Singapore Visa for Indians in 2024, Fees, Process & Documents Required
Are you seeking a budget-friendly international destination full of excitement, fun, and joy? Consider Singapore! Known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful green spaces, there’s plenty for tourists to see and do. Singapore Changi Airport is one of the largest in the world and is a tourist attraction.
Singapore is a fantastic destination for families, solo travelers, and young adventurers. Popular attractions include the Singapore Shopping Festival, the world’s giant indoor skydiving wind tunnel, various sports activities, and the National Art Museum, a paradise for art lovers.
Before discussing more attractions and travel plans, let’s discuss the Singapore visa for Indians.
Do Indians Need Visa for Singapore?
Yes, Indian citizens are required to have a visa to enter Singapore.
Is There a Visa on Arrival in Singapore for Indian Citizens?
No, the visa-on-arrival option in Singapore does not apply to Indian citizens. Therefore, Indian passport holders need a previously approved visa to visit the country. However, Indians traveling by air to or from a third country may be eligible for the 96-hour Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF).
Is Travel Insurance Mandatory for Singapore?
No, travel insurance for Indians traveling to Singapore isn’t compulsory yet. However, spending beyond your budget is the last thing you want on a holiday!
Moreover, travel insurance for Singapore would also cover you for adventure activities, such as the famous zip-lining adventure across the beautiful Sentosa island. It's always wise to have valid travel insurance to protect you against all odds.
Different Types of Singapore Visas for Indians and Their Validity
Eligibility Criteria for Singapore Visa for Indian Citizens
Eligibility for a Singapore Visa depends on the type of Singapore visa the traveler is applying for. However, to be eligible for a Singapore Visa, the candidate must fulfill the following criteria:
Valid Passport - You need to have a valid Indian passport that has been valid for at least six months from the date of your entry into the country.
Flight Tickets - You must have a flight ticket to Singapore and a return ticket to India.
Visa Requirements - You should meet all the requirements for a Singapore Visa.
- Sufficient Funds - You need to have enough money to ensure all payments related to the visa are made.
Documents Required for Singapore Tourist Visa for Indians
To apply for an entry visa for business or social visits, you will need the following documents:
Form 14A - Duly completed Form 14A signed by you. Your visa application shall be made based on the information declared in this form.
Photograph - Your recent passport-sized color photograph taken within the last three months. Please see photo guidelines for information on photo requirements.
Passport - A photocopy of the biodata page of your passport (valid for at least six months from entering Singapore).
Cover letter - A letter addressing the purpose of your visit and your request for a visa. The letter must include the following details:
Purpose of your trip
Date and time of your intended travel
How your trip is going to be funded
Your employment status
A complete itinerary for your trip
Total duration of the trip
Reasons if any required documents were not submitted with your application.
Letter of Introduction (LOI) - A completed Form V39A (Letter of Introduction for Visa Application (LOI)), which a local contact in Singapore may issue.
Flight Itinerary - Please make sure to have your outbound and return tickets, including the ticket or booking reference numbers and a detailed itinerary.
Hotel - Hotel booking confirmations or evidence of accommodation.
Financial Proof - Documentary proof, such as a bank statement confirming your monetary support for your stay in Singapore.
Additional supporting documents may be required on a case-by-case basis.
How to Apply for a Singapore Tourist Visa from India?
Applying for a Singapore visa involves several steps. Here's a general guide to help you through the process:
Determine the Type of Singapore Visa:
Determine the visa type you need based on your purpose of visit (e.g., tourist, business).
Prepare the Documents Required to Apply for Singapore Tourist Visa:
To apply for a Singapore visa, ensure you have a valid passport, complete the visa application form, provide passport-sized photos, show proof of travel arrangements and accommodation, and include financial statements to demonstrate sufficient funds for your stay. Having these documents ready will streamline your application process.
Submit a Singapore Visa Application from India:
To apply for a visa to Singapore, you have two options:
- Online - You can do it on the Singapore government agency website or get help from a visa agent.
- In-person - You can visit the nearest Singapore overseas mission or use a visa agent. Both methods are easy and convenient, so you can pick the one that works best for you.
Pay Singapore Tourist Visa Fees for Indians:
The visa fee varies depending on the type of visa and the processing time. The latest fee structure can be found on the official ICA website or through the visa agent.
Wait for Processing for Singapore Visa:
Visa processing times can vary, so applying well before your travel date is advisable. Once your visa is approved, you will be notified via email.
Receive Your Singapore Visa:
Once approved, you will receive an electronic visa (e-Visa) via email. Print a copy to carry with you when you travel.
What is the Processing Time for Singapore Tourist Visa for Indians?
The processing time for a Singapore tourist visa for Indians is 3-5 working days. This doesn’t include the day you submit it, weekends, or public holidays. Sometimes, it might take longer.
Singapore Visa Fees for Indian Citizens
The visa processing fee for each application is 30 Singapore dollars (SGD), and the service fee is ₹650 (INR). Both payments must be made when applying for the visa and are non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is approved or withdrawn after submission.
Additionally, please check with the authorized visa agent for any other administrative or miscellaneous fees that may apply. The visa processing fee in Indian Rupees is based on the Schedule of Consular Fees issued by the Consulate-General.
Things You Must Know Before Applying for a Singapore Visa from India
Form 14A should be filled out correctly and submitted in PDF format.
Two recent passport-sized photographs are required. The pictures should have been taken within the last three months and adhere to specific guidelines.
The passport should be valid for at least six months from your arrival date in Singapore.
The local Singaporean contact should be at least 21 years of age and older.
Carry a printout of your Singapore e-visa while traveling to Singapore.
Be aware of the applicable visa fees and ensure you pay them correctly.
Double-check all information provided on the application form to avoid inconsistencies and potential rejection.
It's also crucial to accurately fill out the application with all the required details to avoid rejection.
Consider obtaining travel insurance for your trip to Singapore.
List of Singapore Embassy, Consulate, and High Commission in India
List of High Commission in Singapore
What Happens If My Singapore Visa Application Is Rejected?
If your Singapore visa application is rejected, the authorities found you did not meet the requirements or criteria. However, this does not permanently bar you from visiting Singapore.
First, review the rejection notice to understand the reasons, including incomplete applications, insufficient funds, or travel history issues. You can appeal the decision within one month by emailing. If the appeal fails, you can reapply and address the initial problems. Consulting a visa agent or legal expert can also help improve your chances of approval.
How Can I Avoid Getting My Singapore Visa Application Rejected?
Here are some simple tips to avoid getting your Singapore visa application rejected:
Fill Out the Form Correctly:
Make sure your application is complete and accurate. Double-check all details, such as dates and names.
Valid Passport:
Your passport should be valid for at least six more months and have blank stamp pages.
Show Financial Stability:
Provide proof that you can support yourself financially, like bank statements or payslips.
Detailed Travel Plans:
Submit a clear travel plan that includes where you’ll stay and what you’ll do.
Address Past Rejections:
If rejected, explain why and provide extra documents to address concerns.
Disclose Criminal History:
If you have a criminal record, be honest and provide evidence of rehabilitation if needed.
Can I Extend My Singapore Visa While I'm in Singapore?
No, you cannot extend your stay in Singapore. You will have to renew your Singapore visa, so you will have to return to your country. A few nationalities can request an extension of stay. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority allows some countries to apply for a one-time 30-day extension of stay (extension of a short-term Visit Pass).
Why Should I Buy Singapore Travel Insurance?
It’s highly recommended that you get travel insurance when visiting Singapore. This can significantly reduce medical expenses if you need treatment or hospitalization abroad. Additionally, travel insurance offers various other benefits, such as:
Trip Cancellation:
If your trip is canceled before your insurance period starts, we'll reimburse you for the money spent on non-refundable expenses for the peril mentioned in the policy. You will be covered if you lose your passport due to burglary or theft or the government advises against travel.
Loss of Passport, Driving License, and Temporary Permit:
If you lose your passport, visa, driving license, or temporary permit while abroad, it stops you from continuing your trip. Then, we'll cover costs incurred in issuing an emergency certificate or duplicate passport so that you can return to enjoying your trip.
Medical treatment and evacuation exigencies:
This policy covers unexpected emergencies requiring hospitalization due to illness or acute pain. We will pay reasonable charges as per your policy.
Delay of Checked-in Baggage:
If your checked-in baggage is temporarily lost during the trip by your airline or other transport provider or doesn’t arrive on time, you will receive compensation.
Missed Connection:
If you miss a connection due to a delay in your previous connection for the reasons specified in your policy, we'll cover your extra travel and accommodation expenses.
Trip Extension:
If your trip is extended due to unavoidable circumstances mentioned in your policy documents and you must stay longer than expected, you will be reimbursed for the costs.
Loss of Baggage and Personal Belongings:
If you lose your stuff during your trip due to theft, robbery, etc., we will compensate you after deducting depreciation.
Accidental Treatment and Evacuation Exigencies:
If you meet with an accident during your trip, resulting in hospitalization, the cost of treatment will be covered. We will pay reasonable and customary charges as mentioned in the policy.
But, Why Choose Digit?
There are quite a few reasons that make Digit a prime choice as a Singapore travel insurance provider.
High Cover Amount at Low Premium:
Digit offers a high sum insured of $50,000 under its Singapore travel insurance, with premiums beginning at ₹395 (excl. 18% GST) for a 4-day trip for 1 adult.
Flight Delay Compensation:
Digit takes wastage of time and the ensuing harassment due to flight delay very seriously, offering reimbursement immediately.
Trip Cancellation:
If any emergency circumstance necessitates you to cancel your trip and get back home, Digit also offers compensation for it.
Fast Paperless Claim:
Digit offers a smartphone-enabled process that makes the whole method of filing a claim easy and fast. Additionally, Digit also offers the option for a 24x7 missed call facility for claim settlement.
FAQs about Singapore Visa for Indians
I plan to leave for Singapore on 29th March this year. When should I apply for a Visa?
What happens if I accidentally lose my passport while in Singapore?
If my Visa is not accepted, but I have paid the fees, may I expect a refund?
Does Singapore issue Visas on arrival for Indians?
Do In need to show any reasons as to why I intend to visit Singapore?
When should I apply for a Singapore visa?
You should apply for a Singapore visa at least 30 days before you plan to arrive. This gives enough time for processing and any delays. If you’re traveling during busy times or holidays, try to apply 1-2 months in advance.
How long does it take to get a visa to Singapore?
The time it takes to process a Singapore visa depends on the type of visa and other factors. Typically, a tourist visa is processed within 3 to 5 working days. The processing time can vary from 1 week to 4 weeks for other visas, such as work or student visas.
Do I need a visa to go to Singapore?
As an Indian citizen, you will need a visa to visit Singapore. You can apply for a Singapore visa online through an authorized visa agent or at the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission.
Is there a Singapore visa on arrival for Indians?
Indian citizens cannot get a visa when they arrive in Singapore. They need to apply for a visa before traveling. However, if you pass through Singapore to another country, you may be eligible to stay for up to 96 hours without a visa under the Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF).
Can I apply for a Singapore visa online?
Yes, you can apply for a Singapore visa online. First, create an account on the visa application portal. Then, fill out the forms with your details and upload the required documents, like a colored copy of your passport’s front page. Pay the application fees online and submit your application. Once approved, you’ll receive an electronic visa (e-visa) to print and present at immigration upon arrival in Singapore. For more details, visit the official ICA website.
Will I get a refund if my Singapore visa application is rejected?
No, the visa application fee for Singapore is non-refundable whether your application is approved or rejected. This policy is standard in many countries as the fee covers the processing costs.
What will happen if I extend my stay beyond the validity of my Singapore visa?
If you stay in Singapore beyond the validity of your visa without authorization, you could face fines, detention, deportation, and legal action.
How long does it take to process a Singapore visa for Indian citizens?
For Indian citizens, obtaining a Singapore visa usually takes 3 to 5 working days. This timeframe does not include the day of submission, weekends, or public holidays. To prevent any delays, it’s advisable to apply at least a week before your intended travel date.
What is the validity of a Singapore visa for Indians?
For Indians, a Singapore visa generally validates for two years. However, each visit permits a stay of up to 30 days. If you need to extend your stay, you must apply for an extension or a different type of visa.
Is it possible for Indian citizens to apply for a multiple-entry visa to Singapore?
Indian citizens can apply for a multiple-entry visa to Singapore for tourism and business. This visa permits stays of up to 30 days per visit and can be valid for two or six months, depending on the specific visa type.
How many months prior to the trip should I apply for a Singapore visa?
It’s advisable to apply for a Singapore visa 1-2 months ahead of your travel dates. This timeframe ensures ample time to address potential delays or additional document requirements. However, submit your application at least 30 days before your arrival.
Is it mandatory for Indians to get travel insurance for a Singapore visa?
No, Indians' travel insurance for Singapore is not mandatory. However, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance to cover unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
Can I get a Singapore visa in 2 days?
Under certain conditions, getting a Singapore visa in 2 days is possible. You might get a quick re-issue if your passport expires within the last 2-5 years. Urgent business trips or medical emergencies qualify for expedited processing with proper documentation. In rare cases, compassionate reasons like funerals may allow for faster processing. Generally, the standard processing time is 4-10 business days, so it’s best to plan and have all documents ready.
Is a flight ticket mandatory for a Singapore visa from India?
Yes, when applying for a Singapore visa from India, you must present a flight ticket as part of your application. This is a standard procedure to ensure that applicants have a confirmed travel plan and intend to return to their home country or continue their journey to another destination.