Providing proper accommodation is a legal requirement for employers hiring Work Permit holders in Singapore. Choosing the right option impacts cost, compliance, and worker welfare.
🏢 1. Purpose-Built Dormitories (PBD)
Regulated by the Building and Construction Authority and Ministry of Manpower.
💰 Cost (Updated 2026):
👉 $550 – $650 per bed/month
👍 Pros:
✔ Fully compliant & low risk
✔ Professionally managed
✔ Better living standards
👎 Cons:
❌ Limited availability
❌ Less flexibility
🏭 2. Factory-Converted Dormitories (FCD)
Industrial buildings converted into worker housing under MOM guidelines.
💰 Cost (Updated 2026):
👉 $500 – $600 per bed/month
👍 Pros:
✔ Closer to worksite
✔ Flexible capacity
✔ Slightly lower cost than PBD
👎 Cons:
❌ Compliance management needed
❌ Basic facilities
🏠 3. Shophouses / Private Residential Units
⚠️ Work Permit holders cannot stay in HDB flats.
💰 Cost:
👉 $600 – $1,000 per person/month
👍 Pros:
✔ More privacy
✔ Suitable for small teams
👎 Cons:
❌ Higher cost
❌ Strict rules
❌ Not scalable
📊 Updated Price Comparison (2026)
| Type | Cost | Compliance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PBD | $550 – $650 | ✅ High | Large companies |
| FCD | $500 – $600 | ⚠️ Medium | Mid-size companies |
| Private/Shophouse | $600 – $1,000 | ⚠️ Strict | Small teams |
⚠️ Key Note
Must follow rules by Ministry of Manpower
Plan early due to high demand & limited supply