Company is demanding 2 Months pay for changing the job within 1 years

[Mighty Eagle]

Dear All,

I am new to Singapore , I need your advise and suggestion on the below query.

I have been working in Singapore in EP for past 8 Months. Now i have got another good offer than the current offer. I am thinking to change my job by serving 1 months notice with current company, but my employer has stated in the offer letter that if i leave the company before 1 years i need to pay them 2 months of my salary as compensation (For hiring, training, and other expenses).

There is no way that i need to pay the current employee 2 months salary and leave ? Some say that is not legal and company cant force me to stay or ask for compensation.

Please advise.

[Addadude]

1. If the 2 month's salary as compensation for costs of hiring and training you is stated in your letter of employment and you agreed to it, then you are stuck with it. Unless you are prepared (and have deep enough pockets) to hire a lawyer and fight it - and there is no guarantee that yiu will succeed.

2. You don't sound like a very reliable employee. 8 months into your job and you already want to quit? This may affect your chances of getting a new EP.

3. Your current EP is no guarantee that any new EP you apply for will be granted.

[PNGMK]

Have your contract reviewed by a solicitor. Sometimes the boiler plate they use has loop holes or is poorly written and unenforceable.

[sundaymorningstaple]

If you are required to give two months notice or 2 months salary in lieu of notice in your contract it should also state that if they want to release you without "grounds" they will also have to give you two months notice or salary in lieu of Notice. So in order to avoid having to pay them 2 months salary, you will need to give them 2 months notice or yes they can take you to court and if it is worded as such you will lose.