Do I need a visa for Singapore? Your complete 2025 guide

Before packing your bags for Singapore, it’s important to check if you need a visa. Your nationality determines whether you can enter visa-free or need to apply in advance. Some travelers can stay for weeks without a visa, while others must secure one before arrival.

If you’re transiting through Singapore, you might qualify for the Visa-Free Transit Facility, which allows short stopovers without a visa. The rules depend on your passport, and overstaying could lead to fines or travel restrictions.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Singapore’s visa policy, helping you plan with confidence.

Who needs a visa to enter Singapore?

Visa requirements for Singapore depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Many travelers can enter without a visa, while others must apply in advance. Checking your status ahead of time helps you avoid unnecessary delays at immigration.

Countries that require a visa for Singapore

If you hold a passport from one of the following countries, you’ll need to apply for a visa before your trip:

Certain travel documents also require a visa, including:

• Refugee travel documents (subject to assessment)
• Alien passports (subject to assessment)
• Palestinian passports
• Temporary passports issued by the United Arab Emirates
• Documents of identity issued by Hong Kong SAR
• Travel permits issued by Macao SAR
• Travel documents issued by the People’s Republic of China

Short-term vs. long-term visit passes

Short-term visit pass

A short-term visit pass (STVP) is issued at the point of entry to eligible visitors who intend to visit Singapore for a short stay, like tourists and those traveling for a social visit or medical treatment. The length of stay depends on nationality:

• Up to 30 days for most travelers
• Up to 90 days for passport holders from select countries, including the U.S., UK, and EU nations

This pass does not permit work or business activities.

Long-term visit pass

For extended stays, whether for business, study, or visiting family, a long-term visit pass (LTVP) is required. This typically applies to:

• **Spouses and children of Singapore citizens or permanent residents
• **Foreigners seeking medical treatment in Singapore
• **Individuals working under specific visa categories

Long-term visas often require a sponsor from a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident.

It’s important to note that an STVP and LVTP are different from a visa. While a visa is a pre-entry requirement for nationals of certain countries, these passes determine the actual length of stay permitted.

iVisa travel hack: Long layovers at Changi Airport don’t have to be boring. Travelers with at least 5.5 hours can join the Changi Free Singapore Tour, which covers highlights like Marina Bay Sands and Kampong Glam. Signing up right after landing increases the chances of securing a spot before they fill up.

Who can travel visa-free to Singapore?

Many travelers can visit Singapore without a visa, but the length of stay depends on nationality. If you're planning a trip, it’s important to know how long you can stay and what’s required for entry.

• Up to 90 days: For nationals from the USA, the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, and all European Union member states.

• Up to 30 days: For citizens of ASEAN countries (except Myanmar) and most African countries, including Kenya and South Africa.

Visa-free entry doesn’t guarantee automatic admission. Immigration officers may ask for documents to confirm your travel plans, so it’s best to have the following:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.
• A confirmed return or onward ticket showing your departure from Singapore.
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses during your visit.
• A completed SG Arrival Card, which must be submitted electronically up to three days before arrival.
• Any required entry documents (visas or permits) for your next destination.

Types of Singapore visas

Here’s a breakdown of the main visa types.

Singapore eVisa

This electronic visa was introduced to simplify the application process for travelers to Singapore. Instead of obtaining a physical visa sticker, approved applicants receive an electronic version that can be printed and presented upon arrival in Singapore. The application is submitted online by a local contact in Singapore or an authorized visa agent.

Nationals from specific countries, including India, Myanmar, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (e.g., Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia), are eligible to apply for the eVisa.

Singapore embassy visa

The traditional embassy visa involves submitting a physical application to a Singapore Overseas Mission or through authorized visa agents. Upon approval, a visa sticker is affixed to the applicant's passport.

Travelers from countries that are not eligible for the eVisa or those who prefer the traditional application method can opt for the embassy visa.

Singapore Business Visa

This is mandatory for individuals visiting Singapore for business-related activities, such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations.

Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF)

This is for nationals from certain countries, including India and the People's Republic of China, who are in transit to or from another destination and meet specific requirements. Eligible travelers must be en route to a third country and can stay in Singapore for up to 96 hours under the VFTF.

iVisa pro tip: Tourists spending over SGD 100 in a single transaction at participating stores can claim a GST refund at Changi Airport. Using the electronic kiosks instead of waiting in long refund lines speeds up the process, leaving more time to relax or explore the airport before departure.

Documents needed to apply for a Singapore Visa

No matter what type of visa you’re applying for, you’ll need to submit:

• Completed visa application form (Form 14A): This must be filled out in English. Make sure all your details are accurate.
• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date. A clear copy of the biodata page is required.
• Recent passport-size photograph: A color photo (35mm x 45mm) taken within the last three months against a plain white background.
• Letter of introduction (Form V39A): Applicants from specific countries, like Bangladesh and Pakistan, need to provide a Letter of Introduction from a local contact in Singapore who is either a Singapore citizen or a permanent resident aged 21 or above.

Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your travel, extra documents may be needed:

• Tourist visa applicants require proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and proof that you can support yourself during your stay.

• Business visa applicants require an invitation letter from a Singaporean company and a letter from your employer confirming your position and the nature of your business trip.

• Student visa (Student Pass) applicants require an acceptance letter from a Singaporean school or university and financial documents proving you can cover tuition fees and living costs.

• Work visa (Employment Pass, S Pass, work permit) applicants require an employment contract from a Singapore-based company and copies of relevant qualifications like diplomas, degrees, or professional certifications.

• VFTF applicants require a confirmed onward ticket and a valid visa for the next destination if it’s required by the country you’re traveling to.

Can you extend your stay in Singapore?

If you need more time in Singapore, you may be able to extend your stay. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) e-Service allows eligible visitors to apply for an extension online. However, overstaying can lead to penalties, so it's important to understand the process and apply in time.

Visitors holding an STVP can apply for an extension of up to 30 days from their date of entry. Applications should be submitted up to 14 days before your current STVP expires.

If you have immediate family members who are Singaporean citizens or permanent residents, you may be eligible for an extension of up to 89 days. A local sponsor with a Singpass account is required in such cases.

Overstaying penalties and fines in Singapore

Overstaying is taken seriously under the Singapore Immigration Act of 1959 and penalties are strictly enforced.

• For overstays of up to 90 days: You may face a fine of up to SGD 4,000 (approximately USD $2,900), imprisonment for up to six months, or both.

• For overstays beyond 90 days: This is considered a more severe offense, punishable by imprisonment of up to six months and a minimum of three strokes of the cane for male offenders.

In addition to fines and imprisonment, overstaying can affect future visa applications and lead to deportation and a travel ban to Singapore for a period of time.

How to apply for a Singapore eVisa

Applying for a Singapore eVisa doesn’t have to be complicated. With our service, 99% of applicants get their visa approved on the first try. Our process makes it easier by guiding you every step of the way.

[IMAGE]

Here’s how it works:

1. Visit our website or download the iVisa app to begin. Enter your personal and travel details.

2. Make sure all information is correct before paying the visa and service fees using a credit/debit card, PayPal, or Venmo.

3. Upload the necessary documents and complete your application.

Once your eVisa is approved, you’ll receive it via email. Print a copy and save a digital version on your phone before traveling.

"I’ve dealt with visa applications before and they can be so confusing. I used iVisa for my Singapore eVisa, and it was really easy. I like that they reviewed before submitting and caught a mistake I made. Got my eVisa on time, no issues at the airport." – Arman H, Armenia

Singapore customs regulations: What you can and cannot bring

When traveling to Singapore, it's important to be aware of customs regulations for a smooth entry into the country. Singapore's drug laws are among the strictest globally. Penalties for offenses involving controlled drugs can be severe, including long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, and in certain cases, the death penalty. Let’s take a brief look at permitted and prohibited items:

Prohibited items:

• Chewing gum: Importing chewing gum is generally prohibited, with exceptions for certain types approved by the Health Sciences Authority.

• Tobacco products: Items such as chewing tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and shisha are not allowed.

• Controlled drugs: Any substances listed under the Misuse of Drugs Act are strictly prohibited. This includes cannabis and its derivatives, codeine, and benzodiazepines.

• Seditious and treasonable materials: Items that could incite unrest or challenge national security are banned.

Controlled items

Certain goods require prior authorization or permits from relevant authorities before they can be brought into Singapore:

• Telecommunication equipment: Devices like scanning receivers and radio-communication jamming devices need approval from the Info-communications Media Development Authority.

• Endangered species products: Items derived from endangered wildlife require permits from the National Parks Board.

• Arms and ammunition: Importing weapons or related materials necessitates authorization from the appropriate authorities.

Permitted items

Most personal items for daily use are allowed without special permission. However, it's advisable to check if any of your belongings fall under controlled categories.

If you're unsure about an item, declare it upon arrival to avoid potential penalties.

Need help?

Our customer service team is ready to assist with any questions you have about traveling to Singapore or the Singapore eVisa application process. Contact us any time via iVisa chat or WhatsApp.