Alternative Entry Pathway (AEP) and Foreign Worker Job Matching (FWJM) Programme
The AEP empowers employers to take greater ownership over the recruitment process. It lets firms bring in higher-quality workers with the skill sets their projects demand. These pilot programmes connect you directly with higher skilled workers, reducing training time and improving job-role matching for better productivity outcomes. Want to participate in AEP or FWJM pilots? Explore available programmes and application requirements.
Last updated 23 March 2026
The alternative pathways encourage employers to take ownership of the recruitment process and ensure workers are well-matched to specific job requirements and trade specialisations.
Alternative Entry Pathway (AEP)
What is it?
Traditionally, all new Construction Work Permit Holders (WPHs) must pass their Skills Evaluation Certificate (Knowledge) or SEC(K) before working in Singapore. This ensures they have basic trade knowledge and skills.
The Alternative Entry Pathway (AEP) pilot offers a different approach. BCA worked with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and industry partners to allow WPHs with relevant work experience, training and/or vocational certifications from overseas, to work in Singapore in lieu of passing the SEC(K) test.
Companies can also bring in better quality workers under a new General Competency Assessment (GCA) AEP route. This route aims to help firms identify and recruit higher aptitude workers who demonstrate English language competency. Industry feedback received has indicated that workers with stronger language skills tend to be faster learners, better able to manage sophisticated equipment and technologies and are more effective in communication and coordination. These capabilities will be increasingly valuable as the construction sector adopts advanced methods such as Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) and Prefabricated Mechanical Electrical & Plumbing Systems (Prefab MEP). Further details on how to apply for this AEP route will be announced soon.
Key benefits of AEP:
Faster recruitment process as compared to bringing in the workers via the conventional entry routes.
Flexibility to bring in experienced and highly skilled workers without the need to send them for SEC(K) test.
Less training required as workers are already skilled, hence faster deployment to site.
Will facilitate the firm to meet project timelines due to projected increased productivity from such skilled workers.
Lower employment and placement costs for workers
How does it work?
Several organisations are currently running AEP pilots. These include Contractors, Trade Associations & Chambers (TACs) and Non-profit organisations. Workers can still be recruited through these existing pilots.
To qualify for AEP, your proposal must show:
Employers actively select skilled workers - firms take ownership in identifying and recruiting skilled workers
Workers have construction experience - either in their home country or on international projects
Workers hold recognised qualifications - vocational certificates from government-recognised institutes or accredited organisations
Current AEP Pilots:
For more information on ongoing AEP pilots to help industry bring in better quality workers, you can visit the following links
For more information on ongoing AEP pilots to help industry bring in better quality workers, you can visit the following links
Entity involved | Link |
|---|---|
Asia Philanthropy Circle (APC) | |
Micro Builders Association Singapore (MBAS) | https://mbas.org.sg/programmes-resources/manpowering-office/ |
MCC Singapore (MCC) | Please contact: |
Foreign Worker Job Matching (FWJM) Programme
What is it?
The Singapore Contractors Association Ltd (SCAL) partnered with BCA to create the FWJM Programme. This pilot helps employers hire skilled foreign workers who want to work in Singapore's construction sector as work pass holders (WPHs).
The FWJM programme matches workers with relevant trade skills and experience to the requirements of employers, ensuring a suitable fit for both parties. This helps to ensure that selected workers are well suited to the job requirements, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction.
Key benefits
Skilled worker matching: Workers are matched based on relevant trade skills and experience.
Lower migration costs: The process is facilitated through approved manpower agencies collaborating with SCAL.
Transparent and fair process: Ensures equitable job matching for all parties involved
Smoother hiring process: Pre-screened candidates mean less time spent on recruitment.
SEC(K) certification at source: Workers are certified skilled before arrival.
For more information
Interested employers may contact the following entity to participate in the FWJM Programme
Entity involved | Link |
|---|---|
The Singapore Contractors Association Ltd (SCAL) |
Next steps for Built Environment Firms
These programmes represent BCA's commitment to supporting firms in accessing skilled foreign manpower whilst maintaining standards. Both the AEP and FWJM programmes offer pathways to bring in workers who are better matched to specific trade requirements and job needs.
Ready to participate?
For AEP pilot participation: Submit your proposal.
For FWJM Programme participation: Contact SCAL directly
For general enquiries about foreign manpower access: Visit our Foreign Manpower Access page.
Additional resources
Learn more about other foreign manpower programmes available to Built Environment firms:
For questions about any of these programmes, contact BCA through our feedback form or call our hotline.