Singapore and its visas: the complete guide to travel, study or work in the city-state

Singapore, a small but powerful city-state located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, is a true international crossroads where cultures, economies, and technologies converge. With an area of just 728 km² and a population of nearly 6 million inhabitants, it is one of the most dynamic financial and commercial centers in Asia. Its strategic position between Southeast Asia and the rest of the world makes it an essential destination for travelers, students, and professionals. Singapore dazzles with both its modern urbanism and futuristic skyscrapers and its historic neighborhoods, nature reserves, and cultural diversity. The Chinese, Malay, Indian, and international communities coexist harmoniously, creating a real linguistic and culinary melting pot where English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil are all recognized as official languages.

Thanks to its reputation for safety, cleanliness, and political stability, Singapore attracts millions of tourists and professionals worldwide every year. The city-state is not only an economic hub but also a place for cultural and educational exchanges: its universities and academic institutions welcome international students, and its events and professional conferences make it a privileged networking platform. However, to visit, work, or study in Singapore, it is essential to understand the visa system, which varies depending on the purpose and length of stay. Local authorities have set up precise regulations to manage immigration while facilitating access for qualified people, entrepreneurs, and tourists.

Singapore offers a wide range of visas adapted to the needs of travelers, workers, and students: the Visit Pass for tourist stays, the Business Pass for short-term professionals, the Student Pass for foreign students, as well as various work permits such as the Employment Pass, the S Pass, and the EntrePass for entrepreneurs and qualified professionals. Family members can also benefit from specific passes such as the Dependant Pass or the Long-Term Visit Pass, while young people from certain countries can take advantage of the Work Holiday Pass to combine work and travel. Finally, those wishing to settle permanently may consider the status of Permanent Resident.

Understanding how visas work is essential to preparing a smooth and legally compliant stay in Singapore. This practical guide, based on reliable and updated information, will help you explore all available options and choose the visa best suited to your plans, whether for tourism, study, work, or investment.

Filling out the entry form correctly (SG Arrival Card)

2026 Updated Guide: Entering and Living in Singapore

The major changes for 2026 involve the nationwide expansion of passport-less biometric entry (the "Single Token" system) and the updated salary thresholds for the Employment Pass following the 2025 adjustments.

Completing the Entry Form (SG Arrival Card)

All visitors must provide accurate and complete information. Before traveling to Singapore, all travelers must complete the SG Arrival Card, a mandatory online entry form.

• 2026 Update: The system is now fully integrated into the "Passport-less Clearance" program. Once the SG Arrival Card is submitted, most travelers arriving at Changi Airport can clear immigration via facial and biometric recognition without presenting a physical passport at the automated lanes (though a physical passport remains mandatory for international travel).

• Submission: The form must be submitted at least 3 days before arrival. For families and groups, each individual must complete their own card.

• Official Link: SG Arrival Card – Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

Comprehensive Visa Guide for Singapore

Tourist Visa (Visit Pass)

The Visit Pass is issued to visitors for tourism or family visits.

• Duration: 30 to 90 days depending on nationality.

• 2026 Requirements: Automated lane clearance is now the standard for almost all nationalities upon arrival, provided the SG Arrival Card has been completed.

• Official Link: Visit Pass - ICA

Business / Short-term Stay Visa (Business Pass)

Intended for meetings and conferences. It does not allow for employment with a local employer.

• Official Link: Visa Application - Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA)

Employment Pass (EP): The Professional Passport

The Employment Pass is designed for managers, executives, and specialists.

• 2026 Salary Criteria: The minimum salary requirement has been maintained or slightly indexed for inflation compared to 2025. It remains fixed at a minimum of SGD 5,600 per month for general sectors and SGD 6,200 for the financial sector. This amount increases progressively with the candidate's age (up to over SGD 10,700 for candidates aged 45 and older).

• COMPASS System: The points-based framework (Qualifications, Salary, Company Diversity, Support for Local Employment) is stricter in 2026 to ensure alignment with market needs.

• Official Link: Employment Pass - Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

S Pass

Designed for mid-level skilled staff.

• 2026 Minimum Salary: The salary threshold has stabilized at approximately SGD 3,150 (higher in the financial sector) to reflect the current cost of living.

• Quotas: Companies remain subject to a strict quota (Dependency Ceiling Ratio).

• Official Link: S Pass - MOM

EntrePass

For entrepreneurs creating innovative tech or venture-backed startups.

• Official Link: EntrePass - MOM

Dependant Pass (DP)

For spouses and children of EP or S Pass holders.

• Sponsor Salary Requirement: The main pass holder must earn at least SGD 6,000 per month.

• Work Authorization: Since 2021, DP holders wishing to work must obtain their own work permit (EP, S Pass, or LOC for business owners); a "Letter of Consent" is no longer sufficient for standard salaried employment.

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

For parents or common-law spouses.

• Sponsor Salary Requirement: Minimum SGD 6,000 per month (or SGD 12,000 to sponsor parents).

• Official Link: LTVP - ICA

Work Holiday Pass (WHP)

For students and young graduates aged 18 to 25 (or 30 for certain countries).

• Note: Quotas for 2026 are limited. It is highly recommended to apply as soon as the application windows open.

• Official Link: Work Holiday Pass - MOM

Student Pass

For full-time students at recognized institutions.

• 2026 Update: Verification procedures for foreign degrees have been strengthened and are now largely automated via digital verification platforms.

• Official Link: Student Pass - ICA

Permanent Resident (PR)

Permanent residency is the gateway to citizenship. In 2026, the focus is placed on social integration and long-term economic contribution.

• Official Link: Becoming a Permanent Resident - ICA

Conclusion

By 2026, Singapore has completed its transition to a "contactless" border. The key to a successful stay lies in digital preparation: fill out your SG Arrival Card meticulously and ensure your employer has validated your COMPASS points for work permit applications.

Singapore remains one of the world's most dynamic hubs, combining cutting-edge technology with rigorous administration.

FAQ – Visas and Residence Permits in Singapore

1. What is a residence permit in Singapore?

A residence permit is an official document that allows a foreign national to legally reside in Singapore for a specified period. It can take the form of an Employment Pass, Student Pass, Dependant Pass, or a resident card for individuals with permanent resident status.

2. Do I need a visa to enter Singapore?

Whether a visa is required depends on your nationality and the duration of your stay. Some nationals do not need a short-stay or visitor visa and receive a temporary residence permit upon arrival. For longer stays, such as studying or working, it is essential to obtain a long-stay visa before arrival.

3. How can I obtain a visa for Singapore?

To apply for a visa, you can contact the nearest Singapore embassy or consulate. You must complete an official form, provide a photocopy of your ID card or passport, and attach all required documents. Visa applicants must submit a complete application to avoid rejection.

4. What is the validity period of a visa?

The duration of validity depends on the type of visa. A short-stay visa may last a few weeks, while a long-stay visa, such as a student visa or work visa, can be valid for several months to multiple years. Always check the validity period on your official document.

5. What is a residence card or resident permit?

A residence card or resident permit is issued to temporary or permanent residents to prove their right to live and work in Singapore. Foreign workers, students, and family members of pass holders can obtain this document according to their status.

6. How do I submit a visa application?

To submit an application, prepare your file with all required documents: valid passport, photocopies, invitation or acceptance letters, proof of resources, and, if necessary, a medical certificate. Consulates or consular services will then process your application to issue a temporary visa, visitor visa, or work visa.

7. What is a Schengen visa and is it valid for Singapore?

A Schengen visa allows travel within the European Economic Area, but it does not replace a Singaporean visa. Nationals requiring a short-stay visa for Singapore must obtain a visitor visa or temporary visa from a local consulate or embassy.

8. Who can obtain a student visa or work visa?

Student visas are for foreign nationals enrolled in accredited institutions. Work visas are for qualified workers with a job offer in Singapore. In both cases, the temporary resident must obtain an official residence permit before arrival.

9. What about asylum in Singapore?

The right to asylum in Singapore is very limited. Applicants must present themselves to the competent authorities and follow the consular or administrative procedure to obtain temporary resident status while awaiting a decision.

10. Practical tips for obtaining a visa

• Always check visa requirements and required documents with your consulate or embassy.

• Provide clear photocopies of your ID card and passport.

• Respect the validity period and duration of validity of your visa.

• For foreign nationals, ensure you have the correct type of visa for your stay (tourism, work, or study)