Key facts on Work Permit for performing artiste

Get an overview and key facts about the Work Permit for foreign performing artistes to work in public entertainment outlets.

From 1 June 2026, we will cease the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme. Businesses will not be able to apply for new foreign performing artistes on this work pass, but can retain their existing workers until their passes expire.

Businesses can engage entertainment services from service providers instead of hiring performers directly or continue to hire eligible foreign performing artistes on a regular work pass. They can also engage foreigners for short-term performances under the Work Pass Exempt (WPE) framework for events supported by the government or any statutory board, or held at a public performance venue, except for bars, discotheques, lounges, nightclub, pub, hotel, private club or restaurant venues with a Category 1 Public Entertainment Licence (PEL).

Pass facts

Who it is for	Foreign performing artistes working in eligible public entertainment outlets.
Who can apply	An employer or appointed employment agent needs to apply for the permit.
Qualifying salary	No minimum required.
What is the duration	Up to 6 months.
Is it renewable	No. Pass holders cannot get any type of Work Permit until 1 year after the last one expires or gets cancelled.
Passes for family	Not available.
Quota and levy	Yes. Employers are subject to quota and levy for each Work Permit holder.
Medical insurance	Employers must provide medical insurance.
Relevant legislation	Conditions of Work Pass Employment of Foreign Manpower Act
Related eServices and forms	Access online services and forms for Work Permit for performing artiste.

Note: Employers should withhold 15% of pass holder’s income for tax payment to IRAS (if applicable).

Pass map

Overview of what you need to do before, during and after you apply for a Work Permit for Performing Artiste.

Before applying

- Know the eligibility and requirements to apply.

Before worker's arrival

Apply for Work Permit
- Apply for the Work Permit and wait for the outcome.
- (If your pass is approved) Get an in-principle approval letter.
Prepare for worker's arrival
- Ensure that your worker complies with the latest travel requirements.
- Buy a security bond.
- Buy medical insurance and submit the insurance details online.

Upon worker's arrival

Before permit can be issued
- Send the worker for a medical examination by a Singapore-registered doctor within 2 weeks of arrival.
Get the Work Permit issued
- When the worker arrives, you can get the permit issued and you will get a notification letter stating whether registration is required.
- If required, make an appointment for the worker to register their fingerprints and photo.
- Receive the Work Permit card at the address provided 5 working days after registration or document verification.