SingaporeI want to resign but my employer won't release me.
You can resign at any time by giving the required notice period under your contract or the Employment Act — your employer cannot legally prevent you from leaving once notice is properly served.
What the Law Says
The Employment Act gives employees the clear right to resign by serving proper notice — no employer consent or release is needed.
Under Singapore law, an employee may resign at any time by giving written notice to their employer. The length of notice depends on how long you’ve worked for the employer — and it’s set by law if your employment contract doesn’t specify a different (but reasonable) period.
The Employment Act does not require your employer’s agreement or 'release' to end your employment. Once you serve valid notice, your employment will end on the date specified in that notice — unless you and your employer mutually agree to an earlier or later date.
If your employer refuses to accept your resignation or insists you need their permission, that position has no basis in law. Your resignation takes effect as soon as notice is properly given and meets the statutory or contractual requirements.
Statutory TextAn employee may terminate his contract of service by giving to his employer such notice in writing as is stipulated in the contract of service or, if there is no such stipulation, such notice in writing as is prescribed by this section.
— Employment Act 1968, s. 10 — Termination by employee
What to Do
Check your employment contract for any agreed notice period — it must be reasonable and not less than the statutory minimum.
Give written notice stating your last working day, ensuring it meets the required notice length based on your length of service.
Keep proof of delivery (e.g., email receipt, signed acknowledgment) — this protects you if your employer later disputes receipt.
Continue working during the notice period unless your employer agrees to waive it (e.g., garden leave or early release).
If your employer withholds your final salary or refuses to issue your official termination letter, contact the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for assistance.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.