Ultimate Guide: Singapore Entry Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens (2025)

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Oct 3
6 min read

Singapore Visa Requirements for Indians

Ultimate Guide: Singapore Entry Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens (2025)

Planning a trip to the Lion City from India? Singapore, with its incredible blend of modernity and culture, is a top destination. However, Indian ordinary passport holders do require a visa to enter Singapore for tourism, business, or social visits. You cannot get a Visa-on-Arrival (VoA).

This SEO-optimized guide breaks down everything Indian citizens need to know about the Singapore e-Visa application process, required documents, and fees for a smooth journey.

Do Indian Citizens Need a Visa for Singapore?

Yes, Indian nationals holding an ordinary passport must obtain a valid entry visa before traveling to Singapore. Only holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports are typically exempt.

The Singapore visa for Indians is an e-Visa (electronic visa) and is processed digitally. You will receive an e-Visa approval notice (PDF) via email, which you should carry when traveling.

How to Apply for a Singapore E-Visa from India

The Singapore government's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) does not accept direct individual walk-in applications from Indian citizens. The visa application must be submitted through one of the following methods:

Authorized Visa Agents (AVAs) / Strategic Partners: This is the most common and recommended route for tourists. You submit your documents and application to one of the authorized agents in India, who will then submit it to the ICA on your behalf via the electronic visa system.
A Local Contact in Singapore: A Singapore Citizen (SC) or Permanent Resident (PR) who is at least 21 years old and has a SingPass/Corppass account can submit the application on your behalf. This contact will act as your 'sponsor'.

Key Application Steps:

Determine Your Visa Type: Most tourists will apply for a Tourist Visa (Social Visit Pass). Business travelers apply for a Business Visa.
Gather Documents: Collect all the required paperwork (see list below).
Submit Application: Approach an Authorized Visa Agent or have your local contact submit the application online.
Pay Fees: Pay the mandatory processing fee and the agent's service charge upfront.
Receive e-Visa: Once approved (typically 3-5 working days), the e-Visa (PDF) will be sent to the agent/sponsor, who will forward it to you.

Pro-Tip: It is highly recommended to apply for your Singapore entry visa within 30 days prior to your planned arrival date.

Essential Singapore Visa Documents for Indians

Whether you're applying for a tourist or business visa, the following documents are typically mandatory:

Document	Details
Passport	Original passport with at least six months validity from the date of entry into Singapore, and a minimum of two blank pages. Include a photocopy of the biodata page.
Old Passports	If you have previous passports, include them to show your travel history.
Photograph	Two recent (taken within the last three months) passport-sized color photographs (35mm x 45mm) against a plain white background.
Application Form	Duly completed and signed Form 14A (original).
Letter of Introduction (LOI)	Form V39A (Letter of Introduction for Visa Application). This is often required and must be issued by a local contact (SC/PR) in Singapore or a qualified partner.
Confirmed Air Tickets	Confirmed round-trip or onward flight tickets.
Proof of Accommodation	Confirmed hotel reservation or a letter from a host in Singapore.

Additional Supporting Documents (Varies by Applicant):

Applicant Status	Recommended Additional Documents
Employed	Last 3 months' salary slips, Employment ID card copy, and a Covering Letter/No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer on the company letterhead.
Self-Employed	Company letterhead for the Covering Letter, Business Registration License, GST Certificate, or MOA/Partnership Deed.
Financial Proof	Bank statement for the last 6 months (attested/stamped by the bank), demonstrating sufficient funds for the trip.
Visiting Friends/Family	Personal Invitation Letter (if applicable).

Singapore Visa Fees and Processing Time

Item	Fee (Approx. INR)	Details
Visa Processing Fee	S$30	Non-refundable fee paid to the ICA.
Authorized Agent Service Charge	S$300	Charged by the AVA/Strategic Partner for their service.
Total Fee	S$330	Final cost depends on the agent's charges.
Standard Processing Time	3 to 5 working days	Excludes the day of submission, weekends, and public holidays. Some cases may take longer.

Singapore Visa Validity and Stay Duration

Validity: The tourist e-Visa for Indian citizens is typically issued for a validity ranging from 30 days up to 2 years, and can be a Single Entry or Multiple Entry Visa (MEV). This is at the sole discretion of the Singapore Consulate.
Stay Duration: Regardless of the visa's validity, the actual duration of stay is determined by the Immigration Officer upon arrival and will be noted on your electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass), which is sent to your email. The maximum stay granted is typically up to 30 days.

The Final Step: Before You Fly

Remember that the Singapore entry visa is only a pre-entry permission. The final decision on entry and the duration of stay is determined by the ICA officer at the airport.

Mandatory for Arrival:

Valid Passport
Printout of your Singapore e-Visa
Confirmed Return or Onward Air Tickets
Completed SG Arrival Card (online health and travel declaration, must be submitted within 3 days before arrival).

Start your application process well in advance to ensure your Singapore adventure begins without any delays!

Guide: How Bestar HR Consulting Can Help with Your Singapore Visa from India (2025)

Ultimate Guide: Singapore Entry Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens (2025)

The Singapore e-Visa process for Indian citizens requires submission through a designated party: either an Authorized Visa Agent (AVA) or a Local Contact in Singapore (a Singapore Citizen or PR with SingPass/CorpPass).

For business visitors, entrepreneurs, or individuals leveraging professional networks, engaging a trusted corporate service provider like Bestar HR Consulting becomes an intelligent strategy. Bestar operates in Singapore and can streamline one of the most critical parts of the visa application for a competitive edge.

Bestar HR Consulting's Key Role in Your Singapore Visa Application

Bestar HR Consulting, with its strong presence in Singapore, primarily aids Indian applicants by serving as the Local Contact or offering specialized corporate support, particularly for business-related travel.

Here’s how they can be your strategic partner in navigating the Singapore visa requirements:

1. Corporate Sponsorship and V39A (Letter of Introduction)

For many business and social visit applications, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requires a Form V39A (Letter of Introduction - LOI). This form must be completed and signed by a Local Contact.

Business Sponsorship: If you are traveling to Singapore for business negotiations, meetings, or attending a trade fair, a Singapore-registered business entity can sponsor your visa. Bestar, as a registered corporate entity in Singapore, can potentially issue the V39A for legitimate business purposes.
Leveraging CorpPass: The V39A must be submitted online via the CorpPass system. Bestar, possessing the requisite corporate account and digital identity, can perform this essential online submission on your behalf, which is not possible for individual Indian applicants.

2. E-Visa Application Submission via the Corporate Channel

Indian citizens cannot apply for the Singapore e-Visa directly. Bestar, acting as the local corporate contact, facilitates the crucial step of online submission:

Digital Submission: They handle the technical aspect of submitting the Form 14A, Form V39A, and all supporting documents through the secure ICA e-Service portal.
Accuracy and Compliance: Bestar's expertise ensures that the application adheres to all ICA guidelines, particularly regarding photo specifications, form filling, and document translations (if required), minimizing the risk of rejection due to technical errors.

3. Support for Business and Long-Term Passes

While the focus is on short-term entry visas, Bestar's core expertise lies in Singapore work pass and HR compliance, providing a seamless transition for longer stays:

Employment Pass (EP) and S Pass: If your visit is exploratory and leads to employment, Bestar can manage the entire application process for an Employment Pass or S Pass on behalf of the hiring Singapore company, including liaising with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
Dependent Pass: They can also assist with the Dependent Pass application for the family members of the main work pass holder.

4. Streamlined Documentation and Advisory

Visa applications require specific documentation tailored to your travel purpose and professional status (employed, self-employed, etc.).

Document Review: Bestar's team reviews your documents (passport copy, financial proof, travel itinerary) to ensure they meet the rigorous requirements of the Singapore authorities.
Cover Letter Guidance: They can provide advisory on structuring your cover letter to clearly articulate the purpose and duration of your visit, aligning with the V39A.

Bestar HR Consulting Service	Direct Benefit to Indian Applicant
V39A Corporate Sponsorship	Fulfills the "Local Contact" requirement for business/social visa applications.
Digital Submission	Submits your application via CorpPass—a mandatory channel unavailable to individuals.
Work Pass Expertise	Provides end-to-end management for Employment Passes (EP) and S Passes, if your trip extends to employment.
Compliance Review	Reduces rejection risk by ensuring all documents meet ICA's strict standards.

Ultimate Visa Journey with Bestar (Summary)

Choosing a professional service like Bestar HR Consulting converts the complex process of obtaining a Singapore visa from India into a structured, streamlined procedure. They offer the necessary local representation and compliance expertise, allowing you to focus on planning your successful trip to the Lion City.

Start Smart: Partner with Bestar to secure your V39A and navigate the e-Visa application process with the confidence of Singapore-based professional support.

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