries Are Covered?
The listed non-traditional sources are Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The page separately identifies ordinary manufacturing/services sources: Malaysia, China and North Asian sources including Hong Kong (HKSAR passport), Macau, South Korea and Taiwan. Distinguish the routes.
Three Core Requirements: Quota, Salary and Duties
Firms must meet the 8% sub-quota, pay at least S$2,000 fixed monthly salary and employ holders only in the occupation on their Work Permit. The sub-quota does not replace the overall sector quota. Variable bonuses and overtime are not a substitute for fixed salary. Check MOM’s calculation guide and system balance.
Cabin Attendants and Childcare: Check Employer Eligibility
Cabin-attendant employers need a valid CAAS Singapore Air Operator Certificate or Foreign Operator’s Permit with scheduled services to/from Singapore. Childcare roles cover infant caregivers, child/after-school care workers and teacher aides. Employers need an ECDC licence or ECDA appointment under the ChildMinding Pilot.
Food Processing and Food Services: Licences Matter
Food-processing employers need an SFA processing-establishment or slaughterhouse licence matching ACRA. Exclusions include supervisors/general foremen, tasters, graders, bakers, pastry cooks and confectionery makers. Food-service roles include butchers/fishmongers, cooks, stall assistants, kitchen assistants and waiters; employers need a services account and matching SFA Food Shop or Supermarket licence.
Heavy Vehicle Driving and Hotel Roles
Heavy-vehicle roles include bus, lorry and trailer-truck drivers. The page specifies Class 4 or 5 licences as of 1 September 2025, excluding Class 3 cars and light goods vehicles. Housekeeping workers and porters require a licensed hotel employer; do not generalise this to all cleaning companies.
Manufacturing Occupations
Employers need a manufacturing work pass account. Examples include assemblers, machine operators, metal moulders/coremakers, quality checkers/testers, riggers/cable splicers, sheet-metal workers, structural-metal preparers/erectors, and welders/flame cutters. Match production duties to the permitted occupation rather than using a generic factory-worker label.
Levy and Budget Are Separate
Employers must pay monthly levy. Higher-skilled levy rates require the relevant manufacturing or services skill criteria; a S$2,000 salary alone does not establish eligibility. Budget fixed salary and levy separately and confirm sector tier and skill classification.
Application and Renewal Checklist
Confirm sector account, source, occupation and actual duties; check licences and company names; review the 8% sub-quota and overall balance; confirm salary and levy budgets; retain evidence. If renewal is blocked, check the system reason before considering appeal. List eligibility does not automatically approve an application; consult the current official source.
Official Eligibility and Requirements
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Published by: Hengxin Group Corporate Services