Singapore is known for safety, order and very low crime rates. What many expatriates do not realise, however, is that the same strict enforcement that keeps Singapore safe also means that behaviour treated lightly elsewhere can be a criminal offence here.
We have acted for expatriates from many countries who never imagined finding themselves under police investigation, not because they set out to break the law, but because they misjudged how seriously Singapore treats certain conduct.
This guide explains the common offences that involve expatriates, what happens when you are investigated or charged, and the impact a criminal matter may have on your work pass and ability to remain in Singapore.
Common offences
Outrage of Modesty (Molest)
Under Singapore law, outrage of modesty is treated very seriously. What may be dismissed elsewhere as inappropriate touching is a criminal offence that can lead to imprisonment here.
Where a victim is touched on a body part other than the private parts and no further aggravating factors are present, there is a possibility of resolving the matter through compensation to the victim. However, this must go through the proper legal means.
In more serious cases involving private parts or multiple victims, the outcome changes significantly, and there a possibility of jail time and caning.
Driving Offences
For expatriates living in Singapore, understanding the country’s approach to road safety is essential. Traffic offences are not treated lightly, and penalties can be severe compared to other jurisdictions. In Singapore, there is an emphasis on public safety and deterrence. This means that certain traffic infractions can carry significant consequences.
One common offence is drink driving. This is treated seriously. If harm is caused to a person or property, offenders can expect jail time and a lengthy disqualification period. Even in cases where no harm occurs, penalties include fines and disqualification. Repeat offenders face harsher sentences, and the courts take a strict stance to deter such dangerous behaviour. For expatriates, this means that even casual social drinking followed by driving can have severe consequences.
Another common offence is speeding. Enforcement is strict in Singapore, with speed cameras and patrols across the island. Penalties include fines and demerit points. Excessive speeding can escalate into a dangerous driving charge, carrying heavier consequences which may lead to a jail term. Expatriates accustomed to more lenient enforcement elsewhere should adjust their driving habits accordingly.
Read more: Singapore to Remove Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Some Dangerous Driving Offences
Drunk Behaviour Escalating into Assault
Alcohol is frequently the starting point of trouble for expatriates in Singapore. What begins as a night of social drinking can quickly spiral into disorderly conduct, aggressive behaviour, or even physical violence. The law takes a strict view on alcohol-fuelled offences, particularly when they escalate into assault. In such cases, intoxication is not considered a defence. Rather, it is often treated as an aggravating factor that demonstrates a lack of self-control and disregard for public order.
Assault charges can arise from situations that expatriates may underestimate, such as heated arguments in bars, confrontations with taxi drivers, or disputes with strangers in public places. Even minor physical contact can result in criminal liability. Penalties for such offences include fines, imprisonment and caning. The courts will typically impose harsher sentences where injuries are caused.
Read more: Misbehaving in Public in Singapore — Offences, Penalties & What You Should Know
Drug Offences
Singapore’s zero-tolerance stance on drugs is well known, but expatriates are still caught out by assumptions based on laws from their home countries. In Singapore, the mere possession of controlled substances is treated as a serious offence, and penalties are among the harshest in the world.
For expatriates, the implications go far beyond the criminal penalties. A conviction for drug use or possession can lead to deportation, loss of employment, and permanent damage to one’s professional and personal reputation. What may be considered a minor or socially acceptable act elsewhere is treated in Singapore as a major criminal offence with life-altering consequences.
Read more: Misuse of Drugs Act Singapore
White-Collar and Financial Crimes
Some of the most serious cases involving expatriates arise not from nightlife or road incidents, but from the workplace.
- Cheating — Making false representations or deceiving others for financial gain can result in criminal charges even where the sums involved are not large.
- Money Laundering — Receiving, transferring, or dealing with funds that may be linked to criminal activity can amount to an offence, particularly where there were warning signs that should not have been ignored.
- Criminal Breach of Trust — Misusing money, property or assets entrusted to you in the course of employment or business is treated as a serious offence under Singapore law.
- Corruption and Bribery — Offering, receiving, or facilitating improper payments in business dealings can lead to prosecution, regardless of whether such practices are common in other countries.
These offences are treated seriously by the courts and often carry custodial sentences, substantial fines, and consequences to the work passes of expatriates working in Singapore.
Read more: Crime and Punishment in Singapore : The Expatriate Perspective
What Happens When You Are Investigated or Charged?
When an expatriate is investigated or charged in Singapore, the process can be far more intrusive and consequential than they might expect. A police investigation may involve formal interviews, the seizure of electronic devices or documents, and arrest. Bail conditions can include strict reporting requirements or restrictions on travel, which may disrupt both professional and personal life.
It is important to understand that what you say or do during the investigation stage may directly affect the outcome of your case. Early legal advice is therefore critical.
How a Criminal Case Affects an Expatriate’s Status in Singapore
A criminal investigation or conviction in Singapore does not only involve the courts. It can directly affect an expatriate’s right to remain and work in the country.
Beyond the penalties imposed by the courts, a conviction may lead to the termination of employment, cancellation of work passes, and difficulties in renewing work passes. In some cases, your status as a permanent resident may also be revoked.
If you are investigated or charged, it can significantly disrupt your life and work schedule because you may be required to attend interviews at the police station.
You could also be detained after an arrest, during which time you may not be permitted to contact a lawyer or your family.
If bail is granted, your passport may need to be surrendered, and you will have to seek permission from the police or the court before you can travel.
A conviction may result in the termination of employment, the cancellation of work passes, and difficulties in renewing work passes in Singapore.
Whether you breach your employment contract will depend on the specific terms in your contract.
Unless your employment contract requires it, there is typically no obligation to inform your employer during an investigation.
It is good practice to engage a criminal lawyer as soon as possible.
A criminal defence lawyer can help explain the charges and investigation process, assess available defences, discuss legal options, and assist with representations to limit the impact of the matter.
Speak to a Criminal Defence Lawyer Early
If you are under investigation or have been charged, early advice can protect your legal position.
Our criminal defence team at GJC Law regularly acts for expatriates facing charges in Singapore and understands both the legal and practical consequences involved.
Taking advice early can make a critical difference to the outcome of your case and your ability to remain in Singapore.
