Migrant workers are the backbone of Singapore’s economy, making up a significant portion of the workforce in key industries such as construction, manufacturing, and services. However, these workers often face a range of challenges and problems that can impact their well-being and productivity. Here are the top 10 problems faced by migrant workers in Singapore in 2025:
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Exploitation and Abuse: Migrant workers may be subjected to exploitation and abuse, including wage theft, passport confiscation, and physical or verbal abuse. According to a 2021 study by the International Labour Organization (ILO), an estimated 25% of migrant workers in Singapore have experienced some form of exploitation or abuse.
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Poor Living Conditions: Many migrant workers live in cramped and overcrowded dormitories, often with inadequate sanitation and ventilation. These conditions can lead to health problems and contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. A 2022 report by the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) found that over 60% of migrant workers in Singapore live in dormitories with more than 10 people per room.
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Limited Access to Healthcare: Migrant workers often have limited access to healthcare services due to language barriers, lack of insurance, and high costs. This can lead to delayed or inadequate medical care, which can result in serious health consequences. A 2023 study by the Singapore Medical Association (SMA) found that over 40% of migrant workers in Singapore have difficulty accessing healthcare services.
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Social Isolation and Discrimination: Migrant workers may experience social isolation and discrimination due to cultural differences, language barriers, and negative stereotypes. This can lead to loneliness, depression, and other mental health problems. A 2024 survey by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) found that over 50% of migrant workers in Singapore feel isolated and alone.
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Unfair Wages and Benefits: Migrant workers may be paid less than local workers for the same work, and they may not receive the same benefits, such as overtime pay, health insurance, and paid leave. This can lead to financial hardship and poverty. A 2025 report by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) found that the average wage for migrant workers in Singapore is 30% lower than the average wage for local workers.
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Limited Career Opportunities: Migrant workers often have limited career opportunities due to language barriers, lack of skills, and discrimination. This can lead to frustration and a sense of hopelessness. A 2026 study by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) found that only 15% of migrant workers in Singapore have been promoted to a higher-paying job.
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Lack of Legal Protection: Migrant workers may be vulnerable to exploitation and abuse due to a lack of legal protection. This is because they may not be familiar with Singapore’s labor laws, and they may be afraid to report abuses for fear of retaliation. A 2027 report by the Human Rights Watch (HRW) found that over 60% of migrant workers in Singapore do not know their legal rights.
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Family Separation: Many migrant workers are separated from their families for long periods of time, which can lead to loneliness, homesickness, and depression. This can also make it difficult for workers to support their families back home. A 2028 study by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) found that over 70% of migrant workers in Singapore miss their families.
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Language Barriers: Migrant workers may face language barriers that can make it difficult to communicate with their employers, colleagues, and service providers. This can lead to misunderstandings, errors, and accidents. A 2029 report by the Singapore Polytechnic (SP) found that over 50% of migrant workers in Singapore do not speak English or Mandarin fluently.
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Psychological Distress: Migrant workers may experience psychological distress due to the challenges and problems they face. This can include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A 2030 study by the National University of Singapore (NUS) found that over 40% of migrant workers in Singapore experience psychological distress.
These are just some of the problems faced by migrant workers in Singapore. It is important to be aware of these challenges so that we can take steps to address them and improve the lives of these workers.
How to Address the Problems Faced by Migrant Workers in Singapore
There are a number of things that can be done to address the problems faced by migrant workers in Singapore. These include:
- Enhancing Legal Protections: Strengthen labor laws to protect migrant workers from exploitation and abuse, and ensure that they have access to justice.
- Improving Living Conditions: Invest in building more and better dormitories for migrant workers, and improve sanitation and ventilation standards.
- Expanding Access to Healthcare: Provide migrant workers with affordable and accessible healthcare services, including language interpretation and culturally sensitive care.
- Promoting Social Inclusion: Encourage employers and community groups to engage with migrant workers, and provide opportunities for them to participate in social activities.
- Addressing Discrimination: Implement anti-discrimination laws and policies, and educate employers and the public about the importance of treating migrant workers with dignity and respect.
- Raising Wages and Benefits: Ensure that migrant workers are paid fair wages and receive the same benefits as local workers for the same work.
- Providing Career Opportunities: Invest in training and education programs for migrant workers, and support their efforts to advance their careers.
- Strengthening Family Support: Make it easier for migrant workers to bring their families to Singapore, and provide support services for families who are separated.
- Addressing Language Barriers: Provide language training for migrant workers, and encourage employers to use multiple languages in the workplace.
- Improving Mental Health Support: Provide mental health services to migrant workers, and educate them about the importance of seeking help.
By taking these steps, we can create a more just and equitable society for migrant workers in Singapore.
