S’pore government will pay you up to S$72,000 to work abroad. But time and places are running out.

The Singapore government is offering a generous scheme, known as OMIP (Overseas Markets Immersion Programme), to help workers gain valuable skills and experience by working abroad. This initiative provides state financing for those who lack sufficient experience and would benefit from an overseas posting, regardless of whether they are recent graduates or middle-aged workers seeking a career boost.

The scheme covers up to 70% of the candidate's salary, capped at S$5,000 per month, and living expenses capped at S$3,000, totaling S$8,000 per month for up to nine months overseas, amounting to S$72,000 in total. Currently running for two years (2025 and 2026), the pilot program targets 250 local workers employed by Singapore-registered businesses.

With less than 70 places remaining, it's expected that the final quarter of 2026 may be the last chance to apply for this opportunity. The scheme is open to Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum age of 21, having no experience in the new role, industry, or market, and not currently participating in any other SWDA-funded programmes.

Companies must also register in Singapore, have plans for market expansion or business transformation, and offer a full-time permanent or contract position with a minimum monthly salary of S$4,000. The Singapore Business Federation manages OMIP, and the application process takes six weeks, with the starting date no longer than six months from approval.