Whether you already live in Singapore or are considering moving there, you are entering one of Asia's largest economic hubs, a center for finance, tech and logistics. The market remains dynamic (over 57,000 jobs created in 2025) but is becoming more selective. Here is how to find a job, an internship or an apprenticeship there.
Why work in Singapore?
Because the city-state combines a top-tier business environment, high salaries, ubiquitous English and a unique concentration of regional headquarters in finance, tech and pharma. It is a prime gateway to Asia.
- A top finance and tech hub in Asia.
- Regional headquarters of many multinationals.
- English as the working language.
- High salaries and a renowned business environment.
How does the Singaporean labor market work?
The market remains dynamic and job-creating, but hiring is becoming more selective: employers screen more carefully for capability, adaptability and potential. Competition is strong for the best roles, which favors specialized profiles.
- A dynamic but more selective market.
- Strong competition for the best roles.
- Higher demands for skills and adaptability.
- A highly international environment.
Which sectors hire the most in Singapore?
- Finance and financial services: a global pillar.
- Technology and digital.
- Pharma and biotech.
- Logistics, maritime and trade.
- Business services and consulting.
Which areas should you target in Singapore?
- Singapore: a city-state with concentrated business districts.
- The CBD: finance and headquarters.
- One-North: tech, biotech and research.
- Jurong: industry and logistics.
Work permit: the steps for foreigners
Foreigners need a work pass suited to their profile. The Employment Pass targets qualified, well-paid profiles, the S Pass mid-level profiles. The process is employer-led.
- Employment Pass: for qualified, well-paid profiles.
- S Pass: for mid-level profiles.
- An employer-led process, with salary thresholds.
Salaries and cost of living: what to expect
Salaries are among the highest in Asia, especially in finance and tech, but the cost of living (notably housing) is among the world's highest. Purchasing power remains high for qualified profiles.
- Salaries among the highest in Asia.
- A very high cost of living, especially housing.
- Strong purchasing power for qualified profiles.
How to find a job, internship or apprenticeship in Singapore?
- Targeted unsolicited applications (see below).
- Networking and professional platforms.
- Regional headquarters and multinationals.
- Specialized agencies (finance, tech).
The unsolicited application: the key to Singapore's hidden job market
In a selective, competitive market, contacting companies directly helps you stand out. The unsolicited application gives you access to the hidden market and showcases your skills to regional headquarters, before any ad.
- You reach companies seeking sharp profiles.
- You target regional headquarters and multinationals.
- You show your motivation and initiative.
- You get ahead of the competition.
Succeeding in your professional integration: our tips
- Use the English-language advantage.
- Showcase specialized, international skills.
- Target finance, tech and pharma.
- Anticipate the high cost of housing.
Your next steps to work in Singapore
Target a sector, prepare a CV in English, then contact companies and regional headquarters directly. A demanding market rewards specialized, proactive profiles.