Singapore Visa Basics
1. A visa is pre-entry permission to travel to and seek entry into Singapore. Even with a visa, entry is not guaranteed—Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers grant the final pass.
2. All visitors must also complete the Singapore Arrival Card (SG Arrival Card / Electronic Arrival Card) prior to arrival.
3. The period of stay is indicated on the Visit Pass granted upon entry; this is separate from visa validity.
Visa Exemptions & Visa-Waiver
Many countries’ passport holders do not require a visa for short visits (tourism, social/business). They can enter Singapore visa-free and will receive a Visit Pass on arrival. Also, there is the
Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) for certain nationalities in transit through Singapore. Under certain conditions, travelers may enter Singapore for up to 96 hours without a visa while enroute between third countries.
Regional / Global Overview
1. Citizens of many countries in Europe, Americas, Asia, Africa enjoy visa-free access for short stays. The exact list is long.
2. Nationals from the CIS countries (e.g. Russia, Ukraine, etc.), Georgia, Turkmenistan, etc., may be eligible for VFTF under certain transit conditions.
3. Some countries issue an electronic visa (e-visa) or allow visa via authorized agents. Whether a “sticker visa” is required depends on your nationality and local Singapore mission.
4. Indian citizens holding ordinary passports require a visa prior to travelling to Singapore.
