Work Permit Holders Unable to Enter Singapore due to Lack of Dormitory Spaces in 2022

Mr Desmond Choo asked the Minister for Manpower what is the number of approved work permit holders, by industry, who are unable to come into Singapore because of a lack of dormitory spaces in 2022.

Dr Tan See Leng: MOM does not track the number or the reasons why approved Work Permit Holders do not enter Singapore. Occupancy rates at dormitories are currently high as the number of Work Permit Holders in the Construction, Marine and Process (CMP) sectors is currently at more than 10% higher than pre-COVID levels. In the second half of 2022, the net inflow of workers in the CMP sectors to Singapore has continued to be high, averaging over 7,000 per month.

MOM will continue to monitor the situation and work with the dormitory industry on measures to increase dormitory bed supply and help employers access available dormitory beds. Employers can also consider applying to build more Factory Converted Dormitories or Construction Temporary Quarters.

Migrant worker numbers cannot keep rising as current levels are already significantly above pre-COVID levels. We urge employers to adopt productivity measures to reduce their reliance on manpower to drive output.