Singapore – Visas

Do I need a visa to move to Singapore?

Singapore extends visa-free entry privileges to passport holders from a wide range of countries and territories. Citizens from eligible nations may enter on a temporary basis for either 30 or 90 days without obtaining a visa in advance, with the exact period depending on their nationality. It is essential to understand, however, that visa-free entry applies only to brief visits — it does not confer any right to reside, take up employment, or pursue a course of study.

Passport holders from certain countries — including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, India, Iraq, Jordan, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, and several others — are required to obtain a valid visa before entering Singapore for any purpose. If your passport was issued by one of these countries, you must apply for an entry visa prior to your journey, even for a brief stay.

It is also important to note that a Singapore entry visa is not the same as an immigration pass. The visa is a form of pre-clearance that permits the holder to travel to Singapore and present themselves at the border; the actual permission to enter — and for how long — is decided by ICA officers at the point of arrival. Visa approval therefore does not guarantee entry.

Holders of US passports — including regular, official, and diplomatic categories — are not required to obtain a visa for social or business visits to Singapore, but must still satisfy all entry conditions. Likewise, nationals of EU member states and most Commonwealth countries may enter without a visa for short stays. For any form of long-term residence, however, all foreign nationals — regardless of their country of citizenship — must hold the relevant pass. You should always confirm the requirements that apply to your specific passport through the ICA’s visa requirements checker.

Your passport must carry at least six months of validity beyond your intended date of entry into Singapore. Additionally, all travellers are required to complete the SG Arrival Card within three days before arriving in Singapore (including the day of arrival), with the exception of Singapore citizens, Permanent Residents, and Long-Term Pass holders entering through land checkpoints. Completing the SG Arrival Card is free of charge and can be done through the SGAC e-Service or the MyICA Mobile app.

What types of visa are available for people moving to Singapore?

Singapore does not offer a conventional long-stay “residence visa” of the kind found in many other countries. Long-term residence is instead granted through a pass system administered principally by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and the ICA. The pass you are required to hold depends on your purpose for being in Singapore. In contrast to the points-based immigration systems used in countries like Australia or Canada, most Singapore passes require a specific employer sponsor or an established business connection.

Employment Pass (EP): The Employment Pass is intended for foreign professionals, managers, and executives seeking to live and work in Singapore, and represents the most widely used route for expats relocating for professional reasons. The minimum monthly salary threshold is S$5,000 for most sectors, rising to S$5,600 from January 2025 (and S$6,200 for the financial sector). A new application is valid for up to 2 years, while renewals may be granted for up to 3 years. EP candidates must satisfy a two-stage eligibility framework, comprising the qualifying salary and a points-based COMPASS assessment.

S Pass: The S Pass is aimed at mid-skilled foreign workers who satisfy specific eligibility criteria, including a minimum monthly salary of SGD 3,000 or above, relevant qualifications, and employer sponsorship. It is suited to applicants who do not meet the higher salary threshold required for the Employment Pass. Employers are subject to quota limits on how many S Pass holders they may employ at any one time.

EntrePass: The EntrePass is specifically for foreign entrepreneurs who wish to establish and run a business in Singapore that is either venture-backed or involves innovative technologies. Rather than a minimum salary, eligibility hinges on demonstrating the innovative potential of the proposed business — through venture capital funding, intellectual property, or research partnerships. The business concerned must be less than six months old at the point of application.

Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): The Personalised Employment Pass is for high-earning existing EP holders or overseas professionals with a monthly income of at least SGD 18,000, and offers considerably greater flexibility in terms of job mobility — holders do not need to obtain a new sponsor when changing employer. The concept is broadly comparable to certain high-skill independent visas available in other countries, in that it frees the holder from dependence on a single employer.

ONE Pass (Overseas Networks & Expertise Pass): The ONE Pass targets exceptionally skilled and accomplished individuals across all fields — including business, technology, science, the arts, sport, and academia — who earn a fixed monthly salary of at least S$30,000 or who have a demonstrable record of outstanding achievement. Valid for 5 years, the ONE Pass allows qualifying individuals to relocate to Singapore without first needing to secure employment.

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): The LTVP is issued to certain family members of Singapore citizens, PRs, or pass holders who do not qualify for a Dependant’s Pass. It is also used for individuals in common-law or same-sex relationships, given the current legal framework in Singapore. Applications for the Long-Term Visit Pass typically take up to 6 weeks to process.

Singapore has no dedicated retirement visa. Those who are retired and wish to remain in Singapore on a long-term basis generally need to qualify through family ties, the PR system, or an investor route.

How do I apply for a visa for Singapore?

The steps involved in applying differ depending on whether you require a short-stay entry visa or a longer-term work or residence pass. For long-term passes such as the Employment Pass, your employer or sponsor submits the application on your behalf through the Ministry of Manpower’s online portal. For short-stay entry visas, the procedure is set out below.

1. Check whether you need a visa: Consult the ICA’s official visa requirements page to establish whether your passport nationality obliges you to obtain a visa before travelling to Singapore.
2. Identify your application route: If you have no local contact in Singapore with a Singpass or Corppass account, you may submit your visa application either through an authorised visa agent appointed by a Singapore Overseas Mission, or in person at the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission.
3. Apply via a local contact (where possible): Where you have a local contact in Singapore who is a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident holding a SingPass account, they may submit a visa application on your behalf online via the SAVE system on the ICA’s website.
4. Apply at a Singapore Overseas Mission or via an authorised agent: Alternatively, a visa may be obtained through the nearest Singaporean diplomatic mission or one of its authorised visa agents abroad, in which case no local Singapore contact is necessary.
5. US-based applicants: Those located in the United States who require a visa should refer to the Embassy of Singapore in Washington DC. All foreign visitors must satisfy the entry requirements set out by the ICA; the embassy directs applicants to the ICA entry requirements page for full details. Singapore also maintains consulates in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston — refer to the MFA website to identify the consulate closest to you.
6. UK-based applicants: Applicants in the United Kingdom should contact the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in London, or visit the ICA’s website for information on authorised visa agents operating in the UK.
7. Submit supporting documents and pay the fee: Assemble all required documentation (see the following section), complete the application form, and pay the relevant fee. It is advisable to purchase airfares only after your visa has been approved, and to submit your application 2–3 weeks ahead of your planned travel date.
8. Receive your e-Visa: Applicants who apply successfully via the ICA’s online portal will be issued an e-Visa, a printout of which may be used to enter Singapore.

For Employment Pass and other work pass applications, the sponsoring employer submits the application through the Ministry of Manpower’s EP Online portal. The applicant is not required to attend a consulate for the initial application, although biometric enrolment may be needed after arriving in Singapore. Always check the ICA’s official website for the most current procedures.

What documents do I need to apply for a visa for Singapore?

The documents required depend on the type of visa or pass you are applying for. The lists below reflect the standard requirements for the most common application categories, but you should always consult the ICA website or the relevant Singapore Overseas Mission for a definitive and current checklist tailored to your specific situation.

For a short-stay entry visa, you will typically need:

• A valid passport carrying at least six months of validity from your intended date of entry into Singapore.
• A completed visa application form (Form 14A, available at no charge from Singapore Overseas Missions or as a download from the MFA website).
• One recent passport-sized photograph taken within the preceding three months, in colour, against a plain white background with a matt or semi-matt finish, clearly showing your full face without headgear (except where headgear is worn for religious or racial customs and does not obscure facial features).
• Evidence of onward travel, such as a return or connecting ticket, along with any visas required for your next destination.
• Proof that you have adequate funds to cover your stay.
• Details of your accommodation arrangements (hotel booking confirmation or your host’s address).

For an Employment Pass application, documents typically include:

• A copy of the applicant’s passport biodata page.
• Educational certificates and professional qualifications.
• A letter of offer or employment contract from a Singapore-registered company.
• Salary information confirming the applicable minimum threshold is met.
• Further documents may be required based on the applicant’s nationality — for example, Indian nationals are typically asked to provide transcripts and mark sheets, while Chinese nationals may be required to supply a graduation certificate and English-language verification from sources recommended by MOM.

For a PR application, key documents include:

• Passport, identity card, birth certificate, and a recent digital passport-sized photograph; educational certificates and professional qualifications; a letter from your current employer, a detailed CV, and payslips for the preceding six months; and an IRAS consent letter authorising ICA to verify your income details directly with the relevant authority.

Translation requirements: Documents not in English must be accompanied by translations that have been attested by the embassy of the issuing country or notarised by a notary public in Singapore or in the country of origin. The ICA does not endorse any private translation companies. Always confirm the current translation standards required directly with the ICA or the relevant Singapore Overseas Mission.

How long does a visa application for Singapore take to process?

Processing durations differ considerably depending on the application type. As a general principle, begin your application well ahead of your planned move date, as timelines can shift and individual cases may exceed published estimates.

Short-stay entry visas: Entry visa applications are typically decided within 3 working days of submission (not counting the day the application is received) for most nationalities. Some applications may require three to five working days, and in certain cases the process may take longer. Delegates and visitors are encouraged to submit their applications through a Singapore Overseas Mission or an authorised visa agent at least one month before their intended arrival.

Employment Pass: EP applications submitted via MOM’s online platform are usually processed within 3 weeks, although this can vary. MOM publishes current processing time estimates on its portal, and it is worth reviewing these before submitting, as they are periodically updated.

Permanent Residence applications: PR applications may take up to 6 months to process, and in practice some cases can take even longer. Singapore citizenship applications may take up to 12 months.

Long-Term Visit Pass: Applications for the Long-Term Visit Pass generally take up to 6 weeks to process.

All figures cited above are as of 2024–2025. Always consult the ICA’s official website and the MOM portal for the most up-to-date estimates before beginning any application.

How much does it cost to apply for a visa for Singapore?

Visa and pass fees in Singapore are determined by the government and may be revised from time to time. The figures below are intended as guidance with “as of” qualifiers — always confirm the current fee schedule on the ICA’s official website or the Ministry of Manpower portal before submitting any application.

Short-stay entry visa: The government visa processing fee is SGD 30 (as of the published schedule). Where you apply through an authorised visa agent, that agent will charge an additional service fee on top of the government amount.

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP): Each LTVP application attracts a fee of S$105 payable at submission, with a further issuance fee of S$60 due upon approval (as of the published schedule). Further costs may arise from document notarisation, translation, or medical examinations.

Permanent Residence application: The processing fee for a PR application is S$100, which is non-refundable (as of 2025). Should your application succeed, additional fees apply to complete the process, including S$120 for the Entry Permit and related charges.

Employment Pass: EP application fees are paid by the sponsoring employer through MOM’s online portal. Refer to the MOM website for the current fee schedule, as these are subject to periodic review.

Additional costs to budget for: Beyond the government fees, applicants should allow for the cost of document translation, notarisation, medical examinations (required for certain passes and upon PR completion), legal or immigration consultant fees where applicable, and health insurance. While Singapore does not impose private health insurance as a formal visa condition in the same way some other countries do, comprehensive coverage is strongly recommended given the high cost of private healthcare.

Can my family members join me in Singapore on a visa?

Singapore operates a structured family reunification system in which the ability to bring dependants is directly linked to the type of pass held by the primary applicant and the income they earn. Unlike some other countries where family reunion is treated as a largely standalone entitlement, Singapore’s framework requires the principal pass holder to satisfy specific income thresholds before they can sponsor family members.

Dependant’s Pass (DP): The Dependant’s Pass enables spouses and unmarried children under 21 of eligible EP or PEP holders to join them in Singapore. The primary pass holder must earn at least SGD 6,000 per month and must provide documentary evidence of the relevant family relationship. The validity of the Dependant’s Pass is aligned to that of the sponsoring work pass. This threshold was updated as of 2025 — always verify the current figure on the MOM website.

Working rights for Dependant’s Pass holders: DP holders are not automatically permitted to work in Singapore. However, they may apply for a Letter of Consent once they have secured a job offer, which, if granted, allows them to take up employment.

Long-Term Visit Pass for family members: Depending on their relationship to the EP or EntrePass holder, certain family members may qualify for a Long-Term Visit Pass rather than a Dependant’s Pass. Common-law partners, stepchildren, and parents may fall into this category, subject to the primary applicant meeting the applicable criteria.

Sponsoring parents: EP holders wishing to sponsor a Dependant’s Pass must earn at least S$6,000 per month, or at least S$12,000 per month to sponsor a parental Long-Term Visit Pass, as per the published eligibility criteria.

EntrePass holders: EntrePass holders whose business meets minimum annual spending and local employment requirements may apply for Dependant’s Passes and LTVPs for eligible family members.

Dependant’s Pass and LTVP applications are submitted separately from the primary pass holder’s application. Family members should submit applications and obtain approval before travelling to Singapore on a long-term basis. For complete eligibility details and current income thresholds, refer to the MOM Dependant’s Pass page.

Can I extend my visa or apply for permanent residence in Singapore?

Most long-term passes in Singapore can be renewed, provided the holder continues to satisfy the relevant eligibility conditions. A pathway to permanent residence exists for many long-term pass holders, although approval is granted at the authorities’ discretion.

Renewing work passes: When seeking a work pass renewal, the sponsoring employer must confirm that all conditions stipulated by MOM remain satisfied — including the minimum salary level, consistency of the job role, and compliance with any industry-specific rules. Renewals are generally straightforward where all eligibility criteria continue to be met.

Extending a short-stay visit: Visitors wishing to prolong their stay beyond the period granted upon entry must apply to the ICA for a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) extension via ICA’s e-Service. Overstaying in Singapore is a criminal offence, and anyone who wishes to remain beyond their authorised period must seek approval before their current stay expires.

Applying for Permanent Residence: The ICA considers PR applications under three distinct schemes: Family Ties, Professionals/Technical Personnel and Skilled Workers (PTS), and the Global Investor Programme (GIP). For working expats, the PTS scheme is by far the most common route. It is primarily accessible to foreign professionals currently employed in Singapore on an Employment Pass or EntrePass, and applicants are expected to have a stable employment and residence history in Singapore of at least two years.

When assessing PR applications, the ICA weighs a range of factors including family ties to Singaporeans, economic contribution, qualifications, age, family profile, and length of residency. There is no automatic or guaranteed entitlement to PR status; all decisions rest entirely with the government and are made on a discretionary basis.

The Global Investor Programme: Administered by the Singapore Economic Development Board, the GIP is directed at high-net-worth investors prepared to commit a minimum of S$2.5 million into the Singaporean economy, either through direct business investment or participation in approved investment funds.

Re-Entry Permits: PRs who wish to travel outside Singapore must hold a valid Re-Entry Permit. If a PR departs without a valid REP, or remains outside Singapore after their REP expires, their PR status is automatically forfeited. The ICA typically renews REPs every 5 years, subject to PRs being able to demonstrate genuine residence and sustained economic, familial, or other meaningful ties to Singapore.

Route to citizenship: Permanent residence is a prerequisite for Singapore citizenship, as naturalisation requires the applicant to have held PR status; those who have been PRs for at least 6 months may apply for citizenship. Citizenship applications may take up to 12 months to process.

What are the most common reasons visa applications for Singapore are refused?

Singapore’s immigration authorities do not always disclose the specific grounds for a refusal, but certain factors are regularly associated with unsuccessful applications. Being aware of these can help you assemble the most robust submission possible.

Incomplete or incorrect documentation: Applications that are missing documents, or where submitted documents are unclear or improperly formatted, may be delayed or rejected outright. Ensure that every item on the checklist is provided, correctly presented, and — where required — formally translated and notarised.

Failure to meet salary or qualification thresholds: For Employment Pass applications, not achieving the required COMPASS points score or falling below the minimum qualifying salary is a frequently cited basis for refusal. The Complementarity Assessment Framework requires a minimum score of 40 points across individual and company-related criteria, and the complexity of the framework can make it difficult to meet this threshold.

Insufficient proof of funds or genuine intent to leave: For short-stay visa applicants, immigration officers will assess whether the applicant has adequate financial means for their stay and a credible intention to depart at the end of the visit. You should be able to demonstrate sufficient funds for the duration of your stay and have confirmed onward or return travel arrangements in place.

Criminal record: A history of criminal offences — particularly serious ones — is a significant ground for refusal and may affect both visa and PR applications. Disclose any relevant history honestly; misrepresentation is itself grounds for refusal and may result in a ban from future entry.

Business type restrictions for EntrePass applicants: Certain types of businesses — including coffee shops, hawker centres, food courts, bars, nightclubs, karaoke lounges, massage parlours, and employment agencies — are excluded from the EntrePass scheme. Applying on the basis of an ineligible business type will lead to a refusal.

What to do if refused: If a short-stay visa application is refused, you may reapply and provide additional supporting documentation. For PR refusals, there is no formal appeals mechanism; however, a refusal does not permanently close the door, and reflecting on the common grounds for rejection is a useful starting point for strengthening a future application. For work pass refusals, MOM will generally indicate a reason, and the employer may have the option to reapply or request a review. If your situation is complex, you may wish to seek advice from a qualified Singapore-registered immigration lawyer or consultant. Note, however, that the ICA has no affiliation with any external migration agencies that describe themselves as Singapore immigration specialists, and does not endorse or support services offered by self-styled professional immigration consultancy providers in relation to PR applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Singapore as a tourist?

Singapore permits visa-free entry for nationals of many countries and territories. Eligible passport holders may enter for either 30 or 90 days without a visa in advance, depending on nationality. Use the ICA’s visa requirements page to check whether your specific passport requires a visa before you travel.

Can I work in Singapore on a tourist or short-stay entry?

Every foreign national must hold a valid work pass before starting any form of employment in Singapore, and employers bear legal responsibility for ensuring all foreign staff hold the appropriate authorisation. Working without the correct pass is a serious criminal offence. Your work pass must be approved before you begin employment.

How do I know if my job qualifies for an Employment Pass?

The Employment Pass is designed for foreign professionals, managers, and executives. From January 2025, applicants must earn a minimum monthly salary of SGD 5,600 for most sectors (SGD 6,200 for the financial sector). Your employer can use MOM’s EP self-assessment tool on the MOM website to gauge eligibility ahead of submitting a formal application.

Is there a retirement visa for Singapore?

Singapore does not offer a dedicated retirement visa. Retirees hoping to stay long-term in Singapore typically need to qualify through family ties (as the spouse or parent of a Singapore citizen or PR), via the PR system, or through the Global Investor Programme if they can satisfy the investment threshold. Seek guidance from a qualified immigration professional to assess your individual circumstances.

How long can I stay in Singapore on a visit pass once I arrive?

Your permitted length of stay in Singapore is not determined by your visa validity — it is set by the duration of the Visit Pass (e-Pass) issued at the entry checkpoint upon arrival. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) extension. Overstaying is treated as a criminal offence in Singapore and must be avoided.

Can my spouse work in Singapore if they hold a Dependant’s Pass?

Dependant’s Pass holders are not automatically entitled to work in Singapore. Once they have received a job offer, they may apply for a Letter of Consent, which, if granted, permits them to work or run a business. A Letter of Consent is required for any Dependant’s Pass or LTVP holder wishing to take up employment or operate a business in Singapore.

When can I apply for permanent residence in Singapore?

The PTS scheme — the primary route for working expats — is open to foreign professionals currently employed under an Employment Pass or EntrePass who have been resident in Singapore for at least two years. While a formal application can technically be lodged after 6 months, the majority of successful applicants have lived and worked in Singapore for at least 1–2 years to build a solid track record. Submit your application through the ICA’s e-PR system.

What happens if my PR application is rejected?

There is no guaranteed entitlement to PR status in Singapore, and all decisions are made entirely at the government’s discretion. There is no formal appeals process, but a rejection is not a permanent bar — you may reapply after taking steps to strengthen your profile, such as increasing your economic contribution, building deeper community connections, or extending your period of residence. If you are uncertain how to proceed, consult a qualified Singapore immigration lawyer for advice.