Getting into Consulting in Singapore without a PR?

Question

I’m from the UK, currently doing an MBA in Singapore and trying to land a consulting job in the city.

Is it possible to get in without a PR? Heard many firms nowadays only accept citizens / PR.

Any views?

Answer 1

For consulting yes, it is possible. But it is a bit harder. You'll have to prove you are worth the extra-effort.

You have to weigth between lower chances of getting the job in consulting vs. how much do you want to be in Singapore.

Answer 2

Work authorization requirements for countries like Singapore are always evolving. And it has worsened due to COVID since Singapore has a protectionist stance towards its locals and to some extent towards existing expats.

Since the landscape is evolving, and if you want to enter Singapore straightaway then the best approach is to align with each company's HR/recruiters on what is their current stance on immigration and PR.

If you eventually want to reach Singapore in a few years, then you might want to join a firm in UK or anywhere else you have work authorization - and then try to get temp-transfers, cross-office staffing, and then eventually permanent transfers to Singapore.

Answer 3

I am from Singapore. It is possible but harder since there is a limit of # foreigners they can accept. However, typically big four and big three sponsor the Visa. The best way is to email the HR and attend the event

Answer 4

Hi there,

Possible but difficult for sure! Your best bet is to network extensively and not be too “picky”. Cast the net wide!

Your other option is to get a role in the UK then look to get transfered (or to a project there) after 2 odd years.

Good luck!

Answer 5

Hi,

This is a perennial question.

Technically, it is possible. Singapore is the most international office in SEA across all firms (for various obvious reasons).

However it is often difficult because of the suggested quotas the government places on non-resident working passes.

No harm trying - but in recent times the hiring for non-Singaporeans has decreased significantly, compared to a decade ago.

Answer 6

Yes it is possible but it is very difficult. The following scenarios are when you are most likely to get in

You are currently a student at a top University in Singapore or a target school where Singapore office recruits from
You are currently employed by MBB in another region and transferring into Singapore

Given that you meet the first criteria (assuming your MBA is a target MBA for the Singapore office) you have a reasonable chance of overcoming the sponsorship hurdles. It is likely and unfortunate that you will have to be in some ways a stronger candidate than someone who does not require sponsorship so do work extra hard to make it.

Best,

Udayan

Answer 7

Typically, in depth screening is completed by the ACs / Consultants at the office that you are looking to apply to on... (read entire answer)

Typically, in depth screening is completed by the ACs / Consultants at the office that you are looking to apply to once you have made it past the initial filters. HR will assist... (read entire answer)

Answer 8

Let me take a crack at this (in English) since no-one has addressed this. Top consultancies typically want the best... (read entire answer)

Let me take a crack at this (in English) since no-one has addressed this. Top consultancies typically want the best people regardless of their background. Yes, some roles are... (read entire answer)

Answer 9

This is a great, great question... that I suspect no-one can systematically answer :) Unless you have spent significa... (read entire answer)

This is a great, great question... that I suspect no-one can systematically answer :) Unless you have spent significant time working for or with all three, how can you truly com... (read entire answer)