Despite its diminutive nature, Singapore is a monster when it comes to business. Being ranked constantly at the top of the Ease of Doing Business Index, the country has one of the easiest and the freest business regulations. The Singapore business visa has allowed several businessmen to explore the business opportunities.
The business visa is an endorsement that lets individuals travel to Singapore to take part in business-related activities such as meetings, conferences, trade fairs, etc. A large number of nationalities have visa-free entry into the country. However, since India is not among them, a Singapore business visa for Indian citizens is a mandatory requirement to travel to the nation. The permit is issued in the form of an e visa for Indians and can be granted for a duration of 30 days or even up to 90 days with single-entry or multiple-entries based on your choice and the decision of the High Commission.
The application process for the Singapore business visa from India is quite complicated. In fact, it is not possible for you to apply directly to the Singapore High Commission. You can apply it through a local contact in Singapore, through a strategic partner in Singapore, or through one of the authorized visa agents in India.
Before starting the application, you must first check that you are eligible to apply for the business permit. After that, you can proceed to make the application as follows -
Ensure that you provide only genuine documents and fill-in correct information. Providing false information or fake documents can lead to visa rejection.
In order to be able to successfully apply for the Singapore business visa for Indians , you must meet the following criteria -
As per the Singapore business visa requirements from India , you must submit the following documents for a successful application -
The Singapore business visa photo requirements state that the photographs submitted must meet the following specifications -
The time taken to process the business e visa is only 1 working day. However, this can vary significantly based on several factors such as the volume of applications at the mission, the number of entries, the duration and validity, and so on. However, the High Commission expects that you apply for the visa at least 1 month prior to your date of intended travel.
The fees for the Singapore business permit is dependent on the foreign exchange rates, as well as the service charges to be paid to the authorized travel agent. As a result, ensure that you check the exact amount before starting the application.
| Entry | Stay Duration | Validity | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple entry Normal | 30 days | 2 years | 2650.0 |
Once you have submitted your application to an authorized travel agency, they will submit the application at the High Commission of Singapore in New Delhi, or at one of the Consulates in Mumbai or Chennai, as per the jurisdiction. In certain cases, you may have to attend an interview at the mission. After this, the respective mission will process your application.
Once your application is approved, your visa agent can download the e visa from the respective portal and send it to you. You must then take a print out of this and carry it during your travel.
To know the status of your business permit application, you can click here and enter the reference number and your passport number. However, since the visa agency will be making the application, it is easier if you contact them to know the status.
On successfully obtaining your business permit, you must keep in mind the following few points to ensure that you have a hassle-free journey -
Before you travel -
At the border
When you enter Singapore
You can extend the Singaporean business permit easily. You may apply for an extension by using the same ICA portal you have used to get the application form. However, you will have to meet certain criteria for it, as well as submit certain documents. If you are unable to extend your permit, you must leave the country immediately.
Once you have expired your business permit, you will not be able to stay back any longer. If you wish to stay longer, you must apply for an extension in advance. Staying back in the country after your visa expiry is considered as an offence and can lead to hefty fines or even deportation.
As per the regulations, there is no requirement for a medical test for Indian citizens since the stay duration is less than 1 year. Only if the stay exceeds a year, you will have to provide yellow fever vaccination certificates. In either case, it is recommended that you get a medical test done before travelling abroad.
No, it is not possible to convert the business visa into a work permit. You are also not allowed to work while you are on the business category. If you require to work in Singapore, you must return back to your home country and apply for a work permit.
The High Commission requirements do not mention a particular amount required for applying for the business visa. As per the requirements, you are simply expected to possess sufficient funds to support the entire duration of your stay. You must also make sure that the funds are easily accessible to you and that your transaction history is stable.
Even though the processing time for the business category is quite short, due to several complications and the indirect approach to applying for the visa, the High Commission of Singapore recommends that you start the application about 1 month before your intended date of travel.
