Singapore is sometimes forgotten by geography buffs who focus on Southeast Asia. The country consists of a city and basically nothing else – it is among the smallest nations in the entire world. However, it boasts well over 5 million residents, and is a major economic powerhouse in the region. Recently, international law firms are setting up Singapore offices to take advantage of the prosperous local economy.

The reason behind renewed interest in the country is simple. In 2008, the city issued Qualifying Foreign Law Practice (QFLP) licences to six different law firms, and is now opening the door to new applicants. The Ministry of Law will be reviewing applications as part of an initiative to make the nation a “vibrant legal hub,” according to Asia Legal Business. The window for consideration will last from July 1st to August 31st of 2012, and, unlike before, there will be no restriction on the number of firms that can apply.

“The number of licences to be awarded will depend on the quality of applications received for the second round of the QFLP exercise,” said a ministry spokesperson, according to the news source.

Theoretically, there could be dozens of new law firms in Singapore by the end of the year. This may be good news for those seeking international legal recruitment, as the city-state is already one of the most influential metro areas in Southeast Asia.

Our attorney headhunters at Kinney Recruiting specialize in finding lawyers for this area of the world, and have particular expertise in Singapore. We can help you gain access to positions at new law firms and even educate you about the international environment that is present in this economic center. Give us a call to discover what career options await you in Singapore.