Finance & Compliance

Understanding Part-Time Employment Regulations in Singapore

Winnie Lu

Jul 9, 2024

As an HR professional or employer, understanding the regulations and best practices for hiring part-time employees is crucial. This guide provides comprehensive insights into part-time employment in Singapore, covering working hours, pay rates, foreign worker eligibility, moonlighting legality, and the rights of part-time employees.

What is Part-Time Employment?


Part-time employment refers to a work arrangement where employees work fewer hours compared to full-time employees. This flexibility makes part-time roles attractive for various groups, including students, parents, and individuals seeking work-life balance.

Benefits for Part-Time Employees


Part-time employees work fewer hours but still enjoy pro-rated benefits and protections under the law, including:

Overtime Pay


If the part-timer’s working hours exceed his / her daily working hours but less than a full-time employee's normal hours, the overtime pay is calculated based on the hourly rate. If a part-timer’s working hours exceed a full-time employee’s normal working hours, his / her overtime pay for the additional hours will be 1.5 times their basic hourly pay. 

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko

Pro-Rated Leave


Part-time employees are also entitled to annual leave and sick leave, maternity leave , etc., in proportion to the yearly entitlement of a similar full-time employee, based on the part-timer’s working hours.

CPF Contributions


CPF Contributions
of part-time employees is mandatory for employees who are Singapore citizens or permanent residents and earning above SGD 50 per month.

Rest Days and Public Holidays


Part-time employees are also entitled to rest days and public holidays. The rest day can be a Sunday or any other day based on employer's requirements and schedule.

Minimum Hours for Part-Time Employment


While there is no specific minimum hour requirement for part-time work in Singapore, some contracts stipulate a minimum of 20 hours per week. This ensures a consistent income for part-timers and meets contractual obligations. "Part-time 20 hours" typically means the employee works 20 hours per week.

Determining Part-Time Pay Rates in Singapore


There’s no regulation of minimum wage in Singapore and part-time salaries in Singapore vary depending on the industry, job role, and experience. On average, part-time employees earn between SGD 7 to SGD 15 per hour.

Calculating Part-Time Salaries


Calculating part-time salaries involves multiplying the hourly rate by the number of hours worked. For example, if a part-timer earns SGD 10 per hour and works 20 hours a week, their weekly salary would be SGD 200. Employers should also account for CPF contributions and any applicable deductions.

Crafting Part-Time Employment Contracts


A part-time employment contract should clearly outline the terms and conditions of employment, including working hours, pay rates, benefits, and job responsibilities. Ensure that the contract is mutually agreed upon and compliant with the Employment Act. Clarity in contracts helps avoid misunderstandings and disputes.

Best Practices for Managing Part-Time Employees


Effectively managing part-time employees involves clear communication, fair treatment, and appropriate training. Regular performance reviews and feedback can help part-time employees feel valued and motivated. Additionally, consider flexible scheduling and opportunities for skill development.

Understanding the regulations and best practices for hiring part-time employees is essential for HR professionals and employers in Singapore. By adhering to the Employment Act and maintaining fair practices, part-time employment can be a mutually beneficial arrangement. Stay informed and ensure compliance to create a positive and productive work environment.

By following this guide, HR professionals and employers can navigate the complexities of part-time employment in Singapore with confidence and clarity.

Sources

Track Working Hours and Run Payroll Seamlessly with Swingvy!


Feeling swamped with manual timesheets and payroll calculations? Swingvy's Time & Payroll module streamlines the process!  Say goodbye to errors and hello to efficiency. Track employee hours effortlessly, automate overtime calculations, and ensure seamless payroll processing. Swingvy keeps you compliant and your employees happy – all in one user-friendly platform. Free yourself from administrative burdens and focus on what matters most – running your business!

Learn More about Swingvy Leave management software

More Resources For You

Explore More Blogs

NEWSLETTER

Be the first to know.

Sign up to our newsletter to get insights and strategies delivered
straight to your inbox.

People Operations Platform
Full-suite HR software for payroll, leave management, time, claims and much more.