Your Key to Education in Singapore: A Guide to Obtaining a Student Visa in Singapore

Pursuing education sets people up for professional opportunities that help build their future. Many countries around the world offer international students the chance to study abroad. Today, Singapore is one of the countries where international students flock for a successful education.     

Singapore has become an attractive destination for international students seeking quality education. In fact, by the end of April 2022, there were about 65,400 international students in the country.  

To study in Singapore, an international student must obtain a student visa. If you’re interested in studying in Singapore, read this blog as we walk you through the process and requirements for obtaining a student visa for Singapore.  

What is a Singapore student visa?

A Singapore student visa, or what is referred to as a Student’s Pass, is a document allowing a foreign student to study in an educational institution or university in Singapore. The Student’s Pass is required for full-time international students pursuing a diploma, degree, or postgraduate course. 

Foreign students may also apply for a different student visa category depending on the nature and timeframe of their study program. Other student visa categories are:

• Training Employment Pass (TEP): This is for students enrolled in vocational training courses.
• Work Holiday Pass (WHP): This is for undergraduates and recent graduates from specific countries who wish to work and holiday in Singapore during university breaks.

Students must choose the student visa category to fit their course or program. 

Steps for Singapore Student Visa Application

Step 1: Admission to an Educational Institution

Before applying for a student visa to Singapore, you must secure admission to a recognized educational institution in the country. This could be a university, polytechnic, or other institution approved by Singapore’s Ministry of Education. Make sure to start your application at least two months before the start of classes. 

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Once you get admitted to a university or any educational institution in Singapore, you can start applying for a Student’s Pass. You will need to gather the following documents to apply:

1. Completed visa application form: You can apply for a Student’s Pass via Singapore visa online application. Obtain and fill out the correct application form from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
2. Offer letter from an approved educational institution: Secure the official letter or the Registration Acknowledgement Letter confirming your admission to an educational institution in Singapore.
3. Valid passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Singapore.
4. Recent passport-sized photograph: Take a recent passport-sized photo of yourself. Make sure the photo is taken within the last three months.
5. Educational transcripts and certificates: Provide academic records of your previous studies, including diplomas, degrees, and transcripts.
6. Financial proof: Show proof that you can support yourself financially during your study in Singapore. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or a letter from a sponsor.
7. Address and contact details: You also need to prepare documents showing your residential address as well as a working contact number and email address.

Step 3: Visa Application and Submission

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you may proceed to submit your application. All applications are submitted online through the ICA website. Pay the necessary application fee, which is non-refundable. Make sure that your application is complete and accurate to avoid possible delays. 

Step 4: Visa Processing and Approval

Visa processing starts after payment of the application is made. The ICA will review your application and may request additional documents or information if needed. Once approved, you will receive a Registration Acknowledgement Letter containing your Student’s Pass application number to complete the application online.

FAQs

1. How much is the processing fee for a Singapore Student’s Pass?

Ans: The application processing fee is SGD30. Payment can be made using major debit/credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.  

2. How long does it take to process a student visa application in Singapore?

Ans: It takes about 10-15 days to process a Singapore student visa application. Make sure to submit your application at least two months before the course starts.

3. Can I work while studying in Singapore on a student visa?

Ans: Student’s Pass holders are eligible to work in Singapore. Full-time students can work only up to 16 hours per week during the academic term and can work full-time during school breaks. Students pursuing a research or postgraduate program at the master's or Ph.D. level may be eligible for additional work privileges.

4. Can I extend my student visa if I need more time to complete my studies in Singapore?

Ans: You may extend your Student’s Pass should you need more time to complete your studies. Requests for extension must be sent to the ICA before your current student visa expires. The extension is subject to approval based on your academic progress and the validity of your enrollment. It is advisable to begin the extension process well in advance, preferably at least two months before your current visa’s expiration date, to ensure a smooth application for extension.

Better Opportunities Await You

Obtaining a Singapore student visa or Student’s Pass is an important step in realising your dream of studying in Singapore. Remember to plan, gather the required documents, and ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria. Studying in Singapore is a rewarding journey. Secure a key to education in Singapore and realise your life’s dreams!