Singapore Visa for Indonesians

Indonesian passport holders are visa-exempted to visit Singapore for short stays. Travelers do not need a Singapore tourist visa but must carry a valid travel document such as a passport. Singapore Immigration authorities allow Indonesians a visa-free stay for up to 30 days in the city-state.

For visits longer than 30 days and non-tourism purposes, Indonesian visitors should consult the Singapore embassy for visa requirements. Please note that Indonesian tourists will need to apply for an SG Arrival Card, which is a compulsory document.

ASEAN Membership: A Bridge

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional organization that unites diverse countries to discuss economic and security issues. Both Singapore and Indonesia are members of ASEAN. Singapore allows all ASEAN members, including Indonesia, visa-free access for 30 days.

Ten Southeast Asian nations make up this association:

• Brunei
• Cambodia
• Indonesia
• Laos
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• the Philippines
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam

SG Arrival Card versus a Singapore Tourist Visa

A Singapore Arrival Card for Indonesians will be needed for entry. It is a mandatory pre-entry pass, and all visitors must apply for it.

Indonesian travelers can visit Singapore for up to 30 days without needing a tourist visa.

Singapore Student Pass for Indonesians

Singapore universities are called Institutes of Higher Learning (IHL). Please note a student visa is called a student pass in Singapore.

Indonesians will need a student permit if they are an overseas student in Singapore. They must also apply if they are planning to enroll in any academic program lasting longer than 30 days.

Young Indonesians Prefer Singapore Citizenship

According to the news reports, between 2019 and 2022, close to four thousand Indonesians secured Singapore passports. The majority of these individuals were students aged between 25 and 35.

Increasing Trend: Indonesians Securing Singapore Citizenship

Many young Indonesians are opting for Singapore citizenship. They are lured by scholarships and better job opportunities. Some reasons are as follows:

• Efficient commuting: Singapore offers an efficient public transport system.
• Life Quality: The overall lifestyle and opportunities are attractive.
• Career Opportunities: The city-state offers better career options.

Some Indonesians opt for Permanent Residency in Singapore due to a skills mismatch in their home country. For this, young Indonesians apply for scholarship programs and take the student visa route to Singapore.

The Allure of a Powerful Passport and Better Life

Singapore also offers Indonesians (who choose to become Permanent Residents) the following:

• A Powerful Passport
• A Thriving Job Market
• Modern healthcare facilities
• World-class public transport
• Higher average Monthly salary

This is why many Indonesians choose to apply for work visas ( known as Work Passes) in Singapore after finishing their studies.

Indonesia’s Concern Over Talent Migration

Indonesia is alarmed by the potential brain drain as its skilled citizens migrate to Singapore. Those who wish to work in Singapore, however, should secure a work visa.

The Attraction for Indonesian Students

Singapore universities actively recruit from Indonesia’s top schools. These students often:

• Start with a Student Pass: Initially, students from Indonesia secure a student visa.
• Transition to Permanent Residency: Post their studies, they find jobs and often settle in Singapore.

Conclusion

Singapore visas for Indonesians are available if they wish to work and study. However, Indonesians do not require a tourist visa, but they must apply for an SG Arrival Card. In essence, for short-term visits of less than 30 days, Indonesians do not require a Singaporean tourist visa.

However, visitors aiming for long-term stays should explore the Singapore visa options available for Indonesians by contacting the nearest Embassy.