- Do Indians Need a Visa for Singapore?
- Types of Singapore Visas for Indian Citizens
- Documents Required for a Singapore Visa
- How to Apply for a Singapore Visa from India
- Singapore Visa for Indians: Common Questions Answered
- Mistakes to Avoid During Your Visa Application
- Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Singapore
- Final Thoughts
Planning to visit Singapore? You are not the only one.
In 2024, “Singapore welcomed about 16.5 million international visitors, marking an increase of 21% from 2023” ( Source: IndoConnect )
“Out of which 1.2 million were Indians, that is approximately equal to the entire population of a mid-sized Indian city” ( Source: Business Standard )
It’s easy to see why Singapore attracts millions every year – but before you dive into its futuristic skylines and world-class food, your journey begins with something more practical — your Singapore visa.
Getting a Singapore visa for Indians might seem confusing at once. But with a basic understanding of visa types and required documents, it becomes as simple a booking a train ticket.
This easy guide shares – visa types, their process, common mistakes and essential tips – so that your trip begins without any hassle.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Singapore?
Yes, except for the officials holding official or diplomatic passports, every Indian citizen requires a visa to travel to Singapore.
The visa acts as a short term entry pass of around 30 days, usually lasting for 2 years with multiple entries.
Take it as a membership card – once approved, you can visit as many times as you want during the valid period.
Exception case: Transiting only through Singapore for less than 96 hours, with confirming tickets of a third country might require a Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF).
Types of Singapore Visas for Indian Citizens
Requirements of visa types vary with varying needs and purposes of visits. Let’s explore those types:
Tourist Visa
This is the most popular go-to option. Whether for a family vacation, honeymoon, or a solo trip – the Singapore Tourist Visa is perfect for a visit of less than 30 days.
Business Visa
A Business Visa is suitable for a meeting, a business trip, or exploring trading opportunities. It allows one to attend business related events but denies any employment.
Think of it as a guest pass for business – you can attend, connect, but can’t work.
Student Visa (also known as a Student’s Pass)
Students who are admitted to Singapore universities must get a Student’s Pass from the Student’s Pass Online Application & registration (SOLAR).
Do you know? Around 30,000 students study in Singapore every year.
Work Visas
This consists – S Pass, an employment pass work permit. Distribution of these depends on salary and role.
For example, tech professionals joining firms apply for an employment pass.
Transit Visa
A Transit Visa is for travellers who have a connecting flight but want to explore Singapore City.
Documents Required for a Singapore Visa
Below are all the documents that are required for applying:
- Valid Passport (minimum 6 months of validity from entry date)
- Latest passport-size photograph
- Completed visa application form (Form 14A)
- Flight and hotel booking confirmations
- Purpose of the visit in a cover letter
- Bank statements
Tip: Use clear scanned copies and recheck every spelling – even a small typo can delay your visa.
How to Apply for a Singapore Visa from India
Singapore visas can’t be directly applied through an embassy.
Instead, you will have to consider an authorized visa agent such as OneVasco, Thomas Cook or MakeMytrip.
Submit your visa application through an authorized agent for a fee of around ₹1,800 to ₹2,000. Most of the visas are approved within 3 to 5 working days.
Singapore Visa for Indians: Common Questions Answered
Get to find answers to some important and common questions asked by other travellers:
Can I apply for a Singapore visa on my own?
No, the application must be passed through an authorized agent.
Do I need to book my flights before applying?
Yes, a confirmation is advised to strengthen your application.
How early should I apply?
Apply at least 2 weeks before your travel to avoid any last minute worry.
Can I get a visa on arrival in Singapore?
No, on arrival visa service is not provided to the Indian passport holders.
How long can I stay on a tourist visa?
Usually upto 30 days per entry.
Mistakes to Avoid During Your Visa Application
“Over 8% visa rejects for Indians due to mismatching details and document issues”.
Every simple mistake has the potential to reject your application. Go through the mistakes to avoid:
- Submitting blurry photographs.
- Mentioning impractical travel dates in forms.
- Late application (less than 5 days before travel).
- Preferring unauthorized agents.
Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Singapore
Get to know some pro tips for a smooth arrival in Singapore:
- Make sure to arrange your return tickets, hotel bookings and financial proof to show during immigration checks.
- Do not try to carry any restricted items to the airport – The laws are very strict.
- Arrange stay according to visa limits – overstaying can attract heavy fines.
Singapore’s airport is compared to a “well-run airport machine” – fast processes, efficient technologies and highly detail oriented.
Final Thoughts
Planning a trip to Singapore is exciting – getting a visa should not slow you down. With the right documents, the right visa type and an authorized visa agent like OneVasco, you can plan a smooth and hassle free travel. Get your visa sorted, pack your bags and get ready to say “Selamat Datang!” – Welcome to Singapore.
