Singapore Visa for Indian Citizens

Indian citizens need a tourist visa as well as a mandatory SG Arrival Card to enter Singapore if they hold travel documents issued by India. However, it is worth noting that diplomatic, official, and service passport holders are visa-exempt.

Indian tourists were the second-highest number to visit Singapore in 2022, according to the Singapore Tourism Board. To get more detailed information on Singapore visas for Indian citizens, it is advised to consult with the embassy.

Is a Singapore Visa Required

Yes, Indian citizens require a Singapore visa if they plan to visit the nation. Without an entry visa, visitors from India cannot enter Singapore or traverse its borders.

Moreover, airlines might not permit passengers from India to board a flight to Singapore if they lack the necessary visa. While some citizens from other countries enjoy visa-free access to Singapore, this privilege doesn’t extend to Indians.

Visa on Arrival in Singapore

No, Indians are not eligible for the visa-on-arrival option in Singapore. As a result, Indian passport holders must have a valid visa to enter the nation.

Identifying the Type of Visa Needed

The initial step in the Singapore Visa application process for any Indian traveler is identifying the specific visa type desired. Given the array of Singapore Visa options available to Indians, this can be somewhat confusing.

Hence, Indian travelers going to Singapore must first determine a visa type based on the purpose of their trip. Thereon, they can gather the documents required to apply for the specific visa. To learn more, they can check with the embassy.

Types of Singapore Visas Available for Indian Citizens

The initial step in the Singapore Visa application process is identifying the specific visa type required. Given the array of Singapore Visa options available to Indians, this can be somewhat perplexing.

Singapore Tourist Visa

Indian tourists are eligible for a Singapore Tourist visa. The conditions are as follows:

• a maximum stay of up to 30 days on a Singapore Tourist Visa
• The embassy grants this visa with a 2-year validity.
• it permits multiple entries.

This implies that for each visit to Singapore within these two years, Indians don’t need to reapply for a visa.

Visa Approval

For visa approval, there are basic conditions that Indian applicants need to fulfill:

• Possession of original passport that remains valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of arrival in Singapore.
• Demonstration of sufficient funds in the bank account to support their stay in the country.

Singapore Tourist Visa Application Procedure: Embassy Visa

Indian passport holders applying for a regular Singapore Tourist Visa from the embassy must follow the below-mentioned guidelines:

• Form Download & Completion: Download the Singapore Tourist Entry Visa form (14-A) online and fill out the necessary details.
• Passport Validity: Ensure the passport meets the required validity criteria of 6 months.
• Air Tickets: Attach the confirmed flight tickets along with the visa application.
• Covering Letter: Draft a letter outlining the purpose, dates, and travel locations. Address this to "The Embassy of Singapore."
• Financial Proof: For first-time Indian visitors, bring income tax and bank statements from the last three years as financial documents.
• Address Verification: Present proof of residence. If the current address differs from the one on the passport, documentation for both is necessary.
• Hotel Bookings: Include confirmed hotel booking details for the stay in Singapore.
• Visa Fees: After compiling and submitting all required documents, either online or in person, proceed to pay the visa application fee.

Wait patiently for visa processing and subsequent confirmation. Once it is approved, they can proceed to apply for Singapore Arrival Card or SGAC (entry pass). It must be done three days prior to arrival in Singapore.

Regular Visa Processing Time

Typically, the Singapore Tourist Visa processing duration spans 3-4 days. Indian travelers should apply at least 7 days in advance, considering working days, before their planned travel.

However, it is better to apply for a Singapore visa at least a month from the date of intended travel.

Applying for a Regular visa at a Singapore Overseas Mission

Indians need to submit visa applications at the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or through its authorized visa agent. For detailed visa application procedures, visitors from India should visit the website of the specific Singapore Overseas Mission they’re interested in.

It’s advisable to apply for the visa roughly 30 days before the intended arrival in Singapore. A non-refundable processing fee of 30 SGD is payable online with a Visa or MasterCard credit/debit card.

eVisa for Singapore

Indians are eligible to apply for Singapore eVisa. However, it’s a little tricky. If an Indian traveler chooses to apply online, they must do it through a local contact in Singapore.

The Singapore government has authorized travel agencies, visa agents, and strategic partners to submit visa applications. They can apply for a visa on your behalf via SAVE (Submission of Application for Visa Electronically). Please note SAVE is available on the ICA (Immigration & Checkpoints Authority).

Applying for eVisa in Singapore

Indians can apply for visas online using the e-Service, with the help of a partner or contact in Singapore. Apply for an entry visa around 30 days before planned arrival in Singapore.

Singapore Student Visa For Indians

A student visa is called a Student Pass in Singapore. Indian students interested in applying for Student Pass must follow the below-mentioned guidelines:

Student Pass Application Process for Indian Students

• Getting Admission: First, receive a confirmation letter from a Singapore institute. Then, apply for a Student Pass.
• Institution’s Role: The educational institutes in Singapore typically submit the Student Pass application on behalf of Indian students. They submit the application to the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (ICA).
• Waiting Period: The usual processing time for the Singapore Student Pass is between 2 to 3 weeks.
• Proof of sufficient funds: Indian students applying must present proof of funds. It should be at least one day old from the visa application date.

Necessary Documents

For a Singapore Student Visa ( Student Pass), Indian students must provide the following documents:

• International student application form
• Valid passport
• A recent passport-sized photo (taken within the last 6 months)
• Visa application fee receipt
• Original bank statements from the last 28 days for all sponsors
• Academic transcripts (from 10th grade up to the most recent degree)
• Affidavit of Support from the sponsor (on a non-judicial Rs.20 stamp paper)
• Work experience certificate (if applicable)
• Fixed Deposit Receipts (if relevant)
• Bank loan sanction letter (if relevant)
• Additional Document

It’s advisable to start the application process a minimum of 2 months prior to the course start date. If any document isn’t in English, provide both an official translation and the original.

Processing Time for the Student Pass

The typical processing duration ranges from 15 days up to a month. Applicants should check for updates from the Embassy of Singapore in India and apply early due to possible delays.

Singapore EntrePass: Business Visa for Indians

The EntrePass is a business visa allowing suitable Indian entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors to establish and run new businesses in Singapore.

Eligibility Criteria for Business Visa

Indians applying for a Business Visa must adhere to the following guidelines:

Company Requirements: Applicant must have or be planning to set up a private limited company registered with Singapore’s ACRA.

Age Requirement: Indian entrepreneurs must be at least 21 years old.

Ownership: He/ she must hold at least 30% of company shares.

Application Timeline: Indian applicants can apply prior to starting the business or within six months of its registration.

If already registered, the company shouldn’t exceed six months in age at the application date.

Business Visa Requirements for Indian Applicants

• Secured funding from a government-accredited VC or business angel (minimum SGD 100,000).
• Holds a nationally recognized licensed IP.
• Possesses significant business experience or a record of starting scalable businesses.
• Associated with a government-registered incubator/accelerator.

Some businesses like coffee shops, bars, massage parlors, traditional medicine outlets, and employment agencies cannot be started on this visa.

Required Documents for Singapore Business Visa

• Valid passport.
• EntrePass application form.
• Passport-sized photo must have a white background
• Personal particulars from passport
• Previous employment proofs in English
• A concise business plan (10 pages max). It must detail employment history, skills, services/products offered, financial plans, market analysis, and relevant legal documents.
• Additional supporting documents like product certifications.

Validity and Renewal

The EntrePass is valid for one year. Further, it can be renewed annually. The business’s progress needs validation after the first year for renewal.

After meeting renewal criteria, each subsequent renewal lasts 2 years. Renewal applications should commence 3 months before expiry. Applications generally take up to seven weeks, excluding weekends and public holidays.

If the business closes, the EntrePass must be canceled and returned within a week.

Do Indians Require a Transit visa to enter Singapore

Indian passengers arriving at Singapore Changi Airport can wait in the transit area until their connecting flight is ready to leave. This is possible if they have received onward boarding passes.

Passengers can stay in the transit area if they get their boarding permits from any Transfer Lounge in that area. Indian travelers on a Low-Cost Carrier must go through immigration. They also need to get their boarding permits in the Departure Check-in Hall.

96-Hour Visa-Free Transit Facility

Indian visitors are eligible for the 96-hour Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF). It applies to citizens from the Commonwealth of Independent States, Georgia, India, China, Turkmenistan, and Ukraine.

Entry Requirements for VFTF

While transit travelers might fit the VFTF ( Visa- Free Transit Facility) criteria. However, it’s crucial that Indian travelers transiting Singapore satisfy prevailing entry requisites to gain admission. Entry evaluation is performed by Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officials upon arrival.

Stay Extension: It’s important to note that an extension of stay for Indian travelers on the VFTF is strictly prohibited.

Guidelines for Indian Nationals

Nationals from India transiting through Singapore may qualify for the 96-hour VFTF if they adhere to the following conditions:

• Arrive in Singapore using any transportation mode but depart strictly via air or sea.
• Possess a valid onward ticket (air/ferry/cruise), ensuring departure from Singapore within the 96-hour window.

Indian travelers who have a valid visa or long-term pass granted by certain countries can enter Singapore under VFTF. The visa or pass should be valid for at least one month from the date of entry. The countries are as follows:

• Australia
• Canada
• Germany
• Japan
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States of America

Time Required for Processing

Indians should note that the visa application will be handled in three business days (excluding the day it is submitted). Some applications may take longer to process than others. Every visa application will be evaluated on its own merits.

If the application is approved, the local contact, strategic partner, or authorized visa agent can print a copy of your e-Visa for the Indian applicant using the e-Service.

Importance of Travel Insurance

Securing travel insurance is a wise decision for Indians going to Singapore for leisure. It offers peace of mind, ensuring that unforeseen hiccups don’t disrupt relaxation and enjoyment. A comprehensive travel insurance policy provides support in instances where travelers from India might feel lost or overwhelmed.

Below are ways in which travel insurance will prove beneficial for Indian nationals going to Singapore:

• Medical Emergencies and Accidents
• Loss of Valuables and Documents
• Misplacing crucial items, such as passports, is a possibility
• Pre-existing Medical Conditions
• Trip Cancellations and Delays

Conclusion

For Indians seeking entry into Singapore, obtaining the appropriate visa and SG Arrival Card is essential. Singapore offers various visa options to cater to different purposes, such as tourism, business, or education. Proper documentation, adherence to eligibility criteria, and understanding of the application process are crucial for a smooth visa application.

Hence, travelers must consult with the embassy for additional details on the Singapore visa for Indian citizens.By being well-prepared and informed, Indian nationals can enjoy hassle-free entry into Singapore, making the most of their stay in this dynamic city-state.