Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) puts its visa policy in one sentence: “possession of a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore.”
The visa does not set how long you stay
ICA says: “the period of stay in Singapore is not tied to the validity of your visa. The period of stay is determined by the duration of the Visit Pass issued to you in the form of electronic visit pass (e-Pass) at the checkpoint upon entry.”
The e-Pass is issued on the day you land. Since 11 March 2022 it comes by email, not as a passport stamp: “from 11 March 2022, all foreign visitors arriving in Singapore will be notified digitally of their Visit Pass (e-Pass) through email.” That email is your record of how long you may stay.
The SG Arrival Card does not replace any of this: “SG Arrival Card is not a visa.” Our SG Arrival Card guide covers what it asks for and when to submit it.
Applying: online, in advance
“ICA does not accept submission of visa application over the immigration counters.” You cannot decide to apply when you land.
Most applicants go through a Local Contact who holds a Singpass or Corppass account. Without one, ICA lists two other routes: “through an authorised visa agent appointed by the Singapore Overseas Missions; or at the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission.” Both need time before the trip.
Every traveller needs their own document
ICA requires that “all travellers, regardless of age, must hold a valid individually-issued travel document as collective travel documents are not accepted.” A child listed only on a parent’s passport will not be accepted.
Which passports need a visa
ICA’s page explains what a visa is, how the Visit Pass relates to it and how to apply. It does not say which passports need one. VisaHQ checks that against your own passport, and it is free to ask before you pay for anything.
You can also check your passport against ICA’s current visa requirement list on the official page before you book.
Find out whether your passport needs a Singapore visa at all (affiliate link)