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Singapore Visa Processing Time: Everything You Need to Know

Last Update: 18-08-2024

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

⚡Quick Summary

Types of Singapore VisaProcessing time

Singapore tourist visa processing time

3 to 5 working days

Singapore business visa processing time

3 to 5 working days

Singapore work visa processing time

1 week

Singapore student visa processing time

2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completion of formalities.

Table of Contents


  1. Introduction
  2. Singapore Visa Processing Time
  3. How to Check Status for a Singapore Visa?
  4. Common Difficulties Faced While Checking the Processing Time of the Singapore Visa
  5. Final thoughts
  6. FAQs

Introduction

Understanding the Singapore visa processing time is essential for a Singapore trip. Whether you're planning to apply for a Singapore tourist visa or a Singapore business visa, knowing the visa requirements and expected timeline for the application can make the process smoother. If you are preparing to apply for a visa, you'll need to gather the following documents and meet specific criteria.


The process of obtaining a visa to enter Singapore involves several steps, and your visa application must be carefully prepared to avoid delays. You need to ensure all documents are valid for at least six months from the date of submission. Additionally, understanding common difficulties that applicants face can help you navigate the system more effectively.


To get a Singapore visa, it's crucial to be informed and proactive. This blog will cover everything you need to know about applying for a Singapore visa, including the necessary documents, processing times, and tips for a smooth application process. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure a hassle-free entry into Singapore.

Singapore Visa Processing Time

The processing time for Singapore visa applications typically takes 3 to 5 working days, not including the date of submission, weekends, and public holidays. However, some applications may require a longer processing period. Read below to understand different processing times based on the type of visa:

Singapore Tourist Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Singapore tourist visa typically takes 3 to 5 working days.


A Singapore tourist visa is a document allowing visitors to enter Singapore for leisure, sightseeing, or social visits. Applicants can apply for a Singapore tourist visa online or through authorised agents, requiring a valid passport, a visa application form, a recent photo, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and flight tickets


Documents required for Singapore tourist  visa

  • Original passport with at least 6 months validity from travel date; old passport applicable only if you're from Chennai and Bangalore.
  • 3 Photographs: 35mm x 45mm with matt finish, 80% face coverage, white background and applicant’s ears must be visible.
  • Application Form: Signed on last page; cross-sign across photograph if you’re from Chennai and Bangalore only.
  • Bank Statement: Latest, not older than 3 days; e-copy is accepted.
  • Cover Letter: Trip details, signed; on company letterhead if you’re self-employed.
  • Flight Tickets: Proof of onward and return travel.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Confirmed hotel bookings or invitation letter from a friend/family.
  • Authorization Letter: Signed, leave other fields empty.
  • Residence Proof: Rent agreement or utility bills if  passport issue city differs from current city.

Singapore Business Visa Processing Time

The processing time for the Singapore business visa typically takes 3 working days (excluding the day of submission) 


A Singapore Business Visa is necessary for Indians intending to participate in business-related activities within Singapore, such as attending meetings, conferences, or engaging in negotiations.


Apart from mandatory documents like a passport and recent photographs, the additional documents required for a Singapore business visa are the following:

  • Copy of V39A form with the inviting company's stamp.
  • From the inviting company in Singapore.
  • Application Form 14A: Signed on the last page, cross-signed across the photograph (Chennai and Bangalore).
  • Bank Statement: Latest, not older than 3 days from the application date (e-copy accepted).
  • Cover Letter: Trip details, signed at the bottom; on the company letterhead if you are self-employed.
  • Flight Tickets: Proof of onward and return travel.
  • Confirmed hotel bookings or invitation letter from a friend/family.

Singapore Student Visa Processing Time

If an Indian is accepted for full-time studies at a Singapore educational institution, he/she must apply for a Singapore Student's Pass unless they hold a valid Dependant's Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass, Immigration Exemption Order, or Short-Term Visit Pass.


The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) issues Student's Passes in digital form only, replacing physical cards. After completing formalities at the ICA Building or school enrollment, pass holders receive an email (from no-reply@file.gov.sg) with instructions to retrieve the digital pass on the FileSG website. 


The digital Student's Pass can be accessed on the Singpass app after three working days or downloaded as a PDF or OA file from MyICA or FileSG once formalities are complete.


The requirements and procedures for a Student’s Pass vary slightly based on the type of educational institution you plan to attend. However, the mandatory common requirements for a Singapore student's visa are the following:

  • Registration Acknowledgement: Letter from the school you plan to attend.
  • Travel Document: Biodata page and birth certificate (if applicable).
  • Personal Information: List of previous residences, educational background, employment history, financial support.
  • Family Information: Personal details of parents, spouse, and/or siblings (if applicable).
  • Residential Address: Contact details in Singapore.
  • Email Address: Your email address.
  • Photograph: Recent, passport-sized, digital colour photo taken within the last three months; follow photo guidelines.
  • Vaccination Information: Foreign-born applicants aged 12 years or below must submit vaccination details to the Health Promotion Board (HPB) effective 1 February 2019. Visit the HPB website for more information.

Singapore Work Visa Processing Time

The Singapore visa processing time is typically one week. Once the application is submitted, the permit is issued immediately upon worker's arrival. The Work Permit card is then received within 5 working days after the worker has completed the fingerprint and photo registration or document verification.


Apart from mandatory documents like a passport and recent photographs, the additional documents required for a Singapore work visa are the following:

  • Employers must obtain written consent from the foreign employee before applying for a work pass. Written consent can be in the form of a signed employment contract. Verbal consent will not be accepted.
  • The applicant must have a job offer from an employer in Singapore.

Singapore Work Permit Card

A Singapore Work Permit Card is a physical card issued to holders of the Work Permit (WP). It serves as proof of the holder's eligibility to work in Singapore and contains essential information about the worker and employer.

Types of Singapore work permit card


Singapore Training Work Permit


A Training Work Permit allows Indians to undergo practical training in Singapore. 

The processing time for a Singapore training work permit card is as follows:

  • The employer submits an online application costing $35, with interim approval taking 1 working day and the final outcome within 3 weeks. 
  • Upon approval, the permit is issued immediately upon the trainee’s arrival. The Work Permit card is then delivered within 5 working days after completing fingerprint and photo registration or document verification.

Singapore Work Permit for migrant domestic worker (MDW) 


A Work Permit for a migrant domestic worker (MDW) allows families in Singapore to hire a foreign domestic helper to assist with household chores, childcare, or elderly care. The process involves applying online or through an employment agency, preparing for the worker's arrival, and getting the permit issued.


The processing time for a Singapore Work Permit for a Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW) is as follows:

  • The application takes 1 week via FDW eService or up to 3 weeks if you are  submitting a form. 
  • The costs are $35 for the application and $35 for permit issuance. 
  • The permit is issued within 2 weeks of the worker's arrival. 
  • The Work Permit card is delivered within 5 working days after fingerprint and photo registration or document verification.

How to Check Status for a Singapore Visa?

Check Singapore Visa Status with Teleport

If you have applied for a Singapore visa through Teleport, you can easily track your application's status with real-time updates via WhatsApp and email. Additionally, you can monitor your visa status directly from the Teleport Dashboard. Here's how:

  1. Access the Teleport Dashboard.
  2. Find 'Your Applications'.
  3. Click on your submitted application to view the current status.

Track Singapore Visa Status Using Government ICA Website

You can check your application status and print your e-Visa by following these steps:


  1. Visit Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
  2. On the ICA homepage, go to the 'e-Services and Forms' section and select 'Apply Entry Visa (Time needed: 15-20 mins).'
  3. Scroll down and click on 'Enquire Application Status.'
  4. Enter your 'Visa Reference Number' and 'Applicant's Travel Document Number.'
  5. Click 'Next' to view the enquiry results.

Common Difficulties Faced While Checking the Processing Time of the Singapore Visa

  • Lack of Real-Time Updates: The visa application system can sometimes lag, causing delays in getting updates on the status of your Singapore visa.
  • Complexity of the Application Process: Navigating the ICA website and understanding the requirements and procedures can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for first-time applicants.
  • Discrepancies in Information: Mismatched details between the application form and supporting documents can result in further delays.
  • Incomplete Submissions: Missing or incorrect documents can lead to prolonged processing times or even rejection of the application.
  • Communication Barriers: Non-native English speakers might struggle to understand the instructions and guidelines, leading to mistakes in the application process and further delays of the visa.
  • High Demand During Peak Seasons: The visa processing time can be longer than usual during peak travel seasons, causing frustration and anxiety for those awaiting their visas to enter Singapore.

Final thoughts

Understanding the Singapore visa processing time is crucial for anyone planning a trip to Singapore. Whether you  apply for a Singapore tourist visa, a Singapore business visa, or a Singapore student visa, it's essential to be aware of the necessary documents and potential challenges. If you encounter any issues, using platforms like Teleport or the ICA website can help streamline your visa application process.


Remember, you will need a valid visa to enter Singapore and meet all visa requirements before entry into Singapore. Being prepared with the following documents and understanding the Singapore visa  processing time will ensure a smoother experience. If you are unsure, you can always seek assistance from an authorised visa agent to help navigate the complexities of your application.


Ultimately, patience and thorough preparation are key to successfully obtaining a visa for Singapore. By staying informed and proactive, you can increase your chances of a hassle-free application process and enjoy all that Singapore has to offer.

FAQs

What is the Singapore visa processing time for Indians?

The processing time for a Singapore visa for Indian citizens is typically 3 to 5 working days for tourist and business visas. For work permits, it usually takes one week from the date of submission.

What is the Singapore study visa processing time?

The Singapore study visa processing time is usually  2 to 4 weeks, depending on completion of required formalities at the ICA Building or during school enrollment. After formalities are complete, the digital Student's Pass can be accessed on Singpass app within three working days.

How long does it take to get a Singapore tourist visa?

The processing time for a Singapore tourist visa generally takes 3 to 5 working days.

How can I get a Singapore visa fast?

Apply online through the ICA website or an authorised visa agent, ensuring all documents are complete and accurate.

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