An employer must buy a S$5,000 security bond for each non-Malaysian Work Permit holder and cannot pass that cost to the worker.
The banker’s or insurer’s guarantee must use MOM’s specified template and take effect when the worker arrives.
Budget per worker
The requirement is S$5,000 for each non-Malaysian Work Permit holder, not one company-level amount that automatically covers a workforce. Build the arrival plan with one row per worker, guarantee reference and effective period. (MOM security-bond requirements)
MOM expressly says the employer cannot ask the worker to pay for the bond. Do not deduct the premium, guarantee cost or forfeiture risk from salary without a lawful basis.
| Situation | What changes |
|---|---|
| Worker is Malaysian | This MOM security-bond requirement does not apply |
| Worker is non-Malaysian | Buy S$5,000 security before arrival |
| Guarantee comes from a bank | Use template MOM_SB_MW |
| Guarantee comes from an insurer | Use template MOM_SB |
Use the correct guarantee
The security bond is a banker’s or insurer’s guarantee naming MOM as beneficiary. MOM lists different templates depending on provider. Send the exact Work Permit and worker details to the bank or insurer and check the issued document. (MOM Work Permit renewal guide)
The bond must take effect when the worker arrives. A gap can prevent entry and create repatriation costs. Coordinate flight booking only after the provider confirms transmission timing and effective date.
Example: Three non-Malaysian Work Permit holders require three S$5,000 guarantees, so the employer’s total bond exposure is S$15,000. That does not mean S$15,000 is automatically paid in cash; the guarantee arrangement and provider charges are separate.
Allow transmission time
MOM’s application guidance notes that insurers may need working days to send the details. A policy PDF in the employer’s inbox does not prove MOM has received the electronic record. Check the Work Permit portal status rather than relying only on the purchase receipt.
For a full two-year renewal, passport and security-bond validity need to support the intended permit duration. Review passport expiry, bond expiry, insurance and renewal eligibility as one package.
- Confirm nationality and pass type
- Select bank or insurer
- Use the correct MOM template
- Set the arrival-effective date
- Confirm electronic transmission
- Check portal status before travel
- Track renewal and passport dates
