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MOM Investigating Companies Involved in Airport Operations for Suspected Work Pass Offences

Foreign manpower Work passes and permits
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is investigating around 45 companies involved in airport operations at Changi Airport for suspected offences and infringements under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act 1990 (EFMA), including false declarations and illegal deployment of foreign workers. 

2 During a recent inspection at Changi Airport, MOM found Employment Pass (EP) holders deployed to perform baggage handling services. Preliminary investigations suggest that the salaries and occupations declared to MOM for these EP holders were false. Other work pass holders were also found performing baggage handling work, which was different from their declared occupations. 

3 Investigations have so far identified around 270 workers whose deployment may not have been in compliance with work pass regulations. These workers were employed by SATS’ contractors and sub-contractors. 

4 MOM has directed SATS to strengthen its oversight of the companies that they have contracted, which includes verifying that foreign workers are deployed in accordance with their work passes, and rectifying any compliance deficiencies. MOM has also issued an advisory to other companies involved in SATS’ operations, underscoring their obligation to comply with the EFMA and applicable work pass requirements.
 
Penalties for False Declarations and Illegal Deployment

5 MOM takes a serious view of work pass offences. Investigations are ongoing and MOM will take enforcement action if breaches of the EFMA are established. MOM will continue to conduct checks to ensure compliance with work pass requirements.  

6 Under the EFMA, making a false declaration in a work pass application carries a fine of up to $20,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. Employers who illegally deploy a foreign employee may face a financial penalty of up to $10,000. They may also be barred from hiring work pass holders. 

7 Members of the public who are aware of suspected work pass infringements are encouraged to report them to MOM through its Report an Infringement eService. All information provided will be kept strictly confidential.