If you’ve been wondering “what is the minimun age to work in Singapore”, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a teen eager to earn your first paycheck, a parent making sure your kid’s job is safe, or an employer trying to do things right, it’s good to know the rules.
The quick answer? You generally need to be at least 13 years old to start working in Singapore. But there are a few details you should know before you rush to fill out that job application.
The Basics: How Young is Too Young?
Here’s the general breakdown:
- Under 13 years old → No work allowed.
- 13 to under 15 years old → You can do light work in safe, non-industrial places.
- 15 to under 16 years old → You can take on more types of jobs, but there are still limits.
What Exactly is “Light Work”?
If you’re between 13 and 15, you can’t just take any job. “Light work” means tasks that are safe, not physically exhausting, and don’t involve dangerous tools or chemicals. Think:
- Serving food or drinks, cafe helper
- Helping in a retail shop
- Doing simple office admin tasks
- Event helper
- Pet shop assistant
- Library helper
What Jobs Can a 14 Year Old Get in Singapore?
Here are some realistic, teen-friendly options you might find around Singapore:
1. Retail Assistant
Think folding clothes at a boutique, restocking shelves in a bookstore, or helping customers find what they need.
Why it’s great: You’ll learn customer service skills and get used to handling money.
Example: Helping out at a stationery shop after school.
2. Café or F&B Helper
This could mean clearing tables, serving drinks, or taking simple orders at a bubble tea shop or bakery.
Why it’s great: Flexible hours and free snacks (sometimes!).
Example: Part-time service crew at a dessert café on weekends.
3. Event Crew
Handing out flyers, helping with ticket collection, or guiding guests at small events.
Why it’s great: Short-term gigs that don’t tie you down.
Example: Assisting at a school holiday fair or charity run.
4. Pet Shop Assistant
Feeding animals, cleaning cages, or greeting customers.
Why it’s great: Perfect if you love animals and want hands-on experience.
Example: Helping at a neighbourhood pet store after school.
5. Library Helper
Shelving books, helping with kids’ reading activities, or manning the returns counter.
Why it’s great: Quiet environment and no heavy lifting.
Example: Part-time work at a community library.
6. Family Business Helper
If your family owns a small shop or café, you might be able to help out — as long as the work is safe.
Why it’s great: Flexible hours and you’re working with people you know.
Example: Helping your parents at their bakery during school holidays.
Jobs for 15–16 Year Olds
Once you hit 15, you can take on slightly more demanding roles — though safety rules still apply. Examples include:
- Kitchen assistant: Prepping vegetables, washing dishes, or plating food (but no handling dangerous machinery).
- Warehouse packer: Packing small, lightweight items for delivery.
- Theme park crew: Operating safe rides for children or helping with crowd control.
- Hotel runner: Delivering items to guests or helping with room setup for events
Rules You Still Have to Follow
Even if you’re old enough to work, there are still some restrictions:
- No late-night shifts: If you’re under 16, you can’t work between 11pm and 6am.
- Working hours:
- 13–15 years old (still in school) → Max 6 hours a day.
- 15–16 years old (still in school) → Max 7 hours a day.
- Breaks: You must get at least a 30-minute break after a few hours of work.
Why These Rules Exist
It’s not about being strict for the sake of it. These rules are there to protect young people from unsafe work and to make sure school stays the priority. Employers who ignore them can get into serious trouble.
Can 13 Years Old Work in Singapore?
In Singapore, the minimum legal working age is 13. That means once you hit your 13th birthday, you’re allowed to take on certain types of jobs — but only if they’re considered safe and suitable for your age.
The law calls this light work, and it’s designed so you can earn a bit of money without risking your health, safety, or studies.
What Kind of Jobs Can a 13-Year-Old Do?
At 13, you’re limited to non-industrial, light-duty jobs. That means no construction sites, no factory work, and nothing involving dangerous tools or chemicals. Instead, think of roles like:
- Retail helper — folding clothes, restocking shelves, or helping customers in a small shop.
- Café assistant — clearing tables, serving drinks, or taking simple orders.
- Event helper — handing out flyers, guiding guests, or helping with ticket collection.
- Library helper — shelving books or assisting with children’s reading activities.
- Family business helper — working in a shop or café owned by your family (still with safety rules in place).
Quick FAQ
Q: Can a 14-year-old work in a café kitchen?
A: Yes, if it’s safe and doesn’t involve dangerous equipment.
Q: Can a 15-year-old work full-time?
A: If you’re still in school, no — your hours are limited. If you’ve left school, you can work more, but some restrictions still apply until you’re 16.
Q: Do I need special permission to work under 16?
A: Not exactly, but your employer must follow the rules for young workers.
Final Thoughts
So, what is the minimun age to work in Singapore? It’s 13 — but the type of work, hours, and conditions depend on your exact age and whether you’re still in school. If you’re a teen, look for something safe and flexible. If you’re an employer, stick to the rules — it’s better for everyone.