Part-Time Jobs: Options For International Students In Singapore

Singapore is one of the most expensive countries in the world, and international students often seek part-time work to help meet their expenses. The good news is that it is permitted for international students to work part-time in Singapore, provided they follow the set rules and adhere to the restrictions. Students must be enrolled in an approved institution and hold a valid Student Pass, which also acts as a part-time employment pass. During term time, students are allowed to work a maximum of 16 hours per week, and full-time during breaks.

Part-time work rules and restrictions

International students in Singapore can work part-time, provided they follow the set rules and restrictions. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore has set out directions to ensure that students give equal importance to their studies and work.

Firstly, students must be enrolled in a full-time programme at an approved institution. The university or college must be on the list of approved institutions by the MOM. If the university does not have an industrial attachment programme, students are not eligible for part-time work. Students must also hold a valid Student Pass issued by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and be aged 14 or above.

During term time, students are only permitted to work a maximum of 16 hours per week. During vacations, students can work full-time. If a student wishes to work more than 16 hours per week during term time, they must apply for a special work permit.

There are various part-time job opportunities in Singapore for international students, including internships, freelance work, and work in hospitality, retail, tutoring, and administration. Popular jobs include restaurant and cafe staff, sales associates, and language tutors.

Student pass and visa requirements

To study full-time in Singapore, international students require a Student's Pass, also known as a student visa. The requirements and procedures for obtaining a Student's Pass differ slightly depending on the type of educational institution. However, there are some general guidelines and requirements that apply to all applicants.

Firstly, applicants must have been accepted into an approved full-time course in Singapore. Part-time courses, evening courses, and courses conducted on weekends are not eligible for the Student's Pass. Additionally, applicants must submit their application and the required fees before their course begins. It is recommended to submit the application at least one to two months in advance, especially during the busy period of July-August.

The application process involves submitting the required forms, such as Form 16 (the main application for the Student's Pass) and Form V36 (for additional information on the applicant). Applicants also need to provide a valid passport, proof of acceptance into an educational institution, and documentation showcasing how they intend to bear the costs associated with living in Singapore. PRC citizens above 19 years old, applying for certain types of courses at an EduTrust Private Education Institution (PEI), may be required to attend an interview at the Embassy.

The Student's Pass application can be submitted through the Student's Pass Online Application and Registration (SOLAR) system, which is Singapore's official registration system. The application fee is SGD 30, and it is non-refundable. Additionally, there is a visa issuance fee of SGD 60 for each Student's Pass issued. If the applicant wishes to exit and re-enter Singapore during their course, they must pay a multiple-entry fee of SGD 30. These issuance and multiple-entry fees are paid when the applicant collects their Student's Pass.

It typically takes up to 10 business days for the application to be processed. However, during peak periods or if additional information is required, it can take up to a month or even four months in some cases. Therefore, it is essential to start the visa process early and ensure that all required documentation is submitted correctly.

Popular part-time job options

International students in Singapore are permitted to work part-time, provided they follow certain rules and restrictions. Students can work up to 16 hours per week during their term time, and they must be enrolled full-time at an approved institution.

Now, let's take a look at some popular part-time job options for international students in Singapore:

On-Campus Jobs

Working on campus is a convenient option for international students. Various jobs are available, including working in the cafeteria, computer labs, libraries, and student unions. These jobs allow students to interact with their peers and gain valuable experience. Some universities also engage their international students in blogging and social media promotions.

Hospitality and Retail

Jobs in restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets are popular choices for international students. These roles include waiting staff, cashier, chef assistant, or food delivery staff. Students may also receive additional benefits, such as free meals or discounts.

Tutoring and Translation

Students proficient in languages can work as tutors or teach languages like English, Korean, Chinese, or Spanish. Those fluent in foreign languages can also work as translators or interpreters.

Administrative Roles

Administrative positions are another option for international students. These roles can provide valuable office experience and may include data-entry operator positions or other administrative support functions.

Freelance and Work-from-Home Jobs

Freelance or remote work is also an option for international students. These may include graphic design, programming, or digital art opportunities. Such roles provide flexibility and can be a great way to gain experience in creative fields.

The application process

International students in Singapore can take on part-time jobs, but they must adhere to certain rules and restrictions. The application process for part-time work as an international student in Singapore is as follows:

Firstly, students must ensure they are enrolled in a full-time programme at an approved institution. The institution must be on the list of approved institutions by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and it must have an industrial attachment program. This is a requirement for students to be eligible for part-time work.

Secondly, students must obtain a valid Student Pass, also known as a training work permit, from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). The Singapore Student Pass allows international students to work part-time for up to 16 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacation periods. Students should verify that their specific institution accepts the Student Pass.

Thirdly, students must find a suitable part-time job. Online job portals such as JobStreet, JobsDB, LinkedIn, Indeed, and Grabjobs are popular methods for finding part-time work. Recruitment agencies are also available to assist students in finding the best part-time opportunities.

It is important to note that the type of part-time job available to international students may depend on their student visa or pass. The work should not compromise their education and must fit within their student lifestyle. Additionally, if students wish to work more than 16 hours per week during their studies, they must apply for a special work permit.

Part-time jobs for international students in Singapore include internships, freelance work, data-entry, restaurant staff, sales associates, language tutors, and administrative roles. These opportunities can provide valuable work experience and income to support their living expenses.

Benefits of working part-time

International students in Singapore are eligible to work part-time for up to 16 hours a week during term time, and for an unlimited number of hours during vacations. Part-time work is a great option for international students in Singapore, offering numerous benefits, including:

Financial Self-Sufficiency

Part-time jobs can help students earn extra money to support themselves financially and ease the burden of living expenses in an expensive city like Singapore. The average monthly income for part-time work in Singapore ranges from USD 1,000 to USD 2,500, which can go a long way in covering basic costs.

Gaining Work Experience

Part-time jobs allow students to gain valuable work experience that can enhance their resumes and improve their employability after graduation. This work experience can help students stand out in the job market and increase their chances of finding full-time employment.

Developing Transferable Skills

Part-time work helps students develop essential transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving, time management, and teamwork. These skills are highly valued by employers and can be applied to future jobs, making students more well-rounded and adaptable.

Building a Professional Network

Part-time jobs offer students the opportunity to meet and interact with professionals in their field of interest. Building a strong professional network can open doors to future job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable industry connections.

Improving Language Skills

For international students, part-time work can provide an excellent opportunity to improve their language skills and fluency in the local language. This not only aids in their day-to-day communication but also enhances their overall employability.

Gaining Practical Experience

Part-time jobs in industries relevant to a student's field of study can offer valuable practical experience. For example, internships or freelance work related to a student's course can provide a real-world application of their academic knowledge, making them more prepared for their future careers.

Frequently asked questions