SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will stop accepting new applications to hire foreign workers under the Performing Artiste Work Permit scheme from Jun 1, 2026, following widespread abuse by syndicates.

Recent enforcement operations conducted by MOM and the police had uncovered syndicates of non-operating public entertainment outlets hiring foreign performing artistes under the scheme. These foreigners were subsequently released to work at other public entertainment outlets and locations. 

"In view of the widespread abuse of the scheme, MOM, in consultation with relevant agencies, has assessed that the scheme is no longer serving its origi...