Visitor Visa Overview
In Singapore’s immigration system, “Visitor Visa” is often used broadly to describe both the pre-entry visa and the Visit Pass granted upon arrival, and understanding the difference is essential to planning your trip. A Singapore Visa issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), such as the Social Visit Visa or Business Visa, is pre-entry permission to travel to, and seek entry into, Singapore; it does not by itself grant immigration status. The actual permission to enter and remain in Singapore is the Visit Pass, issued electronically as an e-Pass by an ICA officer at the checkpoint, which states the exact period of stay granted, generally up to 90 days for many nationalities and up to 30 days for visa-required nationals such as Indian citizens. Since 11 March 2022, this e-Pass is sent digitally by email rather than stamped in the passport. Possession of a valid visa alone does not guarantee entry; final discretion rests solely with the ICA officer at the point of entry.
Visitor Visa Fees
| Fee Type | Government Fee |
| Visa Processing Fee (Indian applicants, effective 1 January 2026) | ₹2,100 |
| Authorised Visa Agent Service Charge | ₹1,000 |
| Total Cost per Application | ₹3,100 |
| Visit Pass (e-Pass) Issued at Checkpoint | No Additional Fee |
The Visit Pass itself carries no separate government fee; it is issued free of charge at the point of entry once the pre-entry visa (where required) and other entry conditions are satisfied. Visa fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application outcome. Fees for other nationalities are set in Singapore Dollars and may differ; confirm the current fee at ica.gov.sg.
Visitor Visa Processing Time
Processing time for the pre-entry Singapore Visa typically takes 3 to 5 working days from submission of a complete application through an authorised visa agent. The Visit Pass itself, however, is not “processed” in advance; it is granted electronically by the ICA officer at the checkpoint at the time of arrival, based on the traveller’s documentation, purpose of visit, and immigration history. Extending a Visit Pass beyond the period initially granted requires a separate Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP) extension application, submitted while still in Singapore, and approval is not guaranteed.
Required Documents Checklist
Document requirements may vary depending on nationality and individual circumstances.
Visitor Visa Application Process
Important Notes
Why Choose Shivansh Consultants
Understanding the difference between the pre-entry Singapore Visa and the Visit Pass granted at the checkpoint helps you plan your trip with realistic expectations about your length of stay. Shivansh Consultants offers guidance on which visa category matches your travel purpose and helps you prepare complete documentation to support a smooth entry. Our personalised guidance also covers Short-Term Visit Pass extensions, should your plans change while in Singapore. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance throughout your Singapore Visa journey.