Singapore to end foreign artiste work permits June 2026 over misuse

• Singapore will end the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme from June 1, 2026, due to widespread misuse.
• The scheme, introduced in 2008, allowed licensed venues to hire foreign performers for short-term engagements.
• Investigations revealed syndicates illegally deploying foreign performers, leading to the scheme's discontinuation.
• Businesses have until June 2026 to adjust, with existing passes valid until expiry.
• Alternative options for foreign performers include regular work passes, outsourcing, or the Work Pass Exempt framework for specific events.

Why It Matters: Singapore ends a work permit scheme, impacting foreign performers and nightlife due to misuse.