how long can social visit pass stay in singapore

Experience Singapore in a Snap: Your Quick Guide to the Short Term Visit Pass

Singapore is a lively centre of culture, business, and green spaces, attracting visitors worldwide. The Short Term Visit Pass (STVP) makes it easier for tourists to visit for brief stays. This pass streamlines the entry process, highlighting Singapore’s aim to be an open, global destination for travellers.

This article will clarify the details of the STVP and show why it’s crucial for tourists visiting Singapore. We’ll cover how to apply, how long the pass lasts, and other important details to make your trip smooth. Our goal is to offer a detailed guide that covers everything you need to know about the STVP, helping you enjoy your upcoming trip to Singapore.

Key Facts about the Short Term Visit Pass

Starting your trip to Singapore is thrilling, and knowing the basics of the STVP is the first step to a smooth visit. The STVP isn’t just for tourists; it also serves as a pass for social visits or medical treatments. Let’s look at the important details about the STVP, including what it is and who can get it.

What is a Short Term Visit Pass?

The Short Term Visit Pass (STVP) is an electronic visit pass, typically issued upon arrival at the Singapore checkpoint. It serves as a temporary visa, allowing tourists to enter and stay in Singapore temporarily. Tailor-made for visitors engaging in tourism, business discussions, or family visits, the STVP underscores Singapore’s welcoming nature, providing easy access for visitors to explore its rich culture and vibrant cityscape.

Duration and Validity Period:

• Duration: The standard validity of an STVP can range from 14 to 90 days, depending on your nationality and the discretion of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore.

Benefits of the Short Term Visit Pass

Singapore’s appeal goes beyond its tall buildings and busy streets. It’s a blend of cultures with top-notch healthcare, offering many experiences and services to visitors. The Short Term Visit Pass is essential for tourists and short-term visitors to access these benefits. Let’s look at the key advantages of the STVP, focusing on social visits, tourism, and medical treatment access.

Social Visits

The STVP stands as a bridge connecting friends and families across the globe, facilitating social visits with ease and simplicity. It allows individuals worldwide to reunite with loved ones in Singapore, whether for a festive celebration, a special occasion, or simply the joy of togetherness. The pass ensures that these priceless moments are within reach, providing a hassle-free entry process into Singapore for this purpose.

Singapore is a treasure trove of experiences for the wanderlust-driven souls, from the historic charm of the heritage districts to the futuristic allure of the Gardens by the Bay . The STVP is your golden ticket to this vibrant city-state, simplifying your travel plans and allowing you to immerse yourself in its tourism offerings. Whether it’s sampling the eclectic mix of cuisines, exploring the lush green spaces, or shopping to your heart’s content, the STVP facilitates a smooth journey through Singapore’s tourist attractions, making every moment count.

Medical Treatment

Singapore is renowned for its world-class medical facilities and high standards of healthcare. For those seeking medical treatment or health check-ups, the STVP provides essential access to these services. It ensures that visitors needing medical attention can avail themselves of the necessary care without undue delay. This aspect of the STVP underscores Singapore’s commitment to healthcare excellence and its role as a regional medical hub.

Applying for a Short Term Visit Pass

Planning a trip to Singapore means getting ready, and getting a STVP is important. Whether you’re attracted by its city vibe, peaceful parks, or excellent healthcare, this guide will help you apply, ensuring your journey is as smooth as Singapore’s roads. We’ll cover how to apply, what documents you need, and the online steps, including tips on what mistakes to avoid.

Required Documents and Eligibility Criteria

To ensure your application sails through without a hitch, you’ll need:

• A passport with at least six months of validity.
• Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay.
• For visa-required nationals, a valid Singapore visa.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an STVP

• Check Eligibility: Before anything else, verify your eligibility. Are you from a country that requires a visa to enter Singapore? If so, you must apply for a visa that includes the STVP.
• Gather Required Documents: Preparation is key. You’ll need a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds.
• Apply Online: Most visitors can apply for an STVP online via the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore’s official website or through a local contact in Singapore. Some may need to apply through a Singapore embassy or consulate.
• Wait for Approval: Patience is a virtue here. The processing time can vary, but applying well before your intended travel date is wise.

Online Application Process and Timeline

Applying online is straightforward:

• Visit the ICA website or use the SG Arrival Card e-Service.
• Complete the application form with accurate details.
• Attach the required documents digitally.
• Apply and pay any applicable fees.

The approval timeline typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks. Planning ahead is crucial to avoid travel disruptions.

Avoiding Common Reasons for Application Rejection

Rejections can happen, but they’re often avoidable. Common reasons include incomplete applications, lack of supporting documents, or discrepancies in provided information. To steer clear of these pitfalls:

• Double-check your application for completeness and accuracy.
• Ensure your documents are up-to-date and legible.
• Provide a detailed itinerary if asked, especially for tourism or business visits.

Understanding these steps and requirements will significantly enhance your chances of a smooth application process for the STVP, paving the way for an enriching experience in Singapore, whether it be for tourism, social visits, or medical treatment. With meticulous preparation and a keen eye for detail, you’ll be well on your way to exploring Lion City’s vibrant streets, serene parks, and everything in between.

Extending Your Stay with the Short Term Visit Pass

Singapore’s mix of culture, business, and beautiful green areas often makes visitors wish to stay longer. If you’re not ready to leave this vibrant city-state, consider extending your Short Term Visit Pass. This guide will help you understand how to extend your STVP, including the rules and limits, and guide you through the extension application process.

Understanding the Conditions and Limitations

Extending an STVP is possible, but it comes with its set of conditions and limitations. Here’s what you need to know:

• Eligibility: Extensions are not guaranteed and are subject to approval by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore. Your eligibility for an extension may depend on the reason for your stay and your compliance with your original visit pass terms.
• Duration: The ICA determines the extension period. Generally, you may apply to extend your stay for up to 30 days from your date of entry into Singapore. However, if you are an immediate family member (i.e., spouse, parents, children, and siblings) of a Singapore citizen or Singapore permanent resident, you may apply to extend your stay for up to 89 days from your date of entry into Singapore.
• Limitations: There are strict limits on the number of extensions you can apply for, and each application is evaluated on its own merits. Factors such as your travel history, extended stay’s purpose, and ties to your home country will be considered.

Applying for an Extension: The Process

If you decide to extend your stay, the process is relatively straightforward but requires attention to detail:

• Timing: To account for potential processing delays, submit your extension application at least seven days before the expiration of your current STVP. Extensions can be requested up to 14 days before the expiry.
• Online Application: The most convenient way to apply for an extension is through the ICA’s e-Service. You must log in, complete the application form, and submit the required documents. 
• Required Documents : To apply for an extension of your STVP, you’ll typically need the following:
• Valid Travel Document : A copy of your passport, specifically the page displaying your personal particulars.
• Disembarkation/Embarkation (D/E) Number : This can be found on your SG Arrival Card.
• Current STVP : A copy of your existing Short-Term Visit Pass.
• Detailed Reason for Extension : A clear explanation outlining the necessity for your extended stay.

Additional documents or clarifications may be required based on individual circumstances. During the online submission process, or at an interview at the Visitor Services Centre located on Level 4 of the ICA Building, you and your local sponsor (if applicable) may be asked to provide scanned copies or original documents. Examples of additional requirements include:

• For visitors with immediate family members who are Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents : Original supporting documents may be necessary to verify the relationship.
• For visitors seeking an extension for medical treatment : A completed Form V75 , endorsed by a registered doctor in Singapore, detailing the illness and the required period of stay.
• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee may be associated with your application for an extension.

Potential Outcomes

• Approval: If your application is successful, you will receive an extension of your STVP for a specified period. It’s important to adhere strictly to the new terms of your stay.
• Rejection: Applications can be rejected for various reasons, including insufficient justification for the extended stay or failure to meet eligibility criteria. If your application is denied, you are expected to leave Singapore by the expiry date of your current STVP.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Provide Detailed Justification: Clearly explain why you need an extension, whether for personal reasons, unforeseen circumstances, or other valid grounds.
• Plan Ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute. The early application increases your chances of a smooth extension process.

Extending your STVP offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in Singapore’s wonders further, be it for personal exploration, family reasons, or unexpected circumstances. You can secure that much-desired extension by understanding the conditions, meticulously preparing your application, and adhering to the process.

Activities Allowed under the Short Term Visit Pass

With a Short Term Visit Pass, you can enjoy many activities, from visiting cultural spots to trying out local food. However, knowing the rules and guidelines of the STVP is crucial for a smooth and fun visit. Let’s look into what you can do with this pass, understand the main restrictions, and point out some top attractions you shouldn’t miss as an STVP holder.

Permitted Activities for STVP Holders

The STVP is designed primarily for tourists, business visitors, and those making social visits. Here’s what you can do:

• Tourism: Experience the rich tapestry of Singapore’s heritage, nature, and modernity. Your options are limitless, from the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the serene Botanic Gardens.
• Business: Attend meetings, conferences, or networking events. The STVP allows business visitors to engage with local counterparts, explore opportunities, and gain insights into Singapore’s dynamic business environment.
• Social Visits: Reconnect with friends and family residing in Singapore. Celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy quality time together.

Restrictions and Guidelines for STVP Holders

While the STVP is flexible, there are important restrictions to note:

• Employment: Conducting employment or business activities without a valid work pass is strictly prohibited.
• Study: Short-term courses are allowed and completed within the STVP’s validity period. Longer-term educational pursuits require the appropriate student pass.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to the laws and regulations of Singapore is paramount. STVP holders must ensure their activities fall within legal boundaries and respect local customs.

Final Thoughts

We’ve covered the key points of the Short Term Visit Pass, explaining how it helps tourists, business visitors, and social visitors enter Singapore. We’ve examined how to apply, extend, and maximise your stay. We’ve also explored what activities you can do with the STVP, the rules you need to follow, and suggested top attractions to enhance your visit. The STVP stands out as your access to Singapore’s varied and vibrant scenes, providing a well-structured yet flexible way to experience different activities.

We hope you use the information here to enjoy what Singapore offers with an STVP fully. Whether exploring its rich cultures, diving into the lively business scene, or enjoying various leisure activities, this guide is meant to help you confidently plan your trip. Singapore is full of experiences waiting to be explored.

Ready to explore Singapore with the Short Term Visit Pass? Visit Xignam for more information and assistance with your application. Starting your Singapore adventure has never been easier, with a treasure trove of experiences awaiting your arrival. Let the Lion City captivate your heart and imagination as you enter a world where tradition and innovation intertwine.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Testimonials
• Incorporation
• Immigration
• Investments
• Immigration service outside Singapore
• Informative Articles
• Incorporation FAQ
• Immigration FAQ
• Investment FAQ

Thank you for  reaching out to us via our website.  Expect a prompt response from us  during business hours.

• Media Release Detail

ICA to facilitate visitors on Short Term Social Visit Passes who wish to attend short courses in Singapore

You are using a version of browser which will not be supported after 27 May 2018. To continue to transact with MOM securely, please follow these steps to enable the Transport Layer Security (TLS) of your web browser, or upgrade to the latest version of your browser.

PH pay, COMPASS, Primary Care Plan, myMOM Portal, paying salary, annual leave

Can I apply for an S Pass while I am on a visit pass?

Yes, you can apply for an S Pass while you are on a visit pass in Singapore.

However, your visit pass will not be extended while you await the outcome of your application. You will have to return to your home country/region when it expires.

We will inform your employer of the outcome accordingly.

Information and Services

Social media.