KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Singapore will end the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme from 1 June 2026
- MOM found serious misuse, including foreign performers being illegally deployed
- Existing permits stay valid, but nightlife hiring models must change
From 1 June 2026, the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme will be gone. No new applications. No extensions. Full stop.
For bar owners, club operators, and foreign performers, this isn’t just policy talk. It affects how live entertainment will be staffed across the island.
Why MOM Is Pulling the Plug
The scheme was introduced in 2008 with a simple idea.
Licensed bars, hotels, and nightclubs could hire foreign singers, dancers, and live performers for up to six months at a time.
But over the years, enforcement agencies noticed something wasn’t right.
What Investigations Uncovered
Joint operations by MOM and the Singapore Police Force found organised abuse.
Some entities registered as public entertainment outlets were hiring performers “on paper”, then sending them to work elsewhere illegally.
Basically, the permit became a backdoor work pass.
After reviewing the scale of misuse, MOM concluded the scheme no longer serves its original purpose.
Singapore to End Performing Artiste Work Permit
| Area | Before June 2026 | From June 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| New applications | Allowed | Not accepted |
| Existing permits | Valid | Valid until expiry only |
| Direct hiring of artistes | Common | Restricted |
| Enforcement risk | Moderate | Higher scrutiny |
| Alternative hiring routes | Limited | Strongly encouraged |
What Changes from 1 June 2026
The most important point is this.
MOM will stop accepting all new Work Permit (Performing Artiste) applications from 1 June 2026.
There’s no sudden shutdown, though.
What Happens to Existing Permit Holders
If you already employ foreign performers under this scheme:
- They can continue working until their permit expires, or
- Until the permit is cancelled
Whichever comes first.
This gives businesses some breathing room to adjust.
How Nightlife Businesses Are Expected to Adapt
MOM didn’t act alone.
The ministry consulted the Singapore Nightlife Business Association (SNBA) before finalising the decision.
The goal is clear: give operators time to rethink how they bring in live acts without breaking the rules.
With rental and manpower costs already high, this change will hit margins. Planning early matters.
What Hiring Options Are Still Available
Live music and performances aren’t banned.
The hiring method just needs to change.
Using Licensed Entertainment Service Providers
Public entertainment outlets can still engage performers through approved service providers.
Instead of hiring artistes directly, you pay for a performance service.
This creates clearer accountability and reduces abuse. For many operators, this will become the default option.
Hiring Under Standard Work Passes
Eligible foreign performers can still be hired using regular work passes, as long as all MOM criteria are met.
Stricter checks, yes. But it fits Singapore’s manpower framework better.
Short-Term Performances: What’s Still Allowed
Some performances can still happen without a work pass — but only in very specific cases.
Where the Work Pass Exempt (WPE) Framework Applies
The WPE framework covers:
- Government-supported events
- Statutory board programmes
- Approved public venues
Where WPE Does NOT Apply
The exemption does not cover:
- Bars
- Nightclubs
- Lounges
- Pubs
- Hotels
- Private clubs
- Restaurants with a Category 1 Public Entertainment Licence
So for live bands at bars? Much tighter rules now.
What This Means for Singapore’s Nightlife
This move fits a wider trend.
Singapore is tightening controls to protect workers and prevent work pass misuse — while still trying not to suffocate legitimate businesses.
MOM says it will keep working with MTI and SNBA to monitor how the sector adjusts.
There’s still time. But waiting until 2026 is risky.
What You Should Do Next
If you run a nightlife business:
- Review your staffing model now
- Speak to licensed entertainment service providers
- Check which work passes fit your needs
If you’re a performer:
- Check your permit expiry date
- Explore alternative work pass options early
No need to panic. But no point dragging feet either.
Change is coming — slowly, but surely.
Frequently Asked Questions
When exactly will the Performing Artiste Work Permit end in Singapore?
MOM will stop accepting new applications from 1 June 2026. Existing permits remain valid until expiry.
Can bars still hire foreign singers or bands after 2026?
Yes, but mainly through licensed entertainment service providers or standard work passes. Direct hiring under this scheme will no longer be allowed.
Does this affect short-term overseas performers for events?
Only certain events qualify under the Work Pass Exempt (WPE) framework. Bars and nightclubs are generally not covered.
