At present a non-Malaysian Work Permit holder may start work from their second day in Singapore using the IPA letter. MOM says that from 29 November 2026 all workers can only start work after the Work Permit is issued, or if they hold a Temporary Permit (TP) letter. Employers apply for the TP on the myMOM Portal: for a non-Malaysian worker on the day the worker needs to start, and for a Malaysian worker after the IPA once the worker is in Singapore, with the TP letter available to download and pass to the worker. The levy starts on the day the TP is granted. If you are starting a job around that date, ask your employer for your Work Permit or your TP letter and keep a copy; if you are not sure your permit has been issued, ask your employer or contact MOM.