Why did Singapore ban foreign freelancers in creative services?

Singapore aims to protect local jobs and ensure compliance with the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. By banning foreign freelancers, the country seeks to foster a competitive environment for local talent.

What creative services are affected by this ban?

The ban specifically targets services like photography, videography, and make-up artistry. These fields have seen significant foreign freelance involvement, which the regulation aims to curb.

How will this ban impact Singapore's creative industry?

This regulation could lead to increased job opportunities for local professionals. It encourages businesses to invest in and hire local talent, potentially driving growth and innovation within the industry.

Global Market Insights

Singapore Bans Foreign Freelancers in Creative Services to Protect Locals

ByHuzaifa Zahoor September 15, 2025

Singapore has taken a firm stand to protect its local creative industry. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the Visual, Audio, Creative Content Professionals Association (Vicpa) have jointly announced the banning of foreign freelancers in creative services. Fields like photography, videography, and make-up artistry are directly impacted by this regulation. The goal is to safeguard local jobs and ensure strict adherence to the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act. This strategic move marks a significant shift in Singapore’s approach to balancing local employment with foreign involvement. The creative industry in Singapore, worth billions annually, is a critical sector. However, the influx of foreign freelancers has led to heightened competition, often at the expense of local professionals. With the new regulations in place, MOM aims to curb this trend and foster a more sustainable growth environment for local talents. This adjustment is expected to realign job opportunities towards Singaporeans, nurturing a more robust local creative economy.