SINGAPORE, Dec. 4 -- Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will stop accepting new applications under the Performing Artiste Work Permit scheme from June 1, 2026, citing widespread abuse by syndicates.

The decision comes after recent enforcement operations uncovered non-operating entertainment outlets hiring foreign artistes, who were then sent to work elsewhere illegally, Singapore news outlet CNA reported.

MOM said the scheme "is no longer serving its original purpose" and will therefore be ceased.

Existing foreign artistes can stay until their passes expire or are cancelled.

Introduced in 2008, the scheme allowed bars, hotels and nightclubs to hire foreign performers on short-term permits of up to six months.

On October 23, a joi...