Asia – Singapore Visa – Transit Visa

1. Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?

Citizens from over 80 countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European nations, do not require a visa to enter Singapore for up to 90 days. You can check if you require a visa here or contact the nearest Singaporean embassy or consulate.

2. How do I apply for a visa?
If you are not eligible for the visa-free entry, you will need to apply for a visa through your nearest Singaporean embassy or consulate. The application process may vary depending on your nationality and type of visa you are applying for. Generally, it involves filling out an application form, providing supporting documents such as a passport with at least six months validity, proof of sufficient funds and purpose of visit, and paying the necessary fees.

3. What is the cost of a Singapore visa?
The cost of a Singapore visa varies depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. The basic tourist visa fees range from US$30 to US$60.

4. How long does it take to process a Singapore visa?
Visa processing times can vary depending on your nationality and type of visa application. Generally, it takes 3-5 working days for tourist visas to be processed.

5. Can I extend my stay in Singapore without leaving the country?
Yes, you can apply for an extension of stay in Singapore at the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) before your current stay expires. However, this is subject to approval by the ICA.

6. Can I work in Singapore with a tourist visa?
No, you are not allowed to work in Singapore with a tourist visa.

7. Can I study in Singapore with a tourist visa?
No, you are not allowed to study in Singapore with a tourist visa. If you wish to study in Singapore, you will need to apply for a student pass through an educational institution approved by Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration+ (SOLAR+).

8. Can I enter Singapore with a criminal record?
Singapore has strict immigration laws and may deny entry to individuals with criminal records. It is best to check with the nearest Singaporean embassy or consulate for specific entry requirements based on your individual circumstances.

9. What are the requirements for entering Singapore during COVID-19?
Currently, all travelers entering Singapore must adhere to strict health and safety measures, which include pre-departure testing, quarantine requirements, and a mandatory Stay-Home Notice (SHN) upon arrival. The exact requirements vary depending on your country of origin and vaccination status. It is best to check the latest updates on the SafeTravel website before planning your trip.

10. What are the consequences of overstaying my visa in Singapore?
Overstaying your visa in Singapore is considered a serious offense and may result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation. It could also affect your ability to enter Singapore in the future. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to the validity period of your visa and leave the country before it expires. If you need to extend your stay, make sure to apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

2. Can I apply for a Singapore visa online?

Yes, you can apply for a Singapore visa online through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website or through a local contact (such as a Singapore citizen or permanent resident) using the SAVE system. You will need to have a valid passport and credit card to complete the online application.

3. How much does a Singapore visa cost?
The cost of a Singapore visa varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your nationality. You can check the visa fees on the ICA website before applying.

4. How long does it take to process a Singapore visa?
The processing time for a Singapore visa can vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. In general, it can take anywhere from 5-10 working days for an application to be processed and approved.

5. Can I enter Singapore without a visa?
If you are a citizen of one of the 35 countries under the Visa Waiver program, you do not need a visa to enter Singapore for short-term visits (up to 90 days). Otherwise, most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Singapore.

6. Can my Singapore visa be extended?
Yes, some types of visas can be extended in certain circumstances, such as employment visas or student visas. However, tourist visas cannot be extended and visitors must exit and re-enter if they wish to stay longer than their allowed period of stay.

7. Can I work in Singapore with a tourist visa?
No, you cannot work in Singapore with a tourist visa. If you wish to work in Singapore, you will need to apply for an employment pass or other relevant work permit.

8. Will having a criminal record affect my chances of getting a Singapore visa?
Having a criminal record may affect your chances of getting a Singapore visa, but it depends on the severity of your offense and how long ago it occurred. Each case is evaluated on an individual basis by the authorities.

9. Can I travel to other countries from Singapore with a Singapore visa?
No, a Singapore visa only allows you to enter Singapore. If you plan on traveling to other countries, you will need to check their visa requirements and apply for any necessary visas.

10. Do I need a return ticket when applying for a Singapore visa?
Yes, you will typically need to show proof of onward travel or a return ticket when applying for a Singapore visa. This is to ensure that you have plans to leave the country before your visa expires.

3. What are the requirements for a Singapore visa?

The general requirements for a Singapore visa are:

1. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the date of entry into Singapore
2. Completed and signed visa application form
3. Two recent colored passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) taken within the last 3 months, with white background and without headgear
4. Copy of confirmed return air ticket or onward travel itinerary
5. Evidence of sufficient funds to cover the expenses during your stay in Singapore (e.g. bank statements, credit card statements, or traveler’s checks)
6. Proof of accommodation in Singapore (hotel booking confirmation or letter of invitation from a Singaporean citizen/PR)
7. Visa processing fee
8. Depending on your country of citizenship, additional documents such as a copy of your visa to the country you will be traveling from, or a letter from your employer may also be required.

Please note that there may be specific requirements depending on the type and purpose of your visit to Singapore. It is best to check with the nearest Singapore Embassy or Consulate for the complete list of requirements before applying for a visa.

4. How long does it take to process a Singapore visa application?


The processing time for a Singapore visa application may vary depending on the type of visa, the supporting documents provided, and the workload at the immigration office. It typically takes 3-5 working days for a Singapore visa to be processed, but it can take up to 30 days in some cases. It is recommended to apply for a Singapore visa at least 1 month before your planned travel date to allow enough time for processing.

5. Is there an express service for getting a Singapore visa?

There is an Expedited Visa Application Service offered by some visa application centers that can be used for urgent applications. However, this service is not guaranteed and is subject to the discretion of the embassy or consulate. Additional fees may also apply for this service. It is recommended to apply for a visa well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any potential delays or complications.

6. How much does a Singapore visa cost?


The cost of a Singapore visa varies based on the type and duration of the visa. As of 2021, the fees for different types of visas are as follows:

– Single entry visa: SGD30 (approx. USD22)
– Multiple entry visa: SGD90 (approx. USD66)
– Transit visa: Free
– Business and work visas: SGD40 (approx. USD29)
– Student and training visas: SGD60 (approx. USD44)

There may also be additional fees for other services, such as application processing or document authentication. It is recommended to check with the Singapore Embassy or Consulate in your country for up-to-date information on fees and requirements for obtaining a visa.

7. Can I apply for a multiple-entry Singapore visa?


Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry Singapore visa if you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore. The ICA may grant multiple-entry visas for certain nationalities or for specific purposes such as business or frequent visits to Singapore. You will need to provide relevant documents and demonstrate a valid reason for requesting a multiple-entry visa. It is ultimately up to the discretion of the ICA to approve or reject your application.

8. For how long is a Singapore visa valid?


The validity of a Singapore visa can vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. Generally, tourist and business visas are valid for 30 to 90 days, while work visas can be valid for up to 2 years. It is important to check the expiry date on your visa before entering Singapore as overstaying can result in fines or deportation.

9. Can I extend my stay in Singapore after my visa expires?

It depends on the type of visa you have and your nationality. Generally, visitors are not allowed to extend their stay in Singapore beyond the expiration date of their visa. However, you may be able to apply for a visa extension or a new visa before your current one expires. You should contact the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for more information about your specific situation.

10. What is the maximum length of stay allowed on a Singapore tourist visa?


The maximum length of stay allowed on a Singapore tourist visa is 30 days.

11. Do I have to show proof of sufficient funds for my trip to Singapore?


Yes, visitors to Singapore are required to show proof of sufficient funds during their stay in the country. This can be in the form of cash, credit cards, traveler’s checks, or a bank statement showing adequate funds for the duration of your trip. The amount needed may vary depending on your length of stay and planned activities in Singapore.

12. What is the difference between a tourist and business visa for Singapore?


A tourist visa allows for entry into Singapore for the purpose of tourism, leisure, and visiting friends or family. This type of visa typically has a shorter duration and does not allow the holder to engage in business-related activities.

A business visa, also known as a Business Visit Pass (BVP), is for individuals who are traveling to Singapore for business purposes such as attending conferences, meetings, negotiations, or conducting market research. This type of visa usually has a longer validity period and may allow the holder to engage in certain limited business activities during their stay. It may also require additional documentation such as a letter of invitation from a company or organization in Singapore.

13. Is medical insurance mandatory for obtaining a Singapore visa?


It is not mandatory to have medical insurance for obtaining a Singapore visa, but it is highly recommended. Travel insurance that includes medical coverage can provide financial protection in case of medical emergencies during your stay in Singapore. Additionally, some visa types, such as a work visa, may require proof of adequate medical coverage before it can be approved.

14. Can I study with a tourist or business visa in Singapore?

It is generally not allowed to study with a tourist or business visa in Singapore. These visas are intended for short-term visits for the purpose of tourism or business activities. If you wish to study in Singapore, you will need to apply for a student visa.

15. Can I work with a student visa in Singapore?
Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time (maximum of 16 hours per week) during their studies and full-time during scheduled breaks such as school holidays. However, you must obtain a Work Permit or Letter of Consent from your educational institution and the Ministry of Manpower before starting any employment.

15. Will I be provided with an invitation letter by the government of Singapore for my visa application?


No, the government of Singapore does not provide invitation letters for visa applications. You will need to apply for a visa through the appropriate embassy or consulate of Singapore in your country.

16. What are the additional requirements for minors applying for a tourist or business visa to enter Singapore without their parents or guardian?


Minors (below 21 years old) who are applying for a tourist or business visa to enter Singapore without their parents or legal guardian must submit the following additional documents:

1. Letter of Consent – A letter from both parents or legal guardians stating that they consent to the minor travelling to Singapore without them. The letter must also include the contact details of the person the minor will be staying with in Singapore.

2. Birth Certificate – A copy of the minor’s birth certificate to prove their relationship with their parents or legal guardians.

3. Identification Documents – Copies of the parents’ or legal guardians’ identification documents, such as passport or identity card.

4. Proof of Financial Support – Documents showing that the minor has enough funds for their stay in Singapore, such as bank statements, sponsorship letters, or proof of accommodation bookings.

5. Copy of Parents’ IDs and Visa – If one parent is not accompanying the minor, a copy of their identification document and visa validity should be provided.

6. Return/Onward Ticket – A copy of the minor’s return or onward ticket out of Singapore.

7. Application Form – The application form should be signed by the parent/legal guardian on behalf of the minor and include their contact details.

It is also recommended for minors to provide a notarized authorization letter from their parents or legal guardians allowing them to travel alone and a photocopy of their passport data page.

17.Will I get immigration clearance before boarding my flight if travelling to another country via transit through Singapore?


Yes, you will get immigration clearance before boarding your flight if travelling to another country via transit through Singapore. Transit passengers are required to go through immigration clearance at the Changi Airport before continuing their journey to their final destination. Depending on your nationality and the length of your layover, you may also need to apply for a transit visa.

18.Are there any specific conditions that apply to travellers who require transit visas?


Yes, there are specific conditions that may apply to travelers who require transit visas. These conditions vary depending on the country or countries through which the traveler will be transiting.

Some common conditions that may apply include:

1. Stay duration: Transit visas usually have a limited validity period and only allow travelers to stay in the transit country for a certain number of hours or days before continuing their journey.

2. Proof of onward travel: Many countries require travelers to have proof of onward travel, such as a confirmed flight ticket, when applying for a transit visa. This is to ensure that the traveler will not stay in the transit country illegally.

3. Visa for final destination: In some cases, travelers may need to have a valid visa for their final destination in order to be granted a transit visa.

4. Port of entry restrictions: Some countries may restrict travelers from entering certain airports or ports of entry if they hold a transit visa.

5. Purpose of travel: Transit visas are usually issued for the purpose of continuing onward travel and do not permit activities such as tourism or business within the transit country.

6. Vaccination requirements: Some countries may require travelers to provide proof of certain vaccinations before being granted a transit visa.

It is important for travelers to carefully review the specific conditions and requirements for obtaining a transit visa for their intended destination(s) before applying. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in denial of entry into the transit country or even arrest and deportation.

19.Can I get an instant-approval transit through pass upon arrival in Singapore without having applied in advance?


No, you cannot get an instant-approval transit through pass upon arrival in Singapore without having applied in advance. Visitors who require a visa to enter Singapore must obtain a valid visa before their arrival. This includes those who are transiting through Singapore on their way to another destination. The transit through pass can only be obtained by submitting an application online or at the immigration checkpoints upon arrival.

20.How do I know if my country is eligible for the transit without Visa (TWOV. Facility?


You can check the eligibility for transit without visa (TWOV) facility on the official website of the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to transit through. You can also refer to the list of countries eligible for TWOV published by immigration authorities. Alternatively, you can contact your airline or travel agent for more information.