Firms in Singapore are barred from hiring freelancers in creative services

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Visual, Audio, and Creative Content Professionals Association (Vicpa) issued a joint advisory on Sept. It states that companies in Singapore are barred from hiring foreign freelancers for creative services such as photography, videography and makeup work.

The advisory emphasized that foreigners on tourist or student visas are not allowed to provide paid services or promote them locally. MOM stated it had received reports of foreign freelancers hired for weddings and other events, which violates the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA).

Both companies and individuals found guilty of such arrangements could face penalties of up to S$20,000, two years in jail, or both. Foreigners caught working without a valid pass may also be barred from entering or working in Singapore in the future. MOM mentioned it investigates complaints and conducts enforcement checks, receiving about two cases a year in the wedding sector from 2021 to 2024.

According to Vicpa, local creatives have raised concerns about foreign freelancers undercutting prices while avoiding costs such as MediSave contributions, taxes, insurance and equipment expenses. It noted that social media has made it easier for overseas freelancers to advertise directly to Singapore clients.

To address this, Vicpa monitors online platforms, shares leads with MOM and educates businesses and clients about ethical hiring. It urged companies to hire local professionals and highlighted the NTUC Freelancer Directory, which lists vetted creatives who follow industry standards.

“Our goal is not to stifle competition, but to maintain a fair and level playing field where Singapore’s creative talent is respected, valued and supported,” said Vicpa executive secretary Jagathishwaran Rajo.

The advisory was jointly signed by MOM’s Foreign Manpower Management Division director Tan Shu Xiang and Vicpa’s Jagathishwaran.