SINGAPORE
Singapore's blend of economic prosperity, quality of life, and numerous opportunities makes it a great destination for people seeking employment and personal development. Professionals and entrepreneurs find the nation to be an appealing destination due to its advanced infrastructure, talented people, open business rules, and stable political environment. With a high GDP per capita, it is continuously ranked among the richest nations in the world. Singapore's immigration process is relatively simple; however, visa applications must follow certain rules. There are possibilities for online applications and the government offers clear guidelines. Singapore has an outstanding standard of living, with world-class healthcare, education, and facilities. The city-state is noted for its cleanliness, security, and efficient public services, the reason it is an excellent place for more enhanced opportunities worldwide.
Here are some popular visa types available for Singapore:
Singapore offers various visa types and passes for different purposes. Each visa category has unique eligibility criteria and restrictions. If you're contemplating Singapore, study the options that match your purpose of travel or stay.
- Short-Term Visit Pass:Allows entry for short social visits, tourism, or medical reasons and is typically valid for up to 30 days within 90 days.
- Work Passes and Permits:
- Employment Pass: For skilled professionals with job offers from approved employers.
- EntrePass: For entrepreneurs starting and operating businesses in Singapore.
- S Pass: For mid-skilled workers in specific sectors.
- Dependant’s Pass: Tied to the validity of the main work pass holder (for family members).
- Student Pass: For international students pursuing full-time studies at approved institutions.
- Permanent Residence (PR): For extended stays, PR status allows individuals to live and work in Singapore indefinitely.
To apply for a visa to migrate or work in Singapore, follow these steps:
If you’re considering migrating or working in Singapore, here are the steps to follow when applying for a visa:
- Determine Your Visa Type: First, identify the type of work pass or visa that aligns with your purpose of travel and employment.The most common work passes include the Employment Pass, S Pass, and Personalised Employment Pass (PEP).
- Eligibility and Salary Requirements: Each work pass has specific eligibility criteria, including minimum salary requirements.
- For example:
- Employment Pass (EP): For professionals in managerial or executive positions. The minimum salary starts at $5,000 per month and increases based on age and experience.
- S Pass: For mid-skilled workers. The salary requirement varies.
- PEP: For executives with flexibility. Requires a fixed monthly salary of $12,000 (for existing EP holders) or $18,000 (for first-time applicants).
- For example:
- Application Submission: Employers or employment agencies typically apply on behalf of the individual. Some work passes require the employer to provide medical coverage.
- Validity and Renewal: Work passes are valid for specific durations (e.g., up to 2 years for EP) and any employers can renew work passes for up to 3 more years (or longer in certain cases).
- Entry and Visit Pass:Upon arrival in Singapore, you’ll receive an electronic visit pass (e-Pass) at the checkpoint.The duration of stay is determined by the e-Pass, not the visa validity and should you wish to extend your stay, apply for a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) extension.
- Application Channels: Apply online through the ICA website or via an authorized visa agent appointed by Singapore Overseas Missions. However, If you don’t have a local contact, apply directly at the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission.
It is important to note that ICA officers issue immigration passes at the port of entry. Make sure you meet the requirements and adhere to the travel guidelines.
Visa that allows you to work
If you want to work in Singapore, there are numerous work visa options available depending on your qualifications and employment description. Remember to review the qualifying criteria and requirements for each visa category.
- Employment Pass (EP): is for foreign professionals, managers, and executives and for you to be eligible, you need to earn at least S$3,600 per month and pass the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS)
- S Pass: is for skilled workers in mid-level positions where candidates must earn at least S$2,300 per month1.
- Work Permit: is available for skilled and semi-skilled migrant workers in specific sectors such as construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, or services. Foreign worker quotas and levies apply to Work Permits
- EntrePass: is for foreign entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a business in Singapore and is venture-backed or possess innovative technologies
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): is available for high-earning existing Employment Pass holders or overseas foreign professionals. It offers greater flexibility than an Employment Pass.
Visa that allows you to migrate
- Employment Pass (EP): is for highly qualified professionals seeking employment in Singapore and to be eligible, you must have a job offer from an approved employer and meet salary requirements. These are valid for up to 2 years and can be renewed for up to 3 years
- EntrePass: is for entrepreneurs who want to start and operate a business in Singapore and it is designed for early-stage businesses with innovative ideas
- Personalised Employment Pass (PEP): is reserved for high-earning professional as it offers greater flexibility than an EP and allows you to switch jobs without reapplying for a new pass.
- S Pass: is for skilled workers in mid-level positions however it requires a job offer and for you to meet specific salary criteria.
Keep in mind that each visa category has its own set of eligibility conditions. If you're considering moving to Singapore, study official government resources for reliable and up-to-date information
