Who Needs a Visa for Singapore

This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor. For current rules and requirements, see our guide on How to Apply for a Singapore Visa.

Before applying for a Singapore Visa, travellers must ensure they meet all Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) eligibility requirements.

This includes nationality-based entry rules, passport validity, purpose of travel, and evidence of financial means.

At Visa Applications, we review every applicant’s profile to confirm eligibility before submitting any visa request to ICA — ensuring only valid, compliant cases are filed.

Singapore requires entry visas for citizens of certain countries. The following applicants must obtain a visa before arrival:

• India
• China
• Russia
• Bangladesh
• Pakistan
• Nigeria
• Egypt
• Sri Lanka

Nationals from all other countries, including the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea — do not need a visa for short stays (up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality).

Visa Applications confirms visa requirements based on your nationality before starting your file.

General Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Singapore visa, applicants must meet the following core conditions:

• Hold a valid passport with at least six months’ remaining validity.
• Have a clear travel purpose (tourism, business, study, or dependent stay).
• Demonstrate adequate financial resources for the entire duration of stay.
• Provide evidence of confirmed travel and accommodation arrangements.
• Have no criminal or immigration violations in Singapore or other countries.
• Agree to comply with Singapore’s entry conditions and return or onward travel obligations.

Our advisors pre-check all eligibility points to prevent unnecessary delays or refusals.

Visa-Specific Eligibility Conditions

Tourist Visa

Applicants must show genuine intent to visit for leisure or family reasons, not work or study.
Proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, and financial evidence are mandatory.

Business Visa

Intended for business meetings, trade events, or short-term consultations.
Requires an invitation letter from a Singapore-based company registered with ACRA (Accounting & Corporate Regulatory Authority).

Employment Pass / Work Visa

Applicants must hold a valid job offer or contract from a Singapore-registered employer.
Employer sponsorship and Ministry of Manpower (MOM) approval are required.

Student Visa (Student Pass)

Applicants must be accepted into a full-time programme at a recognised Singapore institution.
Financial stability and tuition payment proof are mandatory.

Dependent / Family Visa

Dependents (spouse, children, or parents) must prove their relationship to the primary visa holder.
The main visa holder must earn sufficient income to support dependents.

Who Cannot Apply for a Singapore Visa

Applications are not accepted if:

• The applicant has previously been deported from Singapore or another ASEAN country.
• The passport is damaged, expired, or reported lost/stolen.
• The applicant cannot prove sufficient financial means or accommodation.
• The stated travel purpose is inconsistent with available documentation.

Visa Applications verifies all such conditions before submission to reduce risk of refusal.

Eligibility Verification Before Submission

Our pre-assessment service ensures applicants meet ICA criteria before their file is lodged:

• We check all eligibility points (passport, purpose, funds, sponsor).
• We confirm your visa requirement by nationality.
• We prepare ICA-compliant documentation before submission.

Common Reasons for Ineligibility

• Incorrect visa category selection.
• Unclear or unverified purpose of travel.
• Insufficient proof of funds or sponsor credibility.
• Discrepancies in travel history or prior refusals.

Our visa specialists resolve eligibility issues by preparing supporting evidence and letters of clarification for ICA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries enjoy visa-free entry for 30–90 days, but others must apply before travel.

Can Visa Applications check if I need a visa?
Yes. We verify your nationality and travel intent to confirm whether a visa is required and which type applies.

Can I apply if I previously overstayed?
Yes, but additional documentation and a letter of explanation may be required. We handle such cases professionally.

Do minors need a visa?
Yes, minors must apply individually. Parents or legal guardians must sign on their behalf.

Can my visa be refused even if I meet all criteria?
ICA reserves final discretion, but full compliance and correct documentation greatly reduce refusal risk.

About This Page

Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: December 2025.