Direct R1 Pathway
Learn how to upgrade Malaysian and NAS construction workers to Higher Skilled R1 status through BCA’s Direct R1 Pathway using SEC(K), SPM, or ALP qualifications.
Last updated 6 March 2026
What is the Direct R1 Pathway?
The Direct R1 Pathway allows quality workers, who may not have acquired the necessary years of local construction experience but are highly skilled, to upgrade to "Higher Skilled" R1 construction workers. This scheme provides employers with greater flexibility in deploying higher skilled workers on-site, reducing downtime and improving productivity across construction projects.
The pathway ensures that skilled construction workers can be recognised and upgraded based on their competency rather than just years of experience, supporting Singapore's productivity goals in the built environment sector.
Who is eligible for the Direct R1 Pathway?
Workers must meet the following criteria to qualify for the standard Direct R1 Pathway:
Minimum fixed monthly salary of $1,600 per month
Passed the SEC(K) test taken at higher skill level
Enhanced Direct R1 Upgrading Pathway for Malaysian and North Asian Source (NAS) construction work permit holders
Since 1 January 2022, the Direct R1 pathway has been enhanced specifically for Malaysian and North Asian Source (NAS) Construction Work Permit Holders (WPHs). This enhancement provides additional pathways for skilled workers from these regions to meet the skills assessment requirements.
Under the enhanced pathway, Malaysian and NAS WPHs can meet the skills assessment requirement through any one of the following options:
Pass the SEC(K) certificate (without the requirement for passing at a higher-skill level)
Pass the Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) end-of-course validation
Hold an SPM qualification (for Malaysians only)
Workers using the enhanced pathway must still earn a minimum fixed salary of $1,600 per month.
Automatic upgrades for eligible workers
Existing R2 Malaysian and NAS construction WPHs who were eligible to upgrade to R1 under the enhanced Direct R1 upgrading pathway were automatically upgraded on 1 January 2022. Employers can login to MOM's online levy portal "Check and Pay Foreign Worker Levy" to check their latest levy bill and confirm the R1 status for their Malaysian and NAS Construction WPHs.
Comparison of Direct R1 Pathways
Table of pathways
Table caption
Criteria | Non-Traditional Source (NTS) and People's Republic of China (PRC) | [Enhanced] For Malaysian and NAS |
|---|---|---|
Minimum Construction Experience in Singapore | N/A | N/A |
Skills Assessment | Pass the SEC(K) at higher-skill level | Any one of the following:
|
Minimum Fixed Salary | $1,600 | $1,600 |
How to apply for Direct R1 Pathway
Submit an application at one of the following locations for SEC(K) assessment at higher skill level:
Overseas Testing Centre for SEC(K) assessment
For Malaysian and NAS workers using the enhanced pathway, applications can be made through the same channels for the relevant qualification pathway.
Continuing Education and Training (CET) requirements
Direct R1 eligibility status is valid for 2 years. To maintain their upgraded status, workers must fulfil specific continuing education requirements:
Attend CET courses in their registered SEC(K) trade category.
CET is a half-day course covering the latest codes and regulations, good practices, and demonstration of new methods, materials, tools and equipment relevant to the specific construction trades.
CET courses are available at BCA Academy and appointed BCA Approved Training and Testing Centres (ATTCs).
Online registration and renewal
The Construction Workforce Registration System (CWRS) is BCA's online portal for:
CoreTrade registration
Multi-skilling registration
Direct R1 eligibility renewal
Workers and employers can access CWRS to manage registrations and renewals efficiently online.
Related workforce development pathways
The Direct R1 Pathway is one of four pathways available for upgrading "Basic Skilled" R2 Work Permit Holders to "Higher Skilled" R1 workers:
Table of pathways
Pathway | Overview | Minimum Years of Experience | Skills or Certification Required | Minimum Fixed Monthly Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Registration scheme for experienced workers in the various key construction trades, who have passed the stipulated skill assessments by BCA. | 4 years | Yes | No minimum | |
Allows the upgrading of WPHs who have at least 4 to 6 years of construction experience in Singapore, and are certified in 2 or more trade skills. | 4 to 6 years | Yes | No minimum | |
Allows the upgrading of workers who pass the SEC(K) at Direct R1 higher skills standards, and draw a fixed monthly salary of $1,600 or more. | No minimum | Yes | $1,600 | |
Allows the upgrading of workers who have at least 6 years' construction experience in Singapore, and earn a fixed monthly salary of $1,600 or more. | 6 years | No | $1,600 |
Need more information?
For additional guidance on the Direct R1 Pathway and application processes:
Visit BCA Approved Training and Testing Centres for assessment and training services
Review Workers Upgrading Pathways for comprehensive upgrading options
Contact BCA through our feedback form for specific enquiries