The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the world, and Singapore is no exception. If you’re a foreign worker in Singapore, you may have questions about how the pandemic has affected your Foreign Worker Medical Insurance (FWMI) coverage. Here’s what you need to know.
Fact 1: FWMI Still Covers Work-Related Illnesses
If you contract COVID-19 as a result of your employment, FWMI will cover your medical expenses. This includes hospitalization, treatment, and medication, among other things. It’s important to note that this coverage only applies if you contract the virus as a result of your job.
Fact 2: FWMI Does Not Cover Non-Work-Related Illnesses
If you contract COVID-19 outside of work, FWMI will not cover your medical expenses. In this case, you would need to seek treatment from a private hospital or clinic and pay for the medical expenses out of pocket.
Fact 3: FWMI Does Not Cover Quarantine Expenses
If you are required to quarantine as a result of being a close contact of a COVID-19 case, FWMI will not cover your quarantine expenses. However, the Singapore government has introduced measures to help foreign workers cover these expenses.
Fact 4: FWMI Has Been Extended for Certain Workers
The Singapore government has announced that FWMI coverage has been extended for foreign workers in certain sectors, including construction, marine, and process. This extension covers the period from 1 December 2020 to 30 June 2021.
Fact 5: FWMI Renewal Requirements Have Changed
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has introduced temporary changes to FWMI renewal requirements. Employers are now required to submit a declaration form indicating that their foreign workers have been covered by FWMI for the past year. This measure is in place until 31 December 2021.
Fact 6: FWMI Is Still Mandatory
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, FWMI is still mandatory for all foreign workers in Singapore. Your employer is required to purchase the policy on your behalf and ensure that you have adequate coverage throughout your tenure.
Fact 7: MOM Has Introduced Measures to Help Foreign Workers
The MOM has introduced several measures to help foreign workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include providing free medical treatment for COVID-19, waiving the cost of COVID-19 tests, and providing financial assistance to help cover quarantine expenses.
Fact 8: Foreign Workers Can Access Medical Care Through Public Hospitals
If you are a foreign worker in Singapore, you can access medical care through public hospitals. These hospitals provide quality care at affordable prices, and you can use your FWMI policy to cover the cost of treatment.
We hope that these 8 facts shined some light into the recent development in Singapore with regards to FWMI.
