If you are an employer of foreign workers in Singapore, you should be aware of the changes to the minimum medical insurance (FWMI) required for all new and existing Work Permit holders (including migrant domestic workers) from 1 July 2023 onwards. These changes aim to better protect employers against large medical bills incurred by their workers, as well as to ensure that workers have adequate coverage for their medical needs.
What is FWMI?
FWMI is a medical insurance policy that provides coverage to foreign workers in Singapore for medical expenses related to their employment. This policy is obligatory, ensuring the protection of foreign workers and their employers in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses¹³.
As an employer, you must buy and maintain medical insurance to cover inpatient care and day surgery, including hospital bills for conditions that may not be work-related. The insurance cost cannot be passed on to your workers. You also need to submit the insurance details online before the Work Permit can be issued¹.
What are the changes to FWMI?
From 1 July 2023, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will enhance the minimum FWMI required for all new and existing Work Permit holders in two stages as shown in the table below¹.
* Co-payment of 75% by insurers (and 25% by employers) for claim amounts above the first $15,000.
* there are insurer who provide policies without Co-Payment as well
This means that from 1 July 2023 onwards, the required medical insurance coverage will increase from at least $15,000 per year for each Work Permit holder to at least $60,000 per year. However, employers will only need to pay 25% of the claim amounts above $15,000, while insurers will pay 75%. This co-payment element will help to balance the risk-sharing between employers and insurers, as well as to encourage prudent healthcare consumption by workers¹.
How can I buy or renew FWMI?
You can buy or renew FWMI from any insurer that offers policies that meet MOM's requirements. You can compare different plans and prices from various insurers online²⁴. You should also check with your insurer on how the changes to FWMI will affect your existing policy or renewal.
You need to submit medical insurance details online before you request to issue or renew a Work Permit, and when the details change. To update the information, log in to WP Online. You need to keep the following information up to date¹:
- Name of insurer
- Insurance policy number
- Insurance policy commencement date
- Insurance policy expiry date
Where can I find out more?
For more information on FWMI, you can visit MOM's website¹ or contact them at:
Alternatively, you can also contact me by clicking contact me below
I am a Senior Consultant and I have extensive experience in providing Corporate Insurance to employers of foreign workers in Singapore. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
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