Singapore Visa Guide 2026

Updated May 2026 · By Ram Krishna · 12 min read

Singapore offers Asia's most attractive immigration system. The COMPASS framework transparently evaluates Employment Pass applicants. PR through the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers (PTS) scheme provides clear permanent residence criteria.

Visa Options & Categories

Employment Pass (EP): Professionals SGD \,000-5,600+/month (financial \,800+). COMPASS score 40+. Valid 1-3 years. PR after 6 months.

SPass: Mid-skilled SGD \,300+/month. Quota 10-18% of company workforce. Valid 1-2 years. Levy payable by employer.

Tech.Pass: Tech founders/leaders/experts. 2-year visa, no employer sponsorship. Meet 2 of 3: salary \,500+/month, 5+ yrs tech leadership, exceptional experience.

EntrePass: Entrepreneurs. Raise \+ from accredited investor, hold IP, or A*STAR collaboration. Valid 6 months-2 years.

Student Pass: Full-time study. Work 16 hrs/week term, unlimited holidays. ICA letter of consent needed.

PEP (Personalised EP): High earners \,500+/month. 3-year non-renewable. 6 months between jobs. No employer needed.

ONE Pass: Top talent all sectors. 5-year visa. \,000+/month or outstanding achievements. Spouse works with LTVP+.

PR (PTS Scheme): EP/SPass holders with 6+ months. Economic contribution, qualifications, family ties. Processing 6-9 months.

Use our Visa Eligibility Checker to find the best visa category for your profile.

Processing Times

EP: 3-8 weeks. SPass: 3-4 weeks. Tech.Pass: 4-8 weeks. EntrePass: 8-12 weeks. Student: 2-4 weeks. PR: 6-9 months.

Processing times vary based on application completeness, volume, and season. Apply well in advance. Check the official immigration website for current estimates.

Visa Fees & Costs

Visa TypeFee
EPSGD \
SPassSGD \
Tech.PassSGD \
EntrePassSGD \
StudentSGD \
PEPSGD \
ONE PassSGD \
PRSGD \+ \ (card)

Fees are non-refundable and subject to change. Exchange rates fluctuate. Additional costs may include translation, courier, travel insurance, and biometrics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of visas are available for Singapore?
Visa types vary by purpose: tourism, business, work, study, family reunion, and permanent residence. Each has specific requirements, fees, and processing times. Short-stay tourist visas typically allow 90-day visits while long-stay visas permit extended stays with work rights.
How long does it take to get a Singapore visa?
Processing times range from 15 days for short-stay visas to 12+ months for residence applications. Work visas process in 2-4 months, student visas in 4-12 weeks, and family visas in 3-9 months. Expedited services at additional cost.
Can I work while on a student visa in Singapore?
Most countries allow 15-20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Post-study work options vary: some offer 1-2 year job search visas while others allow direct transition to work visas.
What if my visa application is rejected?
You can appeal within 14-30 days of rejection. Common reasons: insufficient funds, incomplete documentation, weak ties to home country. Address the specific reason before reapplying.
Can I bring my family on a Singapore visa?
Most long-stay visas allow family reunion for spouses and minor children. Requirements include minimum income thresholds, adequate housing, and health insurance. Some countries require spouse language tests.
For informational purposes only. Verify current requirements at the official immigration website. Consult a licensed immigration attorney for personalised advice.