Singapore Visa Status Check: Track your Application

Disclaimer: An arrival card is not a visa. It cannot be used as a substitute for a visa and does not grant permission to enter any country. Travelers are responsible for obtaining the appropriate visa, if required, prior to arrival. The arrival card is for administrative purposes only and does not serve as a travel authorization or entry permit.

Prepare to explore the wonders of Singapore, where every step reveals new adventures. Knowing your visa status is an essential part of planning your journey.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through a simple, step-by-step process for checking the status of your Singapore visa application. Keeping an eye on your application status helps in planning your trip effectively and ensures you're ready for the adventures that await in Singapore. Our guide is designed to provide all the necessary information minus the complexity. Let's begin your journey with confidence and excitement.

Requirements for a Singapore Visa status check

To check the status of your Singaporean visa, you need to have certain key details on hand. Here's what you'll typically require:

• Visa application reference number: This is a unique identifier for your visa application. It's typically a 14-digit number provided to you when you submit your visa application.

• Passport number: The passport number you used when applying for the visa. It's essential to use the same passport, as visa records are linked to specific passport numbers.

• Travel document number: If you didn't use a passport, you'll need your travel document number. This is required alongside the visa application reference number when checking your status.

Official Singaporean government channels for visa status verification

The official and most direct way to check your Singapore visa status is through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) Website. The ICA website offers an online platform to check the status of various types of applications, including visas. You'll need your visa application reference number and passport number for this.

You also have the option of contacting ICA directly. They can provide detailed information and guidance about your visa status and related issues. You can call +65 6391 6100 or complete the online inquiry form.

Online platforms for visa status check

Apart from using the ICA website, these are the other ways you can check your visa status online:

• iVisa: If you've applied for your Singapore visa through our website or iVisa app, we offer a straightforward way to track your application. Once your application is submitted, we'll create an account for you. You can log into this account anytime to check the status of your Singapore visa. You'll also receive updates directly in your email inbox. This ensures you're always informed about your application's current status without constantly checking the website.

• ICA e-Service: The ICA e-Service website lets you inquire about your visa application status online. You'll require the visa reference number and the applicant's travel document number to use this service.

Step-by-step guide: Checking your Singaporean visa status

Checking the status of your Singaporean visa is a straightforward process that can be done through the official ICA website and the ICA e-Service. Here's a simple guide to help you through it.

Using the ICA website

1. Start by visiting the official ICA website. On the homepage, look for the "e-Services" tab.

2. Under "e-Services," select "Visa Application Status Enquiry" from the drop-down menu.

3. You'll be directed to a page where you must choose the visa type you applied for. Select the one that matches your application.

4. Now, input your 14-digit Application ID and passport numbers. These details must be entered accurately to access your status.

5. Submit your details and the status of your visa application will be displayed on the screen.

Using the ICA e-Service

1. Access the ICA e-Service portal.

2. On the homepage, select “Enquire Application Status.”

3. Enter the reference number of the individual or family visa application. This is a unique identifier for your application. You'll also need to enter the travel document or passport number used during the visa application.

4. After correctly entering the application reference number and your passport/travel document number, submit your inquiry. The system will then display the current status of your visa application.

Types of Singapore Visa statuses

When you check the status of your Singapore visa application online, you may encounter various statuses. Each one indicates a specific stage of your application's processing:

• In Progress: This status means that your application is currently under review. The authorities are examining the documents and information you submitted.

• Approved: If you see this status, it's great news! Your application has been successful, and you're cleared for your trip to Singapore.

• Rejected: This status indicates that your application has been denied. Common reasons for rejection include missing information, unfulfilled eligibility criteria, errors in the application, or failure to meet financial requirements.

Common visa status issues

When checking the status of your Singaporean visa, you might encounter various issues. Here's a breakdown of some common problems and tips on addressing them:

1. Incomplete or error-filled application: This is one of the most preventable reasons for visa application issues. Ensure that all the details you provided are accurate and complete. This includes personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, and passport details. Any errors or inconsistencies can raise red flags.

2. Not meeting financial requirements: Most visa applications in Singapore require proof of sufficient funds. For example, Employment Pass applicants need to meet the minimum salary threshold. Ensure all financial documents are in order and meet the requirements specified by the ICA.

3. Adverse immigration history: Past visa violations, overstays, or deportations can negatively impact your application. Be upfront about any past immigration problems and provide explanations to help your case.

4. Not meeting the eligibility criteria: Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, such as good health, clean criminal records, and recognized qualifications for certain passes. Ensure you meet every single eligibility condition for your desired visa type.

5. Providing insufficient documents: A thorough collection of required documents is crucial. This includes completed application forms, passport biodata page, passport photos, educational certificates, financial statements, company support letters (if employed), marriage certificates (if applicable), and previous visas for Singapore.

6. No valid reason for extension or status change: Singaporean authorities require a valid reason for visa extensions or status changes. If you're studying or working, ensure you have documents to support your rationale for staying in Singapore longer.

7. Breaching conditions of current visa: Each visa and work pass comes with strict conditions you must adhere to. Failure to do so can cause rejection of your application or non-renewal of your visa.

8. Applying too early or too late: There are specific rules about when you can submit visa extension applications. Applications submitted too early or too late are likely to be rejected.

Understanding Singaporean visa types

Singapore offers a variety of visas, each tailored to different travel needs, whether for tourism, business, study, or work. Here's a breakdown of the main visa categories available:

1. Tourist Visa: Designed for Singapore tourists, this visa allows either single or multiple entries and is valid for 30 days, extendable for up to 60 days.

2. Business Visa: Intended for individuals traveling to Singapore for business-related activities. The requirements and validity period are similar to the tourist visa, with additional documentation related to the intended business purpose.

3. Social Visit Visa: For visitors who intend to meet friends or relatives in Singapore. This visa category often requires an invitation letter from the Singapore resident and proof of relationship.

4. Medical Visa: Specifically for individuals seeking medical treatment in Singapore. Applicants must provide a letter from the Singapore hospital where they'll receive treatment.

5. Student Visa: For international students accepted into an educational institution in Singapore. This visa is tied to the duration of the educational program.

6. Work Visa: There are various work visas like the Employment Pass, S Pass, and Work Permit, each catering to different skill levels and salary thresholds. These are primarily for individuals who have secured employment in Singapore.

7. Dependant's Visa: For family members (spouses and children) of individuals holding valid work visas in Singapore. The validity of this visa is tied to the main visa holder's employment.

8. Transit Visa: For travelers with layovers in Singapore en route to another destination. This visa is generally valid for 96 hours and requires an onward ticket.

Legal insights: Understanding the rights and responsibilities of visa holders in Singapore

Regardless of the purpose of your visit to Singapore, whether for work, study, or tourism, some universal rights and responsibilities apply to all visa holders. Awareness of these will ensure your stay in Singapore is lawful and enjoyable.

Universal rights of visa holders

• Fair treatment: All individuals in Singapore, including visa holders, are entitled to fair treatment under the law. This includes access to legal resources and protection against unlawful discrimination.

• Privacy and security: Your personal information and privacy are protected, and you have the right to live in a secure environment.

• Emergency assistance: In case of emergencies, you have the right to seek help from local authorities or your country's embassy or consulate.

Universal responsibilities of visa holders

• Adherence to visa conditions: It's crucial to comply with the specific conditions of your visa, including the duration of your stay, the purpose of your visit, and any work or study restrictions.

• Obeying local laws: As a visitor, you're subject to Singaporean laws and regulations. This includes following local customs, traffic rules, and public conduct standards.

• Financial self-sufficiency: You must have adequate funds to maintain yourself during your stay and shouldn't rely on public funds.

• Health and insurance: While not mandatory for all visas, it's advisable to have health insurance to cover any medical needs during your stay.

• Reporting changes: Inform the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of any significant changes, such as a new address, changes in marital status, or renewing your passport.

• Timely departure: You must leave Singapore before your visa expires unless you've legally extended your stay or have applied for a different visa status.

The importance of regular visa status checks

Keeping an eye on your visa status in Singapore isn't just about ticking a box; it's about making sure your stay is smooth and stress-free. Here's why it's so important to stay updated on your visa situation:

1. Planning your time: Knowing how much time you have left on your visa helps you organize your stay. Maybe you're in Singapore for a project, to study, or just to explore - whatever the reason, being clear on your visa's expiry date helps you manage your time effectively.

2. Adapting to changes: Sometimes, visa rules can change without much warning. Regularly checking your visa status lets you stay on top of these changes. This way, you're not caught off guard by new requirements or alterations in visa policies.

3. Staying on the right side of the law: It's all about following the rules. Your visa comes with certain terms and conditions, like not working if you're on a tourist visa. Keeping track of your visa status means you're aware of these conditions and can comply with them.

4. Emergency preparedness: In rare cases, you might need to leave Singapore quickly (think medical emergencies or urgent family matters). Knowing your visa status ensures you're prepared for such situations without worrying about complications.

Dealing with visa expiry, renewals, and overstays

Navigating issues related to Singaporean visas, such as expiry, renewal, and overstay, can be tricky. Here's what you need to know.

Visa expiry

When your Singapore visa is about to expire, and you wish to continue your stay, you should take action before the visa actually expires. Singaporean visas cannot be extended beyond their expiration date. If you wish to stay longer, you need to apply for a new visa. Doing this before your visa expires is important to avoid becoming unlawful in the country.

Visa renewal

In Singapore, there's strictly no extension of visa validity or change of visa type. You need to submit a fresh application upon the expiry or utilization of your current visa. Keep in mind that each application is assessed independently.

Visa overstays

Overstaying your visa in Singapore is a serious offense. If you've overstayed in Singapore for up to 90 days, you may be subject to a fine or prosecution in court. Overstaying beyond 90 days could result in imprisonment and other serious penalties. If you overstay and wish to leave, you should do so voluntarily and as soon as possible to avoid further complications.

Need more information?

If you have any questions about how to check your Singapore Visa status, please contact our customer service team who are ready to assist you, or email us at help@iVisa.