Average Salaries & Pay Practices for Businesses in Singapore

The gross median monthly income of employed residents in Singapore, from full-time work including employer CPF, was S$5,197 as of 2023. The gross average monthly income of full-time workers in the country is S$5,783, while on an annual basis, it reaches about S$69,396. These may have large differences depending on many variables like industry, occupation, education, and experience. Information technology professionals have an average salary of about S$ 60,432 annually while software engineering experts receive around S$ 63,000 annually. Please note that these statistics are subject to change since they depend on the country’s economic status and the job market. It is recommended to check official sources such as the Ministry of Manpower for the most current information.

Navigating Salary and Wage Obligations

The Employment Act sets the standards for salary payment, working hours, and employee privileges that employers in Singapore must adhere to. A normal work schedule can only be 8 hours a day and 44 hours a week, beyond which overtime compensation should be paid. To be fair for extra hours put in at work, employers are required to pay 1.5 times the hourly base rate of overtime pay. Salaries, with allowances and overtime included, shall be paid at least once a month and no later than 14 days after the end of the period for which the salary is due. The last wage is due within 14 days following the employee’s last day in the case of resignation or termination.

Employers hiring foreign employees also have to follow other guidelines, such as issuing a Work Permit or Employment Pass and also payment of CPF for the qualifying employees. The CPF contributions are exempted for foreign workers; however local employees have to pay as per the current rates in the country. Still, the employees have to offer attractive remuneration packages and good employment contracts to get and retain skilled manpower.

Key Features for Wage Compliance and Efficiency

To ensure accuracy and compliance, employers are required to issue itemized pay slips to all employees covered under the Employment Act. These pay slips must detail the basic salary, allowances, and deductions such as CPF contributions. For example, calculating wages involves understanding the hourly basic rate of pay for part-time or overtime work, which is essential for roles with flexible schedules. Payroll processing tools and HR software, such as calculators for overtime and CPF contributions, can help you save time while ensuring adherence to legal requirements.

Basic Monthly Salary and Minimum Wage in Singapore

In Singapore, the basic monthly salary refers to the fixed payment an employee receives, excluding additional payments such as overtime, bonuses, and allowances. Unlike many countries, Singapore does not have a nationwide minimum wage. However, specific sectors, such as cleaning and security services, are subject to a Local Qualifying Salary (LQS), ensuring a minimum base salary for Singapore citizens and permanent residents. Employers are required to pay salaries that meet or exceed these benchmarks to comply with fair and progressive employment practices, as outlined by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). For most employees covered by the Employment Act, salaries must be paid within seven days after the end of the pay period.

Salary Components and Employee Protections

Employees in Singapore are entitled to their base salary and additional payments such as overtime pay for work done beyond standard hours. For instance:

• One day’s salary plus overtime is required for working on a rest day.
• Two days’ salary plus overtime applies if the employee works on their off day.
• Half a day’s salary is paid for partial rest-day work.

To comply with MOM regulations, employers must issue itemized pay slips to employees covered by the Employment Act. This ensures transparency in salary records and compliance with requirements enforced by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). Failure to pay the salary within the stipulated period or to issue pay slips can result in penalties.

Managing Salaries with HR and Payroll Tools

Efficient management of salary requirements is essential for businesses in Singapore. Tools like Payboy HR and Payroll Software help employers streamline processes, from issuing itemized pay slips to calculating overtime. These systems allow employers to focus on their business while ensuring compliance with salary laws, including managing payment for resignation without notice. Employers are also required to pay any outstanding salaries within 14 days of an employee’s resignation or dismissal. Leveraging such tools reduces administrative burdens and ensures adherence to fair employment practices, providing everything you need to know to manage your HR effectively.

By understanding these components and utilizing available tools, employers can ensure timely payment, maintain accurate salary records, and focus on sustainable business growth while complying with Singapore’s employment regulations.

Encouraging Sustainable Business Practices

Employers are encouraged to adopt fair and progressive practices, such as offering an Annual Wage Supplement (AWS) and providing one rest day per week. This enhances employee satisfaction and aligns with emerging HR trends in Singapore. A comprehensive guide for employers in Singapore ensures a clear understanding of wage laws, fostering trust between the employer and the employee. Whether managing a contract of service for local hires or navigating the complexities of hiring foreign employees, businesses must focus on payroll accuracy and legal compliance to remain competitive in Singapore’s vibrant economy.

Singapore Employee Remuneration Trends

A recent KPMG survey found that only 38% of Singapore’s top 100 companies tie their executives’ pay to sustainability goals, down from 67% in 2022. This decline may be due to companies being cautious about new rules requiring disclosure of such links, which will be mandatory for Singapore-listed firms from the 2025 financial year.

Despite this, Singapore’s leading companies excel in other areas of sustainability reporting. Notably, 76% recognize climate change as a financial risk, surpassing the global average of 55%. Additionally, 84% include environmental, social, and governance (ESG) information in their annual reports, compared to the global average of 62%.

However, only 37% of these companies have their sustainability data independently verified, which is below the global average of 54%, indicating room for improvement in ensuring the credibility of their ESG disclosures.

Why is it Mandatory for Singapore-listed firms to Disclose Executive Pay?

The requirement for Singapore-listed firms to disclose links between executive pay and sustainability goals aligns with global efforts to enhance corporate accountability and transparency in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters. Here’s why it is becoming mandatory:

Alignment with Global Standards

Singapore is adopting the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) framework, which emphasizes consistent and comparable sustainability disclosures worldwide. Linking executive pay to sustainability goals ensures companies are accountable for their ESG commitments.

Encouraging Corporate Responsibility

This mandate motivates businesses to integrate sustainability into their core strategies. By tying executive remuneration to measurable sustainability outcomes, companies are incentivized to prioritize long-term environmental and social performance over short-term gains.

Transparency and Investor Confidence

Investors increasingly demand greater clarity on how companies address ESG risks and opportunities. Disclosing the alignment between executive incentives and sustainability goals reassures stakeholders that companies are serious about their ESG commitments.

Meeting Regulatory Expectations

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) has mandated ESG disclosures to foster a robust sustainability reporting culture. This requirement ensures listed companies adhere to best practices, enhancing Singapore’s position as a sustainable and transparent financial hub.

Addressing Climate and Social Risks

Linking pay to sustainability metrics ensures that executives are held accountable for managing risks related to climate change, resource use, and social impacts, which are critical for long-term business resilience.

In essence, this requirement promotes responsible business practices, strengthens investor trust, and aligns Singapore’s corporate ecosystem with international ESG benchmarks.

Are there any Incentives for Companies to Achieve Greater Sustainability in Singapore?

Singapore offers a range of incentives to encourage companies to adopt sustainable practices:

Financial Incentives and Grants

The government provides various grants to support businesses in their sustainability efforts. For instance, the Enterprise Sustainability Programme assists companies in developing capabilities in sustainability. Additionally, the Resource Efficiency Grant and the Energy Efficiency Fund help businesses invest in energy-efficient technologies and processes.

Tax Incentives

The Development and Expansion Incentive (DEI) encourages companies to grow capabilities and conduct new or expanded economic activities in Singapore. Companies that carry out global or regional headquarters activities may also apply for DEI for these activities.

Green Financing Initiatives

Singapore is enhancing its green finance collaboration with international partners to facilitate green finance flows and develop decarbonization platforms. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has announced plans to issue up to $1.9 billion in sovereign green bonds to fund environmental projects, providing companies with access to green financing options.

Regulatory Support and Infrastructure

The Singapore Green Plan 2030 outlines targets such as installing up to 60,000 electric vehicle charging points and greening 80% of buildings by 2030. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) promotes green building technologies through initiatives like the Green Mark Scheme, encouraging companies to adopt sustainable building practices.

These incentives are part of Singapore’s broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, fostering a sustainable business ecosystem and encouraging companies to integrate sustainability into their operations.

What Singapore Incentives can Foreign-Owned SMEs Qualify For?

Foreign-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in Singapore may be eligible for various government incentives aimed at promoting business growth and sustainability. However, specific eligibility criteria apply:

Enterprise Development Grant (EDG)

The EDG supports projects that help businesses upgrade, innovate, and expand internationally. Eligibility criteria include:

• Company Registration: The business must be registered and operating in Singapore.
• Local Shareholding: At least 30% of the company’s shares must be held directly or indirectly by Singapore citizens or Permanent Residents.
• Financial Viability: The company should be in a financially sound position to start and complete the project.

These criteria apply to all companies, regardless of foreign ownership. Therefore, foreign-owned SMEs with at least 30% local shareholding can qualify for the EDG.

Development and Expansion Incentive (DEI)

The DEI encourages companies to expand high-value activities in Singapore by offering a concessionary tax rate on qualifying income. Eligibility considerations include:

• Economic Contribution: The company must make significant investments that contribute to the Singaporean economy or advance capabilities toward globally leading industries.
• Qualifying Activities: Engagement in high-value-added services or activities is required.
• Foreign-owned SMEs can apply for the DEI if they meet these criteria. Approval is subject to the company’s commitment to growing and sustaining substantive economic activities in Singapore.

Additional Considerations

Foreign-owned SMEs should ensure compliance with all specific requirements of each incentive program. Consulting with Enterprise Singapore or the Singapore Economic Development Board is advisable to confirm eligibility and understand the application process.

In summary, foreign-owned SMEs with at least 30% local shareholding and a commitment to contributing to Singapore’s economic development can qualify for various government incentives, including the EDG and DEI.

How Can We Help You?

Paul Hype Page & Co. offers comprehensive services to support business growth in Singapore, including company incorporation, Employment Pass applications, corporate secretarial services, and tax compliance. We assist businesses in leveraging government grants like the Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant, which covers up to 50% of eligible costs for overseas expansion. Tailored solutions such as payroll outsourcing, bookkeeping, and audit services ensure compliance and operational efficiency. With a deep understanding of Singapore’s regulatory landscape, we provide end-to-end support, enabling businesses to focus on growth and thrive in Singapore’s dynamic market.

Sources:

1. Average Median Income/Salary in Singapore by Age
2. Average Salary in Singapore in 2024
3. Learn about our Incentives & Schemes for Businesses

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