Employees in Singapore embrace remote relocation

Over 50% of Singapore’s workforce believe they can relocate abroad and maintain employment with their current organisation, according to the People at Work 2023: A Global Workforce View report.

Notably, 88% of employees in the media and information industry expressed confidence in remote work, even though the sector is not among Singapore’s top three industries. For those believing in remote relocation, 36% noted their organisations have flexible working policies allowing them to work from any location, including outside their employment country. Additionally, almost a quarter of respondents claimed to know colleagues within their organisation who have taken advantage of this flexible working arrangement.

Singapore, a key business hub in South-East Asia, boasts a workforce accustomed to diverse locations and time zones, making remote relocation a natural adaptation. In fact, 29% of respondents foresee having the ability to work from anywhere globally in the next five years.

Yvonne Teo, Vice-President of HR, Asia-Pacific, ADP, said, “Globally, hybrid working arrangements are becoming the norm. In fact, we understand that in Singapore, close to seven in 10 organisations (69%) allow employees varying levels of flexibility when it comes to working from home and in the office. That fact that half of the employees in Singapore believe that they can relocate overseas while working for the same organisation suggests that flexibility is emerging as a highly sought-after workplace benefit.”

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However, administrative constraints exist. Teo urged employers to clarify policies on working from abroad, considering tax, compliance, security, and logistical issues.

Globally, the ADP report revealed that 48% of employees believed they could relocate overseas and continue with their current employers, citing flexible working policies, job requirements, and observed successful cases.