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The Ultimate Guide to Singapore: Visa, Work, and Residency Procedures Simplified

For a safe and seamless trip to Singapore, it is essential to be well-versed in the latest entry procedures and requirements. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to the Lion City. From visa regulations to quarantine measures, we will ensure you are prepared for every step of your travel experience.

Administrator

15 September, 2024

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If you’re planning a trip to Singapore, make sure to read the following article to learn about the process and procedures for entering the country and avoid any potential difficulties or hiccups along the way.

1. Before Departing to Singapore

Preparing Your Trip to Singapore

Get Your Documents in Order

Depending on your purpose of visit and nationality, you may fall under one of the Safe Travel Lanes categories and will need to prepare specific documents, such as:

Air Travel Pass (ATP): For short-term visitors, you’ll need to apply for an Air Travel Pass 7-30 days before your intended date of entry to Singapore.

Connect@Singapore (Connect@SG): For business or official trips, you must apply for a Safe Travel Pass through the appointed facility operator under the Connect@Singapore initiative at least 14 days before your intended week of entry.

Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL): For eligible countries, you can apply for a Safe Travel Pass under the Reciprocal Green Lane 14-35 days before your intended week of entry through companies or government agencies in Singapore.

Apply for a Visa (if required)

If you require a visa to enter Singapore, you must submit your application to the Singapore Overseas Mission or authorized visa agents. You will then receive an approval letter for the respective Safe Travel Lane, which is required for your entry into Singapore.

Pre-Departure Checks

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all short-term visitors entering Singapore under the Air Travel Pass (ATP) or Connect@Singapore lanes must remain in their declared point of departure for 21 consecutive days prior to their departure to Singapore.

For visitors entering under the Reciprocal Green Lane (RGL), a 14-day stay at the declared point of departure is required before traveling to Singapore.

Pre-Departure Procedures (3 days)

First, register and undergo a COVID-19 PCR test.

Second, use the Visit Singapore Travel Guide app or SG Arrival Card (SGAC) to submit your health and travel declarations.

The Visit Singapore Travel Guide app is available on the App Store and Google Play.

Third, download the TraceTogether app and register your profile.

Fourth, travelers with an Air Travel Pass or under the Reciprocal Green Lane are required to book accommodation at approved facilities and self-isolate for 48 hours while awaiting the results of their COVID-19 PCR test.

Fifth, present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result upon arrival in Singapore.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Travelers under the Air Travel Pass or Reciprocal Green Lane must have travel insurance that covers COVID-19 treatment and stay in Singapore.

2. Upon Arrival in Singapore

– Documents to Present:

Approval letter for the respective Safe Travel Lane and a valid visa (if required).
Mobile device with the Trace Together app installed and your registered profile.
For Air Travel Pass or Reciprocal Green Lane travelers: Present a printed or electronic copy of your insurance policy.
For Connect@Singapore and Reciprocal Green Lane travelers: Present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before departure.
Reciprocal Green Lane travelers must also present: A 14-day itinerary and proof of onward departure from Singapore.

Undergoing COVID-19 PCR Testing

– COVID-19 Testing:

All travelers to Singapore must undergo a COVID-19 PCR test upon arrival. Air Travel Pass or Reciprocal Green Lane travelers will be transported by private taxi or private hire car from the airport to their declared accommodation while awaiting their test results.

Connect@Singapore travelers will be transported by the appointed facility operator. All travelers must self-isolate for 48 hours while awaiting their test results. If the result is negative, you’re free to explore the city.

In the event of a positive COVID-19 test, travelers will have to bear the cost of medical treatment. However, if you have purchased travel insurance that covers COVID-19, your insurance provider will pay for these services.

– Stay Safe and Stay in Touch:

Download the Trace Together app and register your profile. Keep the app running during your stay in Singapore for easy contact tracing.

Regularly “Check-in” and “Check out” at locations using Safe Entry. Retain the app and all data for 14 consecutive days after leaving Singapore.

Reciprocal Green Lane travelers must adhere to their declared 14-day itinerary. Connect@Singapore travelers must remain within the designated facility and with their declared group, with regular testing arranged by the facility operator.

3. During Your Stay in Singapore

Wear a Mask to Stay Safe in Singapore

To minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection and ensure a safe stay in Singapore during the pandemic, consider the following precautions:

– Always wear a mask in public places, when dining out, shopping, or exercising.

– Maintain a safe distance of at least 1 meter from others, and interact in groups of no more than 5 people.

– Check-in with Safe Entry via the Trace Together app and undergo temperature screening when entering restaurants and shops.

– Undergo testing before participating in events with more than 50 people.

– Reduce group sizes for tours: A maximum of 20 people for groups with dedicated transport, and 50 people for groups without dedicated transport.

If you feel unwell during your stay in Singapore, you can visit a Public Health Preparedness Clinic (PHPC) by private transport or taxi.

– Travel advisories and restrictions can change quickly, so stay updated with the latest information from official sources. For COVID-19 updates, refer to the Ministry of Health and Gov.sg COVID-19 websites. For entry requirements, check the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority website.

This article covers everything you need to know about the process and procedures for traveling to, arriving in, and staying in Singapore. We hope this information makes your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Frequently asked questions

A Work Visa is for professionals, specialists, and managers, whereas a Work Permit is for foreign workers in the construction, manufacturing, marine, process, or services sectors.

There are various types of Work Visas, including the Employment Pass, S Pass, and Work Holiday Pass. The type of visa you need depends on your qualifications, experience, and the industry you work in.

You can apply for a Work Visa through the Singapore Ministry of Manpower’s online portal, or engage a third-party employment agency to facilitate the process.

You will typically need a completed application form, your passport, recent passport-sized photographs, educational certificates, and proof of your employment, such as a contract or a letter of offer.

You can apply for PR status through the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). There are various schemes available, such as the Global Investor Program or the Professional, Technical, and Skilled Worker Scheme.

PR status offers benefits such as the ability to live and work in Singapore without restrictions, access to the country’s education and healthcare systems, and the option to apply for long-term visit passes for your parents.

Processing times vary depending on the type of application and your individual circumstances. Work Visa applications can take around 3 weeks, whereas PR applications may take 6 months or longer.

Yes, you can apply for dependent passes for your spouse and children under 21 years old. This allows them to join you in Singapore during your employment period.

Singapore has a progressive tax system. As a foreigner, you will typically be taxed at a higher rate than locals, but you may be eligible for tax exemptions or rebates depending on your income level and qualifications.

Yes, certain industries and occupations are restricted to locals only. These include sensitive positions in sectors like aviation, finance, and information technology.