Leave out personal traits the job doesn't need. TAFEP's guidelines say a job ad shouldn't ask for a certain age, gender, nationality, marital status or family situation, and the same goes for race and religion. Describe what the work involves instead.
You can ask for a language only if you say why the job needs it.
Common phrases to drop
| Instead of | Write |
|---|---|
| Nothing about age. If the work is physical, describe it: "Candidates are required to handle heavy equipment." | |
| "A fast-moving team" | |
| The actual requirement, such as "able to lift 25 kg" | |
| The real need, such as "able to do night shifts twice a week" | |
| Nothing about passes or nationality |
When a requirement is allowed
- Age, only where a law or regulation requires it. Say so in the ad.
- Gender, only where there's a genuine practical reason, stated clearly. For job titles that sound gendered, say that everyone may apply.
- Language, only with a job-related reason, written in the ad. For example, a language teacher who needs a qualification in that language.
- Saying a job suits older workers is fine.
Does this apply on LinkedIn and JobStreet too?
Yes. TAFEP's guidelines cover your hiring, wherever the ad goes. MyCareersFuture may flag wording when you post there; LinkedIn and JobStreet won't, so it's on you to check. For MyCareersFuture ads, also check the salary range rule.
From the end of 2027, the Workplace Fairness Act turns much of this into law.
Questions people ask
Can I state an age range in a Singapore job ad?
Only if a law or regulation requires it, and you should say so in the ad. Otherwise TAFEP says to avoid age as a requirement.
Can I ask for a language in a job ad?
Yes, if the job needs it and you state the job-related reason in the ad.
Can I say a job is suitable for older workers?
Yes. TAFEP says employers may state that a job is suitable for older workers.
Sources
Checked on 3 November 2026. Rules change, so follow the links for the latest wording before you act.