Breakdown of Work Permit Holders Earning Basic Wages between $3,000 and more than $4,500

33 Mr Leong Mun Wai asked the Minister for Manpower what are the respective current numbers of Work Permit holders who earn basic wages (i) from $3,000 to less than $4,500 and (ii) more than $4,500.

Dr Tan See Leng: As of December 2020, excluding migrant domestic workers, the median fixed monthly salary of Work Permit Holders (WPHs) is around $1,100. Nearly all WPHs (about 98%) earn less than $3,000 per month.

We would also like to remind the member that WPHs are subjected to quotas and levies, which vary by sector. In addition, employers are required to meet additional conditions, including source restrictions and security bond requirements. WPHs are also required to go for six-monthly medical examinations, and face marriage and pregnancy restrictions.