In a globally-competitive environment, Singapore has to stand out given our lack of natural resources and small economy. It\u2019s unsurprising that Singapore relies heavily on human capital, i.e. the talent of its workforce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the country seeking roles that are both vital for growth and on-the-ground functionality, it can be increasingly hard for local Singaporeans alone to fill these roles. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM), in partnership with the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and other agencies, has come up with the Shortage Occupation List (SOL)<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This defines a set of professions where local talent remains thin, yet where demand continues to rise. As a result, the SOL is a crucial tool in shaping workforce and immigration policy to ensure Singapore remains competitive on a global scale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s a quick breakdown of what you need to know about the SOL as well as a list of high-demand jobs that few locals can fill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Released in November 2024 and effective from 1 January 2025, the SOL applies to both new Employment Pass (EP) applications and renewals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Within this framework, candidates in these \u201chard-to-fill\u201d jobs can receive bonus points under the COMPASS<\/a> points system, potentially streamlining and speeding up their approval process. So, what goes into selecting these occupations? <\/p>\n\n\n\n First, there\u2019s a rigorous process behind the scenes. Authorities look at each role\u2019s strategic importance, evaluate the severity of labour gaps, and then consider how actively sectors are developing local pipelines to address these shortages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Of course, these aren\u2019t throwaway titles but are actually roles that matter deeply to Singapore\u2019s economic trajectory. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Therefore, the Government takes it seriously and seeks out the best talent out there if it\u2019s not available locally. Here\u2019s a quick look at 5 roles on the SOL, that few locals are able to fill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read Also: Hiring A Worker On Employment Pass (EP) In Singapore: Advertising Requirements; Qualifying Salary; COMPASS Points<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Singapore has big ambitions in agritech and sustainable food. To reduce its reliance on imports, the city-state is investing heavily in alternative proteins. But roles like food application scientists (who specialise in fermentation, extrusion technology, and recipe formulation) are difficult to fill locally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These experts drive innovation in plant-based and cultivated proteins, which are central to Singapore\u2019s \u201c30 by 30\u201d food security goal (producing 30% of nutritional needs locally by 2030). For a small country that has nearly no natural resources, food security is a big national security priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Healthcare is another area where shortages are persistent. Registered nurses remain on the SOL as hospitals, polyclinics, and old-aged care facilities face rising demand with an ageing population, while grappling with Singapore\u2019s notoriously low birth rate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While Singapore continues to expand its nursing programmes and scholarships, the sheer growth in healthcare needs means the country still has to rely on foreign nurses to fill critical gaps in care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read Also: Salary Guide To How Much You Can Earn As A Nurse In Public Healthcare<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In the technology sector, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is all the rage. So, it\u2019s not really that shocking to learn that AI engineers and data scientists stand out as some of the hardest roles to fill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These professionals are crucial in driving digital transformation, whether in financial services, healthcare, logistics, or government. While local universities here are ramping up AI talent pipelines, the reality is that demand far outpaces supply. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Given how quickly technologies like machine learning and generative AI are evolving, Singapore competes with global AI hubs like Silicon Valley, London, Paris, and Beijing for the same limited pool of talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat Is The SOL Framework?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
#1 Alternative Protein Food Scientists<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
#2 Registered Nurses<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
#3 AI Engineers And Data Scientists<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n