Common Reasons Why Workers Fail Their Work Permit Medical Check-Ups

Securing a work permit in Singapore requires passing a mandatory medical examination. This ensures that workers are fit for employment and do not pose public health risks. However, some applicants fail their medical check-ups, leading to delays or even rejections of their work permits. Understanding the common reasons behind medical failures can help workers prepare and avoid unnecessary complications.

Infectious Diseases

One of the primary reasons workers fail their medical check up for work permit is the presence of infectious diseases. Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires screening for conditions such as tuberculosis (TB), HIV/AIDS, and syphilis. 

These diseases can pose serious health risks to the workforce and the general public, leading to work permit rejection if a worker tests positive. In some cases, individuals diagnosed with treatable conditions may be given the option to undergo treatment before reapplying.

Pre-Existing Chronic Conditions

Workers with uncontrolled chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, may fail their medical check-up if their condition is deemed severe. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to complications such as kidney disease and nerve damage, while hypertension increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Companies prefer to hire employees who are physically capable of performing job duties without excessive medical risks.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Substance abuse is another significant reason for failing the medical check-up. Workers are tested for drug use, and if traces of illegal substances are found in their system, their work permit application may be rejected. 

Alcohol dependency is also assessed, especially in industries where physical coordination and alertness are critical. Employers seek workers who can perform their tasks safely and reliably, making drug or alcohol abuse a major red flag.

Poor Vision and Hearing Issues

For roles that require sharp eyesight and good hearing, such as construction and driving jobs, failing a vision or hearing test can lead to medical check-up failure. Severe visual impairment or hearing loss can affect a worker’s ability to perform tasks safely. In some cases, corrective measures like glasses or hearing aids may be allowed, but extreme cases may result in work permit rejection.

Obesity and Related Complications

While obesity alone may not cause a worker to fail a medical check-up, it often leads to complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Excessive weight can make physically demanding jobs more challenging, increasing the risk of workplace injuries. Medical examiners may assess the severity of obesity-related health conditions before determining if a worker is fit for employment.

Lung and Respiratory Diseases

Workers with respiratory diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or severe asthma may not pass their medical check up for work permit, especially if their condition affects their ability to perform physical labor. 

Those exposed to dust, fumes, and chemicals in their workplace need strong lung function to ensure workplace safety. In severe cases, applicants with respiratory conditions may be disqualified from obtaining a work permit.

Hepatitis B and Other Liver Conditions

Hepatitis B is a common reason for medical check-up for work permit failures, especially for workers in healthcare, food handling, and caregiving industries. Since the virus is contagious and can spread through bodily fluids, employers are cautious about hiring workers who may pose a transmission risk. Additionally, other liver conditions like cirrhosis can indicate poor health, making workers ineligible for certain jobs.

Mental Health Concerns

Mental health disorders such as severe depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders may also result in medical check-up failures. While Singapore promotes mental health awareness, some conditions may impact a worker’s ability to function in a high-stress work environment. Employers need assurance that workers can handle job-related pressures without experiencing mental breakdowns or requiring frequent medical leave.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Certain STIs, especially those that are chronic and contagious, can result in work permit rejection. Singaporean authorities prioritize public health, and individuals with untreated syphilis or HIV/AIDS may not pass their medical check-up. However, advancements in medical treatments have made it possible for some workers with managed conditions to still be eligible for employment, depending on their health status.

How to Improve Your Chances of Passing

To increase the likelihood of passing the medical check-up, workers should prioritise their health before applying for a work permit. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing chronic conditions through proper medication can help ensure a positive outcome. Regular health screenings can also identify potential health issues early, allowing workers to seek treatment before their examination.

Conclusion

Failing a medical check-up can be stressful and impact employment opportunities. Understanding the common reasons for failure—such as infectious diseases, chronic conditions, substance abuse, and respiratory issues—can help workers take proactive steps to improve their health. By addressing medical concerns early, workers can increase their chances of successfully securing a work permit and beginning their employment in Singapore.