Singapore Visa Options for Unmarried Couple

Singapore Visa Options for Unmarried Couple | Bestar

Singapore Visa Options for Unmarried Couples

Navigating Singapore's visa options for unmarried couples can be complex, as Singapore's immigration policies primarily recognize legally married spouses. However, there are some avenues available, particularly if one partner has a work pass in Singapore.

Here's a breakdown of the typical visa options and how they apply to unmarried couples:

Long-Term Stay Options for Unmarried Partners

Singapore does not offer a "dependent pass" for de facto or unmarried partners in the same way it does for legally married spouses. However, there are possibilities if one partner holds a valid work pass:

Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for "Common-Law Spouse":

• If one partner holds an Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass and meets certain salary requirements (currently, a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000 for EP/SPass holders to bring family members, andS12,000 to bring parents), their "common-law spouse" may be eligible for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).

  
  

• Important Note: The term "common-law spouse" is used by MOM in this context, but it typically requires substantial evidence of a committed, long-term relationship akin to marriage. This usually involves providing documents like joint tenancy agreements, shared financial accounts, and statutory declarations.

  
  

• The LTVP allows the holder to stay in Singapore for an extended period, often linked to the validity of the main pass holder's work pass. LTVP holders may also be eligible to work in Singapore under certain conditions (e.g., obtaining a Letter of Consent if they are a sole proprietor/partner/director with at least 30% shareholding in an ACRA-registered company).

Individual Work Pass:

• The most straightforward option for an unmarried partner to reside and work in Singapore independently is for them to secure their own Employment Pass (EP), S Pass, or Work Permit based on their own qualifications, skills, and job offer from a Singapore-registered company. This means their eligibility is not tied to their partner's immigration status.

Pre-Marriage Long-Term Visit Pass Assessment (PMLA):

• If one partner is a Singapore Citizen (SC) or Permanent Resident (PR) and the couple intends to marry, they are strongly encouraged to complete the PMLA before marriage.

  
  

• This free online assessment helps the foreign spouse-to-be check their chances of getting an LTVP after marriage. A positive PMLA outcome can significantly speed up the LTVP application process after marriage (from up to 6 months to 6 weeks). While not directly for unmarried couples to stay long-term, it's a crucial step if marriage is being considered for long-term residency.

Key Considerations for Unmarried Couples:

• Proof of Relationship: For any long-term pass based on a relationship (like the LTVP for "common-law spouse"), you will need to provide substantial documentary evidence to prove the genuine and committed nature of your relationship. This can include:

  
  

  • Joint bank accounts

  • Joint tenancy agreements or property ownership

  • Shared utility bills

  • Photographs together over time

  • Letters or declarations from friends and family

  • Affidavits or statutory declarations from your home country's embassy or a notary public confirming your de facto relationship.

    
    

• No Automatic Rights: Unmarried partners do not have automatic rights to reside or work in Singapore based solely on their relationship with a partner who is a Singapore citizen, PR, or work pass holder. Each application is assessed on its own merits and against specific criteria.

  
  

• Legal Recognition: Singapore law generally does not recognize same-sex partnerships or de facto relationships to the same extent as legal marriage for immigration purposes, though some provisions for "common-law spouse" for LTVP exist under MOM's purview for EP/S Pass holders.

  
  

• Consult Official Sources: It is crucial to always refer to the official websites of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for the most up-to-date and accurate information on visa and pass requirements. If your situation is complex, consider seeking advice from an immigration specialist in Singapore.

In summary, while there isn't a direct "unmarried couple" visa, options exist, primarily revolving around one partner obtaining a work pass that then allows for an LTVP for the other, or for each partner to secure their own independent visa. Marriage remains the most straightforward path for couples seeking long-term residency together in Singapore.

How Bestar can Help

For unmarried couples navigating Singapore's immigration landscape, Bestar can be an invaluable asset. While Singapore's policies prioritize legally married couples, Bestar can help maximize the chances of securing suitable passes. Here's how they can assist:

1. Expert Assessment and Eligibility Analysis:

• Understanding Nuances: Immigration policies, especially concerning "common-law" relationships for LTVPs, have specific criteria and require substantial evidence. Bestar understands these nuances and can assess if your relationship meets the required standard.

• Personalized Strategy: We will evaluate both partners' individual circumstances (e.g., nationality, education, work experience, salary, length of relationship) to determine the most viable visa or pass options. We'll advise on whether an LTVP for a common-law spouse is a possibility, or if one or both partners should pursue independent work passes.

• Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment (PMLA) Guidance: If one partner is a Singapore Citizen or PR and marriage is on the horizon, we can guide you through the PMLA process, ensuring you understand its implications and how it can streamline future LTVP applications post-marriage.

2. Document Preparation and Compilation:

• Comprehensive Checklist: Immigration applications require a precise and often extensive list of documents. Bestar provides comprehensive checklists, ensuring nothing is missed.

• Proper Formatting: We know the exact formatting and presentation requirements for documents to be accepted by the ICA and MOM, avoiding delays due to technicalities.

• Proof of Relationship: This is critical for unmarried couples seeking an LTVP. Specialists advise on the types of evidence to gather (e.g., joint tenancy agreements, shared financial statements, statutory declarations) and how to best present them to demonstrate a genuine and committed relationship.

• Drafting Supporting Letters: We can help draft compelling cover letters and affidavits that clearly articulate your situation and strengthen your application.

3. Application Submission and Liaison:

• Accurate Submission: We ensure that all forms are filled out correctly and accurately, minimizing the risk of rejection due to errors.

• Streamlined Process: We are familiar with the online portals (e.g., EPOL for MOM passes, ICA's e-services) and can efficiently submit applications on your behalf.

• Communication with Authorities: We can act as a liaison with the ICA or MOM, handling queries, responding to requests for additional information, and providing updates on your application status.

4. Addressing Complexities and Challenges:

• Addressing Weaknesses: If there are any potential weaknesses in your application (e.g., gaps in employment, unusual travel history), Bestar can help you address them proactively or explain them in a way that minimizes negative impact.

• Appeals: In the unfortunate event of a rejection, we can analyze the reasons for denial and advise on the feasibility of an appeal, helping you prepare a stronger re-application.

• Stay Updated on Policy Changes: Immigration policies can change. Bestar stays abreast of the latest regulations, ensuring your application is compliant with current requirements.

5. Strategic Advice for Long-Term Goals:

• Path to PR/Citizenship: If your long-term goal is Permanent Residency or Citizenship in Singapore, Bestar can advise on the best strategies, including how your initial visa/pass choice might impact future applications.

• Cohabitation Agreements: While not directly immigration-related, we may also advise on the importance of a cohabitation agreement in Singapore, given the lack of specific legal recognition for unmarried partners. This can help clarify financial obligations and asset distribution in the absence of marriage.

In essence, Bestar offers:

• Expertise and knowledge: Navigating complex and often unwritten rules.

• Time-saving: Handling the tedious paperwork and follow-ups.

• Increased chances of success: By presenting a strong, compliant application.

• Peace of mind: Reducing stress and uncertainty in the immigration process.

Given the specific challenges faced by unmarried couples in Singapore's immigration framework, engaging Bestar can significantly improve your prospects and ensure a smoother journey.