Singapore Work Visa for Indians: Fees & Requirements

If you have been looking for a job in Singapore or have already secured one, that is fantastic news! Professionals find the island nation appealing because of its dynamic business scene with worker-friendly laws. If you want to be guaranteed a seamless transition and peace of mind throughout your stay, knowing the visa application process and getting international travel insurance is vital.

Singapore Work Visa Requirements

Applying for a Singapore work visa for Indians requires careful preparation of a variety of necessary paperwork catering to the particular type of visa required. Let us closely examine this vital function:

General Requirements for All Visa Types

1. Valid Indian Passport:

   Must have been issued within the last 10 years and be valid for at least six months after your intended departure from Singapore.

2. Work Visa Application Form:

   Fully completed and signed.

3. Flight Tickets:

   To confirm your intended entry and exit dates.

4. Bank Statements:

   Covering the last six months to demonstrate financial stability.

5. Cover Letter:

   To affirm the purpose and duration of your stay.

6. Employment Proof:

   Including your appointment letter or an employment confirmation letter signed by your Singaporean employer.

7. Academic Certificates:

   From schools, colleges, and universities.

8. Financial Support Evidence:

   Such as travel insurance

Specific Document Requirements Based on Visa Types

1. Employment Pass:

   Company profile documents.

2. Personalised Employment Pass:

   Details about your employer, salary, local contact, and dependent's pass if applicable.

3. EntrePass:

   Detailed business plan, product certifications, licencing agreements, and business registration details.

4. S Pass and Other Work Permits:

   Company profile and additional supportive documents reflecting the company’s standing and your role.

5. Short-term Work Visa:

   >Company profile, employment testimonials, and a letter describing the work nature in Singapore.

6. Performing Artists Work Permit:

   Contribution statements, public entertainment licence, and company registration details.
7. <h4>Domestic Workers' Work Permit: Educational certificates, business profile from ACRA, and employer's licence and registration details.

Photograph Requirements

1. Quantity and Quality:

   Three current passport-sized photos.

2. Specifications:

   The backdrop of the photos should be white. The measurements should be 35mm by 45mm.

3. Presentation:

   Images must show at least 6 mm separating the top of the head from the frame and 80% face view. It should also be free of headgear or eyewear that hides the face.

How to Apply for a Singapore Work Visa from India

You will need to take a few steps if you are from India and want to work in Singapore. You and your employer must carefully follow the process to ensure successful visa issuance. Let us make it easier for you to navigate this process:

Step 1: Job Confirmation and Visa Application Initiation

Your employer must confirm your employment to facilitate your departure from India once you secure a job offer from a Singapore-based company. Following this confirmation, your employer should start the visa application through the Employment Pass (EP) Online system and pay the necessary application fee. 

Step 2: Document Submission

Fill out the work visa application form accurately. It is important to provide valid information and all supporting documents that corroborate your application. This includes your passport details, educational qualifications, and job offer information.

Step 3: Getting In-Principle Approval

Your boss will get an In-Principle Approval (IPA) if you are approved for a work visa. This IPA serves as a provisional nod from the Singapore authorities pending the final processing of your work visa.

Step 4: Visa Issuance

Once the IPA is granted, your employer will proceed to have your work permit issued. They must provide the contact details about where the permit card should be delivered.

Step 5: Biometric Registration

After your permit is issued, you may be required to visit a designated centre to register your fingerprints and possibly take a photograph, as per the final steps guided by the Singapore immigration authorities.

Singapore Work Visa Fees for Indian Citizens

Your budget plans hinge on knowing the related visa costs. The type of visa and its length affect expenses. Let us take a look:

1. Singapore Employment Pass:

   This pass is initially valid for two years. It can be renewed for three years. The application fee is SGD 139.65 (approximately INR 8,751.32).

2. Personalised Employment Pass:

   Valid for three years without renewal, with the same fee of SGD 139.65.

3. Entry Pass:

   Valid for one year with a possibility of extension for another six months, costing SGD 119.70 (around INR. 7,501.13).

4. Singapore Short-term Work Visa:

   Intended for stays up to 60 days, priced at SGD 39.90 (about INR 2,500.41).

5. ONE Pass:

   Valid for five years at SGD 439 (approximately INR 27,517.74).

6. S Pass:

   Allows for a two-year stay for a fee of SGD 99.76 (roughly INR 6,252.21).

7. Work Permit for Performing Artists:

   Valid for six months, with an application cost of SGD 99.76.

8. Work Permit for Domestic Workers:

   This two-year permit costs SGD 220.78 (approximately INR 13,836.83).

Singapore Working Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Singapore work visa can vary for Indian applicants as it is based on numerous elements. Generally, the time frame for visa processing is:

1. Minimum Processing Time:

   Usually, a work visa is handled in at least seven business days. This happens when all the necessary paperwork is filed accurately and completely.

2. Maximum Processing Time:

   In some instances, the processing time can extend up to five weeks. This happens particularly when additional verification or documentation is needed.

You should stay in constant contact with your visa agent to get updates. This ensures that any requests for further information are taken care of throughout the application process. Applying as early as feasible helps to reduce possible delays or application rejection risks. This allows ample time for processing.

Benefits of Singapore Work Visa

A Singapore work visa improves both professional opportunities and personal experiences through:

1. Professional Development:

   You should remain in constant contact with your visa agent throughout the application process. This will help you get updates and ensure that any requests for further information are taken care of immediately. Applying as early as feasible helps to reduce possible delays or application rejection risks.

2. Cultural Diversity:

   The mixed scene of Singapore provides a rich tapestry of cultural encounters. It extends both personally and professionally. The interaction with a diverse mix of traditions and practices fosters unique networking opportunities and contributes to a well-rounded global outlook.

3. High Living Standards:

   Singapore is well-known for its top-rated public services that guarantee a good quality of living. Complementing first-rate safety and cleanliness standards, the city-state’s healthcare, education, and public transportation systems are among the best worldwide. This provides the perfect backdrop for expatriates and their families for long-term professional obligations.

The Importance of Travel Insurance for Indians on a Work Visa in Singapore

International travel insurance is essential for Indians looking to start a career in Singapore. It provides a safety net against unexpected circumstances while abroad. Let us understand why securing a comprehensive policy is important:

1. Health Emergencies:

   Though Singapore offers excellent healthcare, the costs can be steep for expatriates. Travel insurance helps cover these expenses. It also ensures access to necessary medical treatments without the burden of high costs. This coverage is invaluable, particularly for emergency hospitalisations or specialised medical services.

2. Loss of Personal Items:

   Relocating involves carrying important documents and personal belongings, which are at risk of being lost or stolen. Travel insurance compensates for such losses. It also facilitates the swift and minimal financial impact of replacing essential items and documents.

3. Overall Protection:

   Travel insurance covers other hazards such as trip cancellations, flight delays, and more beyond health and personal belongings. These advantages assist in mitigating the unpredictabilities of relocation and travel.

Conclusion

Starting your work journey in Singapore can be both exciting and rewarding. Proper preparation ensures a smooth transition. You should also get insurance protection for your trip that covers your time spent abroad. It will help you move up in your job and live a great life in one of the coolest places in the world.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.

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