In Singapore, hiring a foreign worker comes with responsibilities that extend beyond employment contracts. One of the critical requirements is ensuring your worker passes the mandatory medical check up for work permit approval. This medical examination helps identify health conditions that may affect their ability to work or pose risks to public health. But what happens if your worker does not pass this check-up?
Understanding the implications of a failed medical check-up is essential for employers. It affects your hiring plans, potential replacement procedures, and even the long-term eligibility of the worker to remain in Singapore. This article explains the process, consequences, and what steps you can take to respond appropriately.
Why the Medical Check-Up Matters
The medical check up for work permit is a mandatory requirement by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore. It includes tests for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and syphilis, along with assessments of physical and mental fitness. For female workers, a pregnancy test is also included.
This medical check-up is not a mere formality—it’s designed to protect both the public and the worker. Certain health conditions can affect the worker’s ability to perform their duties safely or may pose a health risk to others in the community. For example, someone diagnosed with active tuberculosis would need treatment and isolation, making them unfit for employment during that time.
When Is the Medical Check-Up Done?
Newly arrived workers must complete their medical check-up within 14 days of arrival in Singapore. The results are submitted to MOM as part of the work permit issuance process. Similarly, foreign domestic workers must undergo six-monthly medical examinations to retain their work permit status. If a worker fails any of these check-ups, the consequences can vary based on the type of health issue identified.
What Happens If the Worker Fails?
When a worker fails their medical check-up, the clinic sends the results directly to MOM. Depending on the severity and nature of the condition, MOM may reject the work permit application or revoke an existing permit.
- Permit Rejection or Cancellation: If a worker is deemed medically unfit, their work permit will not be issued. If the worker is already employed and fails a subsequent check-up, the existing permit may be cancelled. In both cases, the employer will be responsible for arranging the worker’s repatriation.
- No Appeal for Certain Conditions: MOM has a strict policy against hiring workers with certain medical conditions, especially contagious or serious illnesses like HIV or tuberculosis. Appeals for reconsideration are rarely accepted unless supported by new medical evidence from an approved re-examination.
- Pregnancy in Female Workers: For foreign domestic workers, pregnancy can result in the cancellation of the work permit, as employers are not permitted to hire pregnant FDWs under MOM regulations. In such cases, the employer must arrange for her return to her home country.
Responsibilities of Employers
Employers are required to ensure their workers comply with all medical examination timelines and requirements. If a worker fails the medical check-up, the employer must:
- Arrange for the worker to leave Singapore, usually within a stipulated timeframe (often 7 to 14 days).
- Bear the cost of repatriation.
- Inform MOM if the worker refuses to cooperate with departure arrangements.
Employers are also responsible for any additional testing or follow-ups if requested by MOM. Failure to comply can result in penalties or blacklisting.
Are There Alternatives or Second Opinions?
In rare cases where results are disputed—such as a false positive—employers may request a re-test at another MOM-approved medical provider. However, this must be done swiftly, and the appeal should be supported with documentation. It is important to note that MOM holds the final say and does not entertain prolonged appeals.
Some employers also proactively send workers for pre-departure medical screenings in their home countries. While not a substitute for the mandatory check-up in Singapore, it may help reduce the likelihood of failure upon arrival.
Preventive Steps for Employers
To reduce the chance of facing such disruptions, employers should:
- Hire from reputable recruitment agencies that perform initial health screenings.
- Request health records or certification from the worker’s home country.
- Choose a clinic in Singapore that is accredited and experienced in handling MOM medical screening requirements.
- Educate workers about the importance of health, vaccinations, and lifestyle practices that can impact medical results.
Being proactive can save time, cost, and stress in the long run, especially when it comes to managing manpower in a highly regulated environment like Singapore.
Managing the Financial and Operational Impact
The cancellation of a worker’s work permit can lead to delays in project timelines and increased hiring costs. Employers may also lose the money spent on work permit application fees, airfare, agency fees, and more.
Some companies mitigate this risk by taking medical insurance or coverage plans that can provide limited reimbursement in case of medical disqualification. Others work with employment agencies that offer worker replacement clauses in such situations.
Support from Approved Clinics
To ensure smooth processing and reliable testing, it’s important to work with a clinic that understands MOM regulations and requirements thoroughly. An experienced clinic can offer:
- Fast and accurate submission of test results
- Advice on next steps in case of failure
- Retesting procedures (where applicable)
- Clear communication to both employer and worker
This ensures you are not left in the dark about what to do when a worker does not meet the health standards required for their employment pass.
Conclusion
Failing a medical check up for work permit in Singapore is a serious matter with legal and operational implications for employers. Whether it’s due to an infectious disease, pregnancy, or other disqualifying conditions, the result often leads to permit cancellation and repatriation of the worker. Employers must understand their responsibilities, respond promptly, and work with trusted medical providers to manage the situation effectively.
By staying informed and proactive, you can reduce disruption to your workforce and maintain compliance with Singapore’s employment laws. Medical screening may seem routine, but it is a cornerstone of the foreign manpower framework—designed to ensure a healthy and safe working environment for all.
Prioritise Accurate and Timely Screening Today and Partner with Keystone Clinic & Surgery
If you’re looking for a reliable partner for your workers’ medical screening needs, Keystone Clinic & Surgery offers MOM-approved medical check up for work permit services with fast turnaround times and expert guidance.
Located conveniently in Singapore, we help employers stay compliant, reduce delays, and ensure peace of mind. Book your worker’s medical check-up with us today at https://keystonemedical.com.sg or contact us directly for corporate inquiries.
References
Mom.gov.sg. Medical Examination for Migrant Worker. https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-permit-for-foreign-worker/sector-specific-rules/medical-examination
Keystonemedical.com.sg. Are 6ME Checks Fully Subsidised by the Employer and How Can One Best Prepare for It? https://keystonemedical.com.sg/are-6me-checks-fully-subsidised-by-the-employer-and-how-can-one-best-prepare-for-it/