Temporary Relaxation of Licence Registration for Foreign Crane Operators
Access experienced crane and hoist operators to meet your project's lifting requirements through this specialised scheme. If you need skilled operators with prior crane operation experience in Singapore, this pathway can help bridge critical capability gaps in your operations. Need to employ foreign crane operators? Review the eligibility criteria and application process.
Last updated 28 January 2026
What is the Temporary Relaxation Scheme?
The Temporary Relaxation of Licence Registration for Foreign Crane Operators is a specialised manpower scheme designed for construction firms managing a foreign crane operator workforce. This temporary framework allows experienced foreign crane and hoist operators to work in Singapore under specific conditions. It is also designed to uphold safety and competency standards in the Built Environment (BE) sector.
All foreign workers seeking employment as crane and hoist operators under this scheme must possess prior crane operation experience in Singapore. They remain subject to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM)'s prevailing work pass requirements and crane operator registration requirements.
Under the scheme, employers who meet specific terms and conditions may employ foreign crane operators under construction work passes. Importantly, the applicant company is required to train and recruit new Local Crane Operators (LCO)¹ as part of their commitment to developing Singapore's local workforce.
¹ Refers to Singapore Citizens/Singapore PRs without prior crane operation experiences.
Who is eligible for the Scheme?
The scheme is available to construction firms that meet the following criteria:
1. Applicant Company Requirements
The applicant company must be intending to:
Employ a foreign crane operator with prior crane operation experience in Singapore on a new work pass, or
Renew an existing foreign crane operator's work pass.
2. Form C Submission Requirement
The company is required to first submit Form C (Application form for endorsement to employ foreign crane operators) for BCA's endorsement before proceeding with any applications.
3. Approved Form C Holders Only
Only companies with approved Form C may proceed to:
i. Training and Re-certification (if required)
Enrol foreign crane operators (whose licence has expired) for training/test in crane operations² at BCA Academy or P-One (S) Pte Ltd for re-certification purposes.
ii. Work Pass Application and Registration
Apply to MOM for work pass application for the worker to be listed as a Crane and Hoist Operator in the new work pass.
Complete registration with MOM OSHD for the foreign worker to be registered as a licensed crane operator.
² Refers to Crawler Crane Operation, Mobile Crane Operation and Tower Crane (Saddle Jib) Operation.
Important note for Cross-Training
Applicant companies of existing foreign crane operators who intend to cross-train an existing foreign crane operator holding a valid crane and hoist work pass in other crane types do not need to apply to BCA for approval.
Important reminders
Form C endorsement is mandatory before any work pass applications.
Training requirements apply only to operators with expired licences.
Cross-training for existing valid licence holders does not require BCA approval.
Terms and Conditions
Please read through the application Terms and Conditions carefully before submitting it for endorsement. An incomplete application form may lead to the rejection of your application.
All applicants must ensure they meet the specific requirements outlined in the scheme guidelines and maintain compliance with both BCA and MOM regulations throughout the employment period.
Need assistance?
The Applicant Company is strongly advised to seek clarifications from the appropriate authorities for specific queries:
Ministry of Manpower (MOM)
Phone: (65) 6438 5122
Website: www.mom.gov.sg/feedback
For queries relating to: Work pass application and registration to be a crane operator
Building and Construction Authority (BCA)
Website: www2.bca.gov.sg/feedback/
For queries relating to: Submission of the Form C