Managing payroll in Singapore involves more than just issuing paychecks - it’s about ensuring compliance, maintaining accuracy, and adapting to regulatory changes. In this article, we sieve out 5 key criteria to consider when managing payroll in Singapore. By focusing on these five areas, you’ll be well-equipped to streamline your payroll processes and avoid costly mistakes.
People are often the most important asset of a business and they are becoming more and more mobile, leading to more reporting complexities.
Our Employer Solutions team works with a range of dynamic businesses to ensure that they are and remain compliant in Singapore as well as globally as a result of their employees' movements. This ranges from running local payroll, to implementing a global equity reward scheme to advising you on the structure of your employees’ cross-border travel.
How we help
Global Mobility Services for the organisation -
- Strategic assignment planning including assignment policy development, including equalisation, protection and ‘host plus’
- Budgeting and cost management
- Global tax compliance and advisory services for your people
Global Mobility Services for your people -
- Arrival and departure tax briefings and compliance
- Coordinated global tax preparation and global consulting services including assessments, audits and notices
- Tax equalisation and protection reconciliation
Equity schemes and long-term incentive plans (LTIP) -
- Guiding you through different LTIPs such as Stock Options, Restricted Shares, Restricted Stock Units, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, phantom plans (such as Stock Appreciation Rights)
- Assistance with the implementation of LTIPs
- Tax and Social Security compliance and advisory
- Assisting with tax aspects of the documentation
Employment tax services - guiding you on your tax, Central Provident Fund contributions and other compliance obligations for your people, consultants and directors
Read more
CASE STUDY
A compliant global mobility programme that engaged employees
A British-based company was able to move to a tax equalised programme and manage their tax exposure so that they would be compliant with global rules.
case study
A coordinated roll-out for an Employee Stock Purchase Plan
With detailed evaluation and consideration for both employer and employees, the firm successfully introduced an Employee Stock Purchase Plan for Singapore employees.
Why Grant Thornton
Drawing on the knowledge and insights of our Singapore team as well as our global network of professionals, we will work with you to deliver insightful personalised solutions that deliver tax efficiencies, ensure global compliance and manage costs.
1.
Best of local and global insights
Bringing finely tuned local knowledge together with global expertise from over 130 countries in the Grant Thornton network, we help you see the bigger picture so that you can make your next move with confidence.
2.
Solutions that address your needs
We know every business is different. Our team delivers tailored solutions so that you get what’s right for your business, not just a “cut and paste” solution.
3.
An experienced team
Our team has experience advising multinational clients across different industries and can provide solutions that make sense for your business.
Career
Explore a career with our employer solutions team
Our people are at the core of our business. From autonomy at work to dedicated mentorship, our people are empowered to decide the direction and pace of their career development.
Related insights
More insights
Payroll
Key considerations when managing payroll in Singapore
Global mobility solutions
Setting up an equity compensation plan – Legal and Tax Considerations
Equity-based incentive plans have gained significant traction in Singapore as a tool to attract, retain and reward employees. These plans allow employees to share in the company’s success, aligning their interests with shareholders while also deferring part of the company’s expenses. SGX-listed (i.e. public) companies have long used these structures, and private companies, including startups, now increasingly adopt them for their flexibility and impact on long-term motivation of employees.
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11 min read
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29 Jul 2025
Global mobility solutions
Relocating to Singapore – Legal and Tax Considerations
Singapore is a top destination for affluent and highly skilled expatriates due to its strong economy, low taxes (progressive income tax capped at 24%), political stability, and high quality of life. Due to its thriving economy and strategic business positioning, it has become increasingly attractive for expatriates and their families. However, navigating Singapore Law regarding employment passes and laws and permanent residency may be unfamiliar territory for expatriates. Hence, this article offers insight on the key legal and tax considerations for expatriates when moving to Singapore.
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11 min read
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15 May 2025
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