Singapore will discontinue the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme from June 1, 2026, after the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) concluded that the framework no longer serves its original purpose. The decision comes after investigations found repeated misuse of the scheme, prompting authorities to tighten controls over how foreign workers are engaged in the entertainment and nightlife sector.
Introduced to allow foreign performers to work legally at licensed entertainment outlets, the permit was intended to support live performances while maintaining clear regulatory boundaries. Over time, however, enforcement actions revealed that the way the scheme was being applied on the ground had drifted significantly from its intended scope, raising concerns about compliance and oversight.
MOM confirmed that while the scheme will be closed to new applications from June 1, 2026, existing permits will remain valid until their expiry dates. This transitional arrangement is meant to give affected businesses sufficient time to adapt to alternative manpower arrangements without immediate disruption.
WHY THE SCHEME IS BEING PHASED OUT
According to MOM, investigations uncovered cases where licensed outlets were not deploying foreign performers for approved performances. Instead, some individuals were allegedly redirected to work as “freelance hostesses” at other venues, including locations that were not authorised under the terms of the permit.
Authorities also identified the involvement of syndicates and shell companies that appeared to be set up primarily to secure work permits. These arrangements undermined regulatory intent and made enforcement more complex, prompting a broader review of whether the scheme could continue in its existing form.
Following this review, MOM concluded that the risks associated with retaining the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme outweighed its benefits. The ministry said stronger safeguards were needed to protect Singapore’s labour standards and ensure foreign workers are employed strictly within approved roles.
IMPACT ON NIGHTLIFE AND ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESSES
The phase-out will directly affect nightclubs, bars and lounges that previously relied on the six-month permit to engage foreign performers. From mid-2026, these establishments will no longer be able to use this specific work pass to supplement their workforce.
Businesses will instead need to explore other lawful hiring options. These include engaging performers through licensed service providers or applying for standard work passes such as Employment Passes or S Passes, which involve stricter eligibility criteria, salary benchmarks and quota controls.
MOM also noted that certain short-term performances may still qualify under the Work Pass Exempt framework, which allows eligible foreign performers to work in Singapore for up to 90 days without a work pass. However, this exemption generally applies to public or large-scale events and typically excludes bars, lounges and nightclubs.
The move signals Singapore’s continued emphasis on regulatory clarity and responsible hiring practices. Operators in the entertainment sector are encouraged to review their manpower strategies early, ensure full compliance with employment rules, and seek professional guidance where necessary to manage the transition smoothly.