Before the Permit Expires: A 2026 Timeline for a Successful Work Permit Renewal in Singapore

Learn about the optimal timeline, step-by-step process, required documents, 2026 policy updates, risks of late WP renewal applications, and frequently asked questions for seamless Singapore work permit renewal and compliance.

Key Takeaways for Singapore Work Permit Renewal:

• Start your Singapore Work Permit renewal 3-6 months before expiry in 2026 to ensure smooth processing, avoid delays, and prevent job disruptions.

• Follow the step-by-step application process timeline: prepare at month 6, gather documents at months 4-5, submit via WP Online at month 3 for best results.

• Avoid risks of expiry during processing—cannot legally work without a valid Work Permit; overstaying incurs heavy penalties from Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

Before the Permit Expires: A 2026 Timeline for a Successful Work Permit Renewal in Singapore

In Singapore, mastering the Work Permit renewal timeline for 2026 is crucial for employers and foreign workers in sectors like Construction sector, Manufacturing sector, Services sector, Marine sector, and Process sector to avoid disruptions in employment. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) recommends starting the Work Permit renewal process 3-6 months before the Work Permit expiry date via WP Online, ensuring compliance with quota, Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC), levy, Security Bond, medical insurance, and eligibility criteria such as minimum salary, minimum age, nationality from approved source countries, and biometrics screening. This proactive approach minimises risks if the Work Permit expires during processing, prevents penalties for overstaying, and upholds responsibilities like housing and Primary Care Plan (PCP), securing seamless transitions to a new Work Permit card without the foreign worker needing to leave Singapore.

Employers must monitor the Work Permit renewal notice in WP Online to track the Work Permit expiry for each foreign worker. Starting early allows time to gather documents like the renewal letter, proof of medical insurance, and Security Bond details. Compliance with sector-specific rules, such as those in the construction sector or manufacturing sector, ensures smooth approvals.

Trends in 2026 highlight stricter enforcement of Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) and quota limits, particularly in high-demand sectors like Marine sector and Process sector. Employers should verify the foreign worker's eligibility, including nationality from approved source countries and biometrics screening status. Addressing any issues promptly avoids delays in the work permit renewal process.

Responsibilities extend to maintaining valid housing and medical insurance throughout the Work Permit renewal period. If unable to renew due to non-compliance, the foreign worker may need to leave Singapore. Use WP Online for all applications to streamline the process for renewing work permits.

6 Months Before Expiry: Initial Planning and Eligibility Check

Begin the timeline six months before the Work Permit expiry by reviewing eligibility via WP Online. Confirm the foreign worker meets Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements like minimum age, minimum salary thresholds, and nationality from approved source countries. This step identifies potential gaps early, such as outdated biometrics screening or lapsed medical insurance.

Employers in sectors like Construction sector or Services sector should assess quota availability under DRC rules. Renew the security bond if expiring soon, and ensure levy payments are current. Proactive checks prevent last-minute hurdles in the work permit renewal process.

Gather initial documents, including employment contracts and proof of housing compliance. Trends show MOM prioritising digital submissions through WP Online for faster processing. Plan for any training or medical exams needed to renew the work permit seamlessly.

3-4 Months Before Expiry: Submit Renewal Application

Three to four months prior, log into WP Online to submit the Work Permit renewal application. Include details on the foreign worker's job role, sector compliance, and updated medical insurance. MOM processes these efficiently if all eligibility criteria align with 2026 guidelines.

Verify Security Bond and levy obligations specific to sectors like Manufacturing sector or Marine sector. Address any renewal notice prompts immediately to avoid rejection. Employers bear primary responsibility for accurate submissions to secure the new work permit.

If the application faces issues, such as quota exceedance, explore alternatives like S Pass for eligible workers. This phase allows time for appeals or corrections without disrupting employment. Compliance here upholds all foreign worker rights and responsibilities.

1-2 Months Before Expiry: Follow-Up and Preparations

One to two months before Work Permit expiry, track application status in WP Online for the Work Permit renewal notice. Prepare the foreign worker for biometrics screening if required, and confirm medical insurance coverage. Employers should ready logistics for the new work permit card issuance.

In high-volume sectors like Process sector or Services sector, anticipate processing times by following up promptly. Renew housing arrangements to meet MOM standards, avoiding penalties. This stage ensures the work permit is renewed without the worker needing to leave Singapore.

Experts recommend double-checking documents like the renewal letter against current trends in Ministry of Manpower (MOM) policies. Address any online foreign workers address service updates for accuracy. Seamless preparation leads to uninterrupted employment passes.

What Is the Optimal Timeline for Singapore Work Permit Renewal in 2026?

The optimal timeline for Singapore Work Permit renewal in 2026 advises employers to initiate the application process 3-6 months before the Work Permit expiry via WP Online on the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal, accommodating foreign workers in key sectors while adhering to quota, levy, and eligibility requirements.

This 3-6 month window ensures smooth permit renewals for sectors like construction, manufacturing, and services. Employers can prepare documents, verify compliance with security bond obligations, and address any issues with medical insurance or housing. Foreign workers avoid disruptions to their employment in Singapore.

Using WP Online streamlines the Work Permit renewal process. Submit renewal notices early to check nationality restrictions, minimum age, and approved source countries. This approach aligns with MOM guidelines for renewing work permits effectively.

A new Work Permit issued within this timeline minimises risks of Work Permit expiry complications. Employers maintain workforce stability, while workers secure their work pass without needing to leave Singapore. For details on steps, see Renewal Steps and Common Pitfalls.

Why Start 3-6 Months Before Expiry?

Starting the Work Permit renewal 3-6 months before expiry allows ample time for document verification, medical screening, biometrics screening, and approvals under Ministry of Manpower (MOM) guidelines, reducing risks if the Work Permit expires mid-process.

Processing delays often arise from quota checks and DRC compliance in high-demand sectors.

Employers face challenges if unable to renew due to levy exceedances or eligibility mismatches. Early action prevents foreign workers from having to leave Singapore abruptly.

Benefits include thorough preparation for biometrics screening and medical insurance updates. MOM requires precise documentation, such as renewal letters and proof of salary compliance. This timeline safeguards against work permit expiry interrupting jobs in marine or logistics.

• Verify foreign worker eligibility against approved source countries.

• Complete medical examinations to meet health requirements.

• Update details via WP Online for seamless Work Permit card issuance.

Step-by-Step Renewal Process Starting 3-6 Months Early

The step-by-step Work Permit renewal process in Singapore, starting 3-6 months early via WP Online, involves employers fulfilling Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requirements for foreign workers across Construction sector, Manufacturing sector, Services sector, Marine sector, and Process sector, including Security Bond renewal, medical insurance, and eligibility checks.

Employers must navigate the application process meticulously to renew work permits smoothly before the permit expires. This timeline ensures compliance with Ministry of Manpower directives, avoiding disruptions for foreign workers in key industries. Early action prevents last-minute hurdles like quota limits under Dependency Ratio Ceiling.

Key steps include verifying worker eligibility, gathering documents, and submitting via WP Online for a new Work Permit. Sectors such as construction and manufacturing face specific levy payments and housing rules. Detailed subheadings outline each phase for precise execution.

By initiating renewing work permits early, employers safeguard business continuity and foreign worker rights. Practical coordination with MOM portals streamlines permit renewals across approved source countries. This structured approach aligns with 2026 trends in Singapore's labour market.

Month 6: Initial Preparation and Employer Responsibilities

At month 6 before Work Permit expiry, employers must assess quota availability under Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC), pay outstanding levy, ensure housing compliance, and secure medical insurance for foreign workers as per Ministry of Manpower (MOM) directives.

Begin by checking the foreign worker's current status through WP Online, confirming no breaches in employment terms. Verify the Security Bond validity and renew if nearing lapse, a critical step for sectors like marine and process. Update records via the online foreign workers address service to maintain accuracy, ensuring full compliance.

• Review Primary Care Plan (PCP) coverage for comprehensive medical insurance under Singapore's requirements.

• Confirm levy payments are current to avoid penalties.

• Assess housing meets Ministry of Manpower (MOM) standards, especially for Construction sector workers.

Employers bear primary responsibilities here, ensuring all preparations position the renewal favourably. This phase sets a solid foundation, mitigating risks of unable to renew scenarios. Proactive measures uphold compliance in Singapore's stringent Work Permit framework.

Month 4-5: Gathering Documents and Pre-Application Checks

During months 4-5, gather essential documents including passport, employment contract, medical exam results, biometrics data, and proof of minimum salary, age, and approved source countries nationality for eligibility confirmation with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

Conduct pre-application checks with Immigration & Checkpoints Authority for any travel restrictions on the foreign worker. Ensure medical screening results are recent, verifying no health issues disqualify renewal. Cross-check nationality against MOM's list of approved source countries for the relevant sector.

• Secure updated passport copies valid beyond the new work permit expiry.

• Prepare employment contract detailing job scope, salary meeting minimum thresholds.

• Compile proof of age and qualifications for Services sector or Manufacturing sector roles.

These documents form the backbone of a successful work permit renewal, preventing rejections. Employers should organise files digitally for WP Online upload, streamlining the process. Thorough verification now avoids delays later in the timeline.

Month 3: Submitting the Renewal Application via WP Online

In month 3, submit the renewal application to renew a work permit through WP Online on the MOM portal, generating a renewal letter and tracking status for the new Work Permit.

Log into the work permit online system, select renew work option, and upload all gathered documents. Pay applicable fees promptly to initiate processing, receiving an immediate work permit renewal notice. Track progress via the portal, noting any requests for additional information.

1. Enter local worker details and select sector like Construction sector or Services sector.

2. Attach security bond confirmation and medical insurance proofs.

3. Submit and save the renewal letter for records.

Upon approval, the work permit is renewed, issuing a new work permit card post-biometrics. Employers must ensure the worker does not leave Singapore during processing to avoid complications. This submission marks a pivotal step in the seamless renewal journey.

What Happens If You Apply Less Than 1 Month Before Expiry?

Applying less than 1 month before work permit expiry risks processing delays, potential rejection, and requirements for foreign workers to leave Singapore if unable to renew in time. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) prioritises timely applications through WP Online, but last-minute submissions strain this system. Employers face immediate compliance issues as a result.

Rushed applications often trigger additional scrutiny on eligibility criteria, such as quota limits and sector-specific requirements in construction, manufacturing, or services. MOM may request supplementary documents like medical insurance proofs or security bond renewals, extending the work permit renewal process. This delay disrupts employment continuity for the foreign worker and the employer alike.

In high-demand sectors like logistics and marine, where manpower shortages are common, such delays amplify operational challenges. Foreign workers might need to cease work, leading to productivity losses and potential levy penalties for non-compliance. Employers must then navigate rehiring processes, including biometrics screening and housing arrangements.

To mitigate these risks, experts recommend initiating renewal at least two months ahead via WP Online, ensuring all documents like the renewal notice and employment details are ready. Proactive planning upholds employer responsibilities and safeguards worker rights, avoiding scenarios where individuals must leave Singapore abruptly.

Risks and Consequences of an Expired Work Permit During Processing

If a Work Permit expires during renewal processing, foreign workers face risks like work stoppage, fines for employers breaching security bond, and compliance issues under MOM regulations. Employers in sectors such as construction and manufacturing must navigate these challenges carefully to avoid disruptions. Singapore's strict enforcement underscores the need for timely action.

The foreign worker may need to cease operations immediately upon expiry, leading to project delays in logistics or marine industries. Employers risk forfeiting the security bond if they allow continued employment without a valid pass. MOM monitors these cases closely through WP Online submissions.

Compliance failures can trigger investigations, affecting future permit renewals and quota allocations. Practical advice includes initiating the renewal process well before the expiry date, gathering documents like medical insurance proofs early. This proactive approach safeguards both worker rights and employer responsibilities.

In 2026 trends, heightened scrutiny on work permit expiry emphasises digital tracking via work permit online portals. Entities like the Ministry of Manpower prioritise seamless transitions to prevent unauthorised employment. Planning ahead ensures the new Work Permit card arrives without interruption, respecting the Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC)

.

Can You Continue Working If the Permit Expires Mid-Process?

No, you cannot continue working legally if the Work Permit expires mid-process; MOM guidelines require a valid work pass, potentially halting employment until issuance of the new work permit card. This rule applies across sectors like services and process industries. Foreign workers must understand their limited rights during this gap.

The renewal process does not grant automatic extensions for on-site duties, even if the application is approved in principle. Employers face immediate compliance risks if they overlook this. A practical example involves a manufacturing firm pausing operations until biometrics and screening clear for the renewed pass.

Exceptions rarely apply without prior MOM approval, such as short bridging periods for eligible S Pass holders. Workers should prepare by checking work permit renewal notice timelines via WP Online. Leaving Singapore temporarily might be necessary if unable to renew on time.

To mitigate, submit the renewal letter and levy payments ahead, ensuring medical exams align with requirements. This upholds employment pass standards indirectly for Work Permit holders. Staying informed prevents unexpected work stoppages in Singapore's competitive job market.

Penalties for Overstaying Without a Valid Permit

Overstaying without a valid permit incurs fines up to SGD 10,000, imprisonment, and deportation, with employers facing additional penalties for non-compliance. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority enforces these strictly alongside MOM. Foreign workers and employers share responsibilities in avoiding such outcomes.

2026 trends show intensified checks on housing and online foreign workers address service records, amplifying risks for overstayers. Construction sector employers, for instance, have dealt with security bond claims after permit lapses. Practical steps include monitoring the work permit expiry via renewal notices.

Deportation bans can bar re-entry from source countries, complicating future foreign worker hiring under quotas. Employers must cover repatriation costs and lose levy refunds. Experts recommend early applications to meet minimum age, nationality, and salary criteria.

Avoidance strategies involve verifying eligibility, insurance, and DRC compliance before submission. Use WP Online for real-time status on the work permit renewal process. This diligence protects against fines and ensures smooth transitions for local and foreign employment needs.

How to Handle Delays or Rejections in Renewal Processing

Handle delays or rejections in work permit renewal processing by resubmitting corrected documents via WP Online, appealing to MOM, or preparing alternatives like S Pass or Employment Pass. Employers facing such issues must act swiftly to avoid disruptions in manpower logistics. This approach ensures continuity for foreign workers in sectors like construction and manufacturing.

Delays often stem from incomplete application documents, pending medical insurance verification, or security bond discrepancies. In such cases, check the renewal notice status regularly on WP Online and upload missing items promptly. Proactive monitoring prevents escalation to full rejections.

Rejections commonly arise from quota limits, ineligibility due to age or nationality restrictions, or non-compliance with levy payments. For instance, if a worker from a source country exceeds sector quotas in services or marine industries, the application may fail. Review MOM guidelines to identify specific barriers before proceeding.

• Verify all biometrics screening and housing details are current for the Process sector.

• Ensure the worker meets minimum salary and eligibility criteria for renewal.

• Prepare a renewal letter outlining compliance with local hiring rules.

When appealing a rejection in Singapore, submit a formal request through WP Online within the stipulated timeframe, attaching evidence of corrections. If unable to renew, consider transitioning to an S Pass for skilled workers or Employment Pass for professionals. This strategic pivot maintains operational flow amid permit expiry challenges.

Common Reasons for Rejections and How to Avoid Them

Rejections in the Work Permit renewal process frequently occur due to exceeded sector quotas in high-demand areas like Construction sector and Manufacturing sector. Employers must cross-check availability against Ministry of Manpower (MOM)'s manpower limits before submission. Failing this leads to swift denials.

Ineligibility issues, such as workers surpassing the maximum age or originating from non-approved source countries, also trigger rejections. Non-compliance with medical insurance or security bond requirements compounds problems. Always confirm these elements align with 2026 trends in foreign worker policies.

To sidestep pitfalls, conduct a pre-submission audit of all documents via WP Online. Address potential gaps in levy payments, DRC compliance, or housing arrangements early. This diligence fortifies the application against common hurdles.

• Monitor work permit expiry dates to initiate renewal well in advance.

• Update the online foreign workers address service for accurate notifications.

• Secure endorsements for sectors with stringent eligibility rules.

Step-by-Step Guide to Appealing a Rejection

Initiate an appeal by logging into WP Online and selecting the rejected work permit renewal application. Gather supporting documents proving resolution of issues like quota shortfalls or eligibility mismatches. Submit within MOM's deadline to preserve chances of approval.

Draft a clear appeal letter detailing corrections, such as updated medical exams or proof of levy clearance. Reference the original rejection notice and highlight employer responsibilities met. Precision in this step demonstrates commitment to compliance.

If the appeal succeeds, expect a new work permit card issuance; otherwise, prepare alternatives like S Pass applications. Track progress diligently and consult MOM resources for sector-specific advice. This methodical process minimises downtime for foreign workers.

Managing Delays in Processing

Delays in renewal processing often link to high volumes during peak periods or logistical backlogs in biometrics and screening by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). Employers should submit applications early, ideally before the Work Permit permit expires, to buffer against such hold-ups. Regular status checks on WP Online keep you informed.

Address delays by resubmitting clarified documents promptly, ensuring all insurance and bond details are verified. Coordinate with workers to avoid leave Singapore requirements during waits. This keeps teams operational in services or marine sectors.

• Anticipate processing times based on past renewal experiences.

• Maintain open communication with MOM for clarification.

• Plan contingencies, like temporary local hires, if renewal lags.

Required Documents and Eligibility for 2026 Renewals

For 2026 renewals, required documents include passport, medical report, insurance proof, Security Bond details, alongside eligibility criteria like minimum salary, age, and sector-specific rules from MOM. Employers must gather these items early to avoid delays in the work permit renewal process. Familiarity with MOM guidelines ensures smooth compliance.

Core documents encompass the worker's valid passport, a recent medical examination report, proof of medical insurance, and details of the security bond. Sector-specific additions apply, such as levy payments for construction or housing declarations for dormitories. Submit everything via WP Online for efficiency.

Eligibility hinges on factors like the worker's nationality from approved source countries, minimum age of 18, and qualifying salary thresholds. Sectors like marine and process impose unique rules, including Primary Care Plan (PCP) enrolment. Employers should verify these against MOM's latest updates to confirm suitability.

• Passport valid beyond the renewal period.

• Medical report from MOM-approved clinics, no older than three months.

• Insurance proof covering at least S$15,000 in medical expenses.

• Security bond confirmation for foreign workers.

• Levy payment receipts and housing details.

Changes in 2026 MOM Policies for Work Permits

2026 MOM policies introduce tighter quotas in construction and manufacturing sectors, updated approved source countries lists, and enhanced medical insurance via Primary Care Plan (PCP) for Work Permits. These shifts aim to balance manpower needs with local priorities. Employers face new compliance demands in the Services sector too.

Construction and manufacturing now enforce stricter dependency ratios, limiting foreign worker numbers to protect local jobs. Updated nationality lists exclude certain countries, prompting employers to review their workforce early. Non-compliance risks fines or permit rejections during renewal.

Enhanced PCP requirements mandate comprehensive coverage for all Work Permit holders, including those in logistics and marine sectors. Employers must provide proof of insurance alongside security bonds and housing compliance. This protects workers while streamlining MOM approvals.

Services sector employers should note adjusted quotas and biometrics screening updates. Practical steps include auditing current contracts against new rules and preparing renewal notices well before the work permit expiry. Proactive planning minimises disruptions to operations.

Work Permit Renewal Timing and Extensions

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) recommends initiating the work permit renewal process well before the permit expires. Use WP Online for applications related to sectors like construction, manufacturing, and services. Key factors include levy payments, medical insurance, and security bond status.

For S Pass and Employment Pass holders, timing aligns with similar principles, though eligibility hinges on salary thresholds and job roles. The online foreign workers address service helps update living details during renewal. Employers must verify quota limits and Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) compliance.

If delays occur, MOM may grant short extensions, but workers might need to leave Singapore if unable to renew. Always prepare documents like renewal letters and biometrics screening results. This proactive approach minimises disruptions for both employers and workers.

When should I start the work permit renewal process?

Begin the work permit renewal 3-6 months before the expiry date via WP Online. This timeline allows time for document verification, medical checks, and quota assessments in sectors such as logistics and Marine sector. Early action prevents last-minute issues with foreign workers from approved source countries.

Employers must review eligibility requirements, including minimum age, nationality, and compliance with levy obligations. For construction and manufacturing jobs, confirm housing arrangements and security bond validity. A renewal notice from MOM signals the ideal starting point.

Delays can lead to work permit expiry without options to stay, requiring workers to leave Singapore. Use the online foreign workers address service to keep records current. This ensures the new work permit card issues promptly upon approval.

What happens if the work permit expires before renewal?

If the work permit expires, the foreign worker cannot legally work in Singapore until renewal approval. MOM advises against overstaying, as it triggers fines for employers and repatriation for workers. Immediate application through WP Online is crucial post-expiry, subject to extension eligibility.

Check security bond, medical insurance, and manpower quotas beforehand. Sectors like services face stricter DRC enforcement for local worker ratios. Unable to renew cases often stem from incomplete documents or failed screening.

Workers may need to leave Singapore during processing if no extension applies. Employers should prepare a renewal letter outlining the job continuity. Once approved, the work permit is renewed with updated terms on rights and responsibilities.

How do S Pass and Employment Pass renewals differ from work permits?

S Pass and Employment Pass renewals focus on professional roles, salary criteria, and educational qualifications, unlike basic work permits for semi-skilled jobs in the Process sector. Applications occur via WP Online or dedicated portals, with processing tied to company quotas. MOM evaluates fairness to local professionals through Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) limits.

For Employment Pass, higher salary bands apply, suiting managerial positions across sectors. S Pass targets mid-skilled workers in manufacturing or services, requiring minimum salary thresholds. Both demand biometrics and compliance checks similar to work permits.

Timing mirrors Work Permits, starting months early to align with permit expiry. Employers must submit levy-free applications for passes like S Pass or Employment Pass, unlike Work Permit levies. Renewals reinforce ongoing manpower trends favouring skilled foreign talent in Singapore's economy.

Can MOM extend work permits if renewal is delayed?

Ministry of Manpower (MOM) offers limited extension options for Work Permit renewals delayed by valid reasons, such as medical issues or document delays. Apply promptly via WP Online, providing evidence like hospital records or renewal notices. Extensions rarely exceed short periods to maintain compliance.

Foreign workers in Construction sector or Process sector benefit most if quotas and Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC) allow. Verify insurance, housing, and Security Bond before requesting. Failure to secure extension means workers must leave Singapore until approval.

Employers bear responsibility for costs, including potential levies during limbo. Use the online foreign workers address service for seamless updates. This safeguard supports uninterrupted job continuity when renewals face hurdles.

Frequently Asked Questions: Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and MOM Guidelines

When should I start the renewal process for my Singapore work permit ?

It is recommended to begin the renewal process 3-6 months before your current work permit expires. This optimal window allows ample time for gathering documents, submitting the application via the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) portal, and addressing any potential issues without risking a lapse in your legal work status.

What happens if my Singapore work permit expires while the renewal is being processed in the 2026 timeline?

If your permit expires during processing, you may be allowed to continue working under a Notification Letter issued by MOM, provided the application was submitted before expiry. However, this carries risks like processing delays or rejections, emphasising why starting 3-6 months early is crucial to avoid complications.

What are the key risks of delaying work permit renewal beyond the recommended timeline?

This article highlights risks such as overstaying without authorisation (fines up to SGD 20,000 or jail time), inability to work legally, deportation, and bans on future applications. Delaying past the 3-6 month window increases rejection chances due to incomplete documentation or quota issues.

What documents are required for a successful work permit renewal?

It advises preparing documents like a valid passport, current Work Permit details, employer's declaration, Primary Care Plan (PCP) proof, and updated educational/testimonial certificates. Start collecting these 3-6 months before expiry to ensure a smooth submission through the WP Online system.

How long does the Singapore work permit renewal process typically take?

As detailed in the articl, processing typically takes 1-3 weeks for straightforward cases if submitted 3-6 months early. Delays can occur due to high volumes or additional checks, which is why the timeline stresses early initiation to buffer against such risks.

Can I work in Singapore after my permit expires if I've started the renewal?

Yes, if you apply before expiry, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) issues a Notification Letter allowing continued work during processing, subject to Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) rules. However, the guide warns of risks if approval is denied, reinforcing the need to follow the 3-6 month pre-expiry timeline for maximum security.