15 December, 2025
Mandatory Foreign Worker Medical Insurance Requirements for Work Permit Holders
Hiring foreign workers in Singapore comes with specific responsibilities, and one of the most important is securing mandatory foreign worker medical insurance for all Work Permit holders. This requirement, set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), ensures that employers provide adequate protection for workers while safeguarding themselves from unexpected medical costs.
This article explains the compulsory medical insurance guidelines, the minimum coverage required, and how employers can stay compliant
What Is Foreign Worker Medical Insurance?
Foreign Worker Medical Insurance is a mandatory requirement that obligates employers to purchase and maintain medical coverage for every migrant worker under their employment, and the cost cannot be passed on to the workers. This insurance is separate from work injury compensation, as it focuses on covering inpatient treatments and day surgery expenses for illnesses or conditions that may not be related to work.
Minimum Coverage Requirements
Foreign Worker Medical Insurance is a mandatory requirement that requires employers to purchase and maintain medical coverage for every migrant worker they hire, and the cost cannot be passed on to the workers. As of July 1, 2023, employers must provide each worker with a minimum annual coverage of SGD 60,000, which represents a major increase from the previous requirement of SGD 15,000.
Coverage Must Include:
- Inpatient hospitalization for work-related and non-work-related illnesses or injuries
- Day surgery procedures performed in medical facilities
- Pre- and post-hospitalization expenses related to covered treatments
- Rehabilitation treatment received in community hospitals (offered by some insurers)
Important Coverage Notes:
If your insurance plan includes sub-limits for specific procedures like surgeries or hospital stays, each sub-limit must also meet the minimum SGD 60,000 requirement. This ensures comprehensive protection across all types of medical care.
Who Must Be Covered?
Foreign Worker Medical insurance is mandatory for:
- Work Permit holders in all sectors (construction, marine, manufacturing, services)
- S Pass holders across all industries
- Migrant domestic workers (foreign domestic helpers)
Employment Pass holders are exempt from this requirement and are not covered under the foreign worker medical insurance framework.
Employer Best Practices
Keep Comprehensive Records: Maintain both electronic and physical copies of insurance policies, certificates, and renewal documentation. Update Work Permit Online (WPOL) immediately when policies change or renew.
Ensure Worker Understanding: Confirm that workers comprehend their coverage details, how to access medical care, and any cost-sharing arrangements. Provide information in translated formats when needed.
Conduct Annual Reviews: Insurance costs and coverage options evolve regularly. Assess your policies annually to verify they remain sufficient and competitive.
Conclusion
Foreign worker medical insurance is an essential safeguard that protects both employers and migrant workers in Singapore. By ensuring proper coverage, employers support worker well-being, reduce financial risks, and remain compliant with MOM regulations. If you are looking for guidance or wish to secure the right insurance plan for your workforce, contact us today to request a quote and get started.