Hours of Work in Singapore

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Maximum Working Hours & Overtime Laws in Singapore

Standard hours

From 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Friday, with a 1-hour lunch break, for a total of 40 hours weekly.

Overtime 

The maximum hour work regulations in Singapore does not cover employees (who are not workmen doing manual labour) earning more than SGD 2,600 a month, managers and executives. Therefore, maximum hours must be agreed and stated on the employment contract.

For those covered and working five days a week, the maximum working hours are 9 hours a day (8 hours if working six days a week) or 44 hours a week, excluding lunch break.

Opt-out option

As there is no mandatory maximum hours nor compensation for the employees mentioned above, there is no requirement for an employee to opt-out.

Overtime compensation

Overtime compensation is only applicable to employees (who are not workmen doing manual labour) earning salaries below SGD 2,600 a month. Managers and executives do not have overtime compensation entitlements unless agreed on in the employment contract.

For those who qualify for overtime pay, the rate is 1.5 times the hourly rate if the employer requires them to work overtime. Total working hours, including overtime, should not exceed 12 hours a day.

Employees who work on their rest day at their employer's request are entitled to 2 days pay.

Break rights

The statutory break rights of 45 minutes daily for a meal and one rest day weekly (usually Sunday) is only applicable for those who make less than SGD 2,500 a month. For managers, executives and high earners, break rights are governed by what is agreed on the employment contract.

Employee Time Tracking Obligations in Singapore

There is no time tracking obligations for managers, executives or employees earning more than SGD 2,500 a month in Singapore.

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