Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

A Singapore study visa, also known as a Student’s Pass, is issued to foreign students who plan to study in Singapore for a short period of time. This visa allows international students to come to Singapore and study at an approved educational institution. The Student’s Pass is issued by the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and is required for students who wish to pursue full-time studies at any institution in Singapore.

The process of applying for a Singapore study evisa can be lengthy and time-consuming, but with proper preparation and documentation, it can be a smooth process. Students who wish to study in Singapore should first find an approved educational institution and obtain an offer letter or acceptance letter from that institution. The offer letter should include details of the course of study, the duration of the course, and the total fees payable.

Once the offer letter has been obtained, students can then proceed to apply for a Student’s Pass. The application can be submitted online through the ICA website, and students will need to provide a range of supporting documents such as a valid passport, recent passport-sized photograph, and medical examination report. The medical examination report should be obtained from a recognized clinic or hospital and should be issued no more than three months before the date of the application.

In addition to the above documents, students will also need to provide proof of financial ability to support themselves during their stay in Singapore. This can be in the form of bank statements, scholarship letters, or letters of financial support from parents or guardians.

Once the application has been submitted, it can take up to four weeks for the Student’s Pass to be issued. If the application is approved, the student will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter, which will allow them to enter Singapore and complete the formalities for the Student’s Pass.

After arriving in Singapore, students will need to go through a formal process to collect their Student’s Pass. This includes visiting the ICA office and providing the necessary documents such as the IPA letter, passport, and proof of enrolment at the educational institution.

It is important to note that the Student’s Pass is only valid for the duration of the course of study, and students will need to renew their Student’s Pass if they wish to continue studying in Singapore. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process and will require students to provide updated documentation such as a new medical examination report and proof of financial ability.

In addition to studying, students on a Singapore study visa may also be allowed to work part-time during their stay in Singapore. However, they will need to obtain permission from their educational institution and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) before starting any part-time work.

Overall, a Singapore study visa can provide an excellent opportunity for international students to study and gain valuable experience in a multicultural and vibrant environment. With proper planning and preparation, the application process can be a smooth and hassle-free experience, and students can focus on their studies and making the most of their time in Singapore.

What is a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa?

A Singapore Study (Short-term) eVisa is a type of visa that allows foreign students to study in Singapore for a short period of time. This visa is also known as a Short-term Visit Pass for Students (STVP) and is issued by the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

The Short-term Visit Pass for Students is designed for foreign students who wish to undertake short-term courses or attend training programs in Singapore. This visa is valid for a period of up to 90 days, depending on the duration of the course of study.

Foreign students who hold a Short-term Visit Pass for Students are allowed to study at approved educational institutions in Singapore, which can include language schools, vocational institutes, and other institutions offering short-term courses. However, they are not permitted to work or engage in any form of employment during their stay in Singapore.

It is important to note that the Short-term Visit Pass for Students is different from the Student's Pass, which is a visa required for foreign students who plan to pursue full-time studies in Singapore. The Student's Pass is valid for the duration of the course of study and allows students to work part-time while studying.

Foreign students who wish to apply for a Short-term Visit Pass for Students must meet the eligibility criteria set by the ICA. This includes being enrolled in an approved course of study at an approved educational institution, having a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity, and having sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Singapore.

To apply for a Short-term Visit Pass for Students, foreign students must submit their application online through the ICA website. They will need to provide a range of supporting documents, including a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, proof of financial means, and a recent passport-sized photograph.

The processing time for a Short-term Visit Pass for Students is usually around 10 working days, although it may take longer during peak periods or if additional documentation is required. The visa application fee is SGD $30.

Overall, a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa provides a great opportunity for foreign students to gain valuable experience and knowledge in a multicultural and vibrant environment. With proper planning and preparation, the application process can be a smooth and hassle-free experience, and students can focus on their studies and making the most of their time in Singapore.

Eligibility Requirements for the Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

To be eligible for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, also known as a Short-term Visit Pass for Students (STVP), foreign students must meet certain requirements set by the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). These requirements include:

  • Enrolled in an approved course of study: Foreign students must be enrolled in an approved course of study at an approved educational institution in Singapore. The course must be a short-term course or training program that requires a stay of less than 90 days.
  • Have a valid passport: Foreign students must have a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into Singapore.
  • Financial means: Foreign students must have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Singapore, including accommodation, transportation, and living expenses. The ICA may require students to provide proof of financial means, such as bank statements, before issuing the Short-term Visit Pass for Students.
  • Good health and character: Foreign students must be in good health and have no criminal record or immigration offenses in Singapore or any other country. Students may be required to undergo a medical examination and provide a certificate of good health before their application is approved.
  • Not engaged in any form of employment: Foreign students on a Short-term Visit Pass for Students are not allowed to work or engage in any form of employment during their stay in Singapore.

It is important to note that these eligibility requirements are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. Foreign students should consult the ICA website or contact the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information on eligibility requirements.

Foreign students who meet the eligibility criteria and wish to apply for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa can do so online through the website. They will need to provide supporting documents, such as a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, proof of financial means, and a recent passport-sized photograph. The visa application fee is SGD $30, and the processing time is usually around 10 working days, although it may take longer during peak periods or if additional documentation is required.

How to Apply for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

Foreign students who wish to apply for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, also known as a Short-term Visit Pass for Students (STVP), can do so online through the (ICA) website. The following is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa:

Step 1: Check eligibility

Before applying for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, foreign students should ensure that they meet the eligibility requirements set by the ICA. These include being enrolled in an approved course of study, having a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity, having sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Singapore, and not engaging in any form of employment during their stay.

Step 2: Prepare supporting documents

Foreign students will need to prepare a range of supporting documents, including a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, proof of financial means, and a recent passport-sized photograph. They may also be required to provide additional documentation, such as a medical certificate, depending on their circumstances.

Step 3: Submit application online

Foreign students can submit their application for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa online through the ICA website. They will need to create an account and complete the application form, providing all necessary details and uploading their supporting documents. The application fee is SGD $30, which can be paid online using a credit or debit card.

Step 4: Wait for processing

Once the application is submitted, it will be processed by the ICA. The processing time for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa is usually around 10 working days, although it may take longer during peak periods or if additional documentation is required. Foreign students can check the status of their application online using their application reference number.

Step 5: Receive eVisa

If the application is approved, the foreign student will receive their Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa via email as an electronic visa (eVisa). The eVisa will include information on the validity period and conditions of the visa, such as the permitted length of stay and restrictions on employment. Foreign students should print out a copy of their eVisa and carry it with them when traveling to Singapore.

In summary, applying for a Singapore Study (Short-term) eVisa is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed online through the ICA website. By ensuring that they meet the eligibility criteria and preparing all necessary supporting documents, foreign students can increase their chances of a successful application and a smooth study experience in Singapore.

Required Documents for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

When applying for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, also known as a Short-term Visit Pass for Students (STVP), foreign students will need to provide a range of supporting documents to demonstrate that they meet the eligibility criteria set by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

The following are the required documents for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa:

  • Valid passport: Foreign students must have a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into Singapore. The passport must also have at least one blank page for the visa endorsement.
  • Passport-sized photograph: A recent passport-sized photograph must be uploaded as part of the online visa application process. The photograph must be taken within the last three months and should be in color, with a white background and no headgear (unless for religious or medical reasons).
  • Letter of acceptance from educational institution: Foreign students must provide a letter of acceptance from the educational institution where they will be studying in Singapore. The letter should include details on the course of study, the duration of the course, and the start and end dates of the program.
  • Proof of financial means: Foreign students must provide evidence that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Singapore. This may include bank statements, scholarship letters, or other financial documents. The ICA may require foreign students to provide proof of funds covering their entire stay in Singapore.
  • Accommodation arrangements: Foreign students must provide details of their accommodation arrangements in Singapore, such as a hotel booking or confirmation of homestay arrangements.
  • Travel itinerary: Foreign students should provide a travel itinerary outlining their planned arrival and departure dates in Singapore, as well as any planned trips outside of Singapore during their stay.
  • Medical certificate (if required): Depending on the student's circumstances, the ICA may require them to provide a medical certificate as evidence of their good health.

Processing Time and Fees for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

The processing time and fees for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa can vary depending on the applicant's country and nationality. Here is some general information on the processing time and fees for this type of visa:-

Processing Time

The average processing time for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa can vary depending on the visa application country and the specific circumstances of the applicant. In general, the processing time can take anywhere from 3 to 20 calendar days.

It is important for applicants to apply for the visa well in advance of their planned travel dates to allow for any potential delays in the processing of the visa application. Applicants should also ensure that they provide all the required documents and information accurately to avoid any processing delays or visa rejections.

Fees

The Singapore Study (Short-term) visa fee can vary depending on the applicant's country and nationality. As of 2023, the visa application fee for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa is SGD 30 (approximately USD 22) per application. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of submitting the visa application.

In addition to the visa application fee, applicants may be required to pay other fees, such as service fees charged by the visa application center, courier fees for document delivery, and fees for any additional services requested. These fees can vary depending on the country where the visa application is being submitted.

Renewing Your Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

If a student wishes to extend their stay in Singapore beyond the validity of their current Study (Short-term) Visa, they may apply for an extension of their visa. The extension is subject to the approval of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and may be granted for a maximum period of 90 days from the date of expiry of the original visa.

To apply for a renewal of their Study (Short-term) Visa, the student must submit their application at least 2 weeks before their current visa expires. The application can be submitted online through the ICA website or at a designated visa application center.

The documents required for a visa renewal application are similar to those required for the initial visa application, and include a valid passport, a completed application form, a recent passport-sized photograph, and proof of financial means to support the student's stay in Singapore. Additionally, the student must provide proof of their enrollment in a recognized educational institution in Singapore.

The visa renewal application fee is SGD 30 (approximately USD 22) and is non-refundable. The processing time for a visa renewal application is usually shorter than that of the initial application, and the student can expect to receive a decision within 3-10 working days.

It is important for students to note that the renewal of their Study (Short-term) Visa is subject to the approval of the ICA, and there is no guarantee that their visa will be renewed. Therefore, it is advisable for students to plan their stay in Singapore carefully and apply for a visa renewal well in advance of their visa expiry date to avoid any disruptions to their studies.

Working Part-Time on a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa

International students who hold a valid Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa are allowed to work part-time in Singapore during their course of study, subject to certain conditions.

Under current regulations, students are allowed to work part-time for up to 16 hours per week during term time, and full-time during vacation periods. However, students must obtain permission from their educational institution before taking up any employment, and the employment must not interfere with their studies.

In addition, students must also obtain a valid work permit before they can start working in Singapore. The work permit is issued by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), and the application must be submitted by the employer on behalf of the student. The employer must also meet certain requirements, such as being registered with the MOM and having a good track record of complying with Singapore's labor laws.

It is important for students to note that they must maintain their student status while working part-time in Singapore. This means that they must attend all their classes and fulfill the academic requirements of their course of study.

Failure to comply with these regulations may result in the revocation of the student's visa and their deportation from Singapore. Therefore, it is important for students to understand and abide by the rules and regulations governing part-time work on a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, and to seek advice from their educational institution or the MOM if they have any questions or concerns.

Benefits of Studying in Singapore on a Short-term Visa

Studying in Singapore on a short-term visa can offer several benefits to international students. Here are some of the advantages of studying in Singapore on a short-term visa:

  • Access to world-class universities and educational institutions: Singapore has a reputation for offering high-quality education, with several universities and educational institutions consistently ranked among the top in the world. Students can choose from a wide range of courses and programs in various fields, including engineering, business, law, and technology.
  • Exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives: Singapore is a multicultural society with a diverse population, and studying in Singapore can expose students to a variety of cultures and perspectives. This can help students develop a global mindset and enhance their understanding of different cultures and ways of life.
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth: Studying in Singapore can provide students with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Students can develop new skills, build their networks, and gain valuable work experience through internships and part-time work opportunities.
  • Safe and stable environment: Singapore is known for being a safe and stable country, with low crime rates and a stable political climate. This can offer a sense of security to international students, who may feel more comfortable studying in a safe and stable environment.
  • Gateway to Southeast Asia: Singapore is located at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, making it an ideal gateway to the region. Students can explore neighboring countries and cultures, and gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and culture.

Overall, studying in Singapore on a short-term visa can offer international students a unique and valuable educational experience, with opportunities for personal and professional growth, exposure to diverse cultures, and access to world-class educational institutions.

Frequently asked questions

A Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Singapore for the purpose of studying or undergoing training courses that last for no more than 30 days.

You can stay in Singapore for the duration of your course, up to a maximum of 30 days.

No, you cannot extend a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a new visa.

Yes, international students with a valid Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa are allowed to work part-time in Singapore, subject to certain conditions. They must obtain permission from their educational institution and a valid work permit from the Ministry of Manpower.

The processing time for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa is usually between 3-20 calendar days, depending on your visa application country.

To be eligible for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, you must have a valid passport, be enrolled in a course or training program, and meet the financial requirements for the duration of your stay in Singapore.

The cost of a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa varies depending on your country and nationality, but typically ranges from 25-100 USD.

Yes, you can apply for a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa online through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.

If your Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa application is rejected, you will receive a letter explaining the reason for the rejection. You may be able to reapply for the visa if you can address the reason for the rejection.

Yes, you can travel outside of Singapore while holding a Singapore Study (Short-term) Visa, but you will need to apply for a new visa if you wish to re-enter Singapore.