Getting the necessary visa is one of the several preparations involved when dealing with a trip to Singapore. You will need either an e-Visa or a traditional visa depending on your country of residence and why you are visiting. So, it is important to know the difference between both these types of visas which will enable a smooth travel experience.
Differences Between the Singapore e-Visa and a Traditional Visa
What is a Singapore e-Visa?
A Singapore e-Visa is an electronic visa to Singapore for eligible travelers who want to apply Singapore e-visa 100% online without going to a consulate or embassy. It enables applicants to submit their visa request online, making the application process for short-term travelers easier, giving them more time to plan their trip. The e-Visa will usually be sent in PDF format and must be printed out in order to be presented upon arrival in Singapore.
Advantages:
● It is processed in 3 working days
● Entirely online application.
● Less expensive than traditional visas.
● Perfect for a weekend (business, tourism, etc.).
● No need for in-person interviews.
● Multiple entry visas can be issued.
● Application status can be easily checked online.
Disadvantages:
● Visit for short term only
● This is not for all nationalities.
● Very little ability to shift things around or extend.
● Restrictions may apply during re-entry.
What is a Traditional Singapore Visa?
Under a traditional Singapore visa, applicants must submit paper documents at a Singaporean immigration office or an authorized visa agent. This process might include personal appointments and interviews. Longer stays, jobs, and anything else not in the e-Visa program typically require traditional visas.
Advantages:
● This is suitable for long-term stays (work, study, etc.).
● More room for extensions and alterations.
● Open to all citizenships.
● Accommodates specialized types of visas (i.e. employment, student)
● Allows longer stays than average e-Visa duration.
● Allows applying for long-term passes (e.g. work passes, student passes)
● With this application you get greater embassy support and personalized guidance.
Disadvantages:
● Longer processing time (several weeks).
● Travel and courier fees add to the cost.
● You must physically submit documents.
● Additional in-person interview may be required.
Comparison
| Comparison Factor | e-Visa | Traditional Visa |
| Application Process | Apply online through ICA website or an authorized agent. Simple online submission. | Submit physical documents to embassy or consulate. May require an interview. |
| Processing Time | Processed within 3 working days. | Processed over several weeks, depending on nationality and application complexity. |
| Ease of Application | Quick and easy application process, no need for in-person visits | Requires submission of physical documents and potentially in-person interviews |
| Cost | Cheaper due to online processing. | More expensive due to travel, couriers, and possible agency fees |
| Required Documents | Passport, passport-size photographs, accommodation proof, and return ticket. | Passport, passport-size photographs, accommodation proof, return ticket, financial statements, employment letters, and travel itinerary. |
| Duration of Stay | Valid for 63 days for single-entry, 30 days for multiple-entry. | Allows longer stays, depending on the type of visa (e.g., work or long-term pass |
| Single vs Multiple Entry | Can be issued as single-entry or multiple-entry, based on nationality and purpose | Can be issued as single-entry or multiple-entry, but subject to embassy discretion |
| Ideal Scenarios | Ideal for short visits like business, tourism, or medical consultations | Ideal for those seeking to stay long-term for work, school, or family purposes |
| Eligibility Criteria | Available for eligible nationalities. Not applicable for long-term visas or certain countries. | Eligibility based on nationality and the specific type of visa being applied for. |
| Approval | Approval rate is generally high for eligible applicants. | Approval/rejection rates may vary depending on applicant |
| Rejection Rate | Rejection is rare. | background and embassy requirements |
| Flexibility | Limited flexibility; generally, no extensions or changes once issued | More flexibility for extensions or changes to visa once issued. |
| Visa Tracking | Visa status can be tracked online after application. | Visa status cannot always be tracked online; communication from the embassy is required. |
| Re-entry Restrictions | Re-entry restrictions may apply depending on nationality and visa type. | Re-entry restrictions depend on visa type and applicant’s travel history. |
| Post-Visa Support | Post-visa support is limited, generally requires re-application for changes. | Post-visa support can be better; assistance available for extensions or modifications through the embassy. |
Choosing the Right Visa for Your Needs
For travelers headed to the country for a short term, and who qualify for the e-Visa, the e-Visa provides a practical and fast option. For more extended stays, or for specific purposes, the traditional visa route is more appropriate. Always make sure that you use legitimate services and give the correct information to prevent any delays or difficulties.
Conclusion
Don’t be confused with the e-Visa and other traditional visa options of Singapore. When you understand your requirements and meet your eligibility, you can easily apply for the visa to fit your needs within Singapore visa rules.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a Singapore e-Visa and a traditional visa?
Singapore e-Visa is processed online and is also suitable for short visits. A traditional visa is one that you present to an embassy or consulate and is either for a longer stay or for specific purposes.
2. How can I check the status of my Singapore visa application?
You can check your Singapore visa status using your reference number and passport information from your account in the application portal. Just interior reference number on www.mfa.gov.sg and find out the latest details
3. Can I apply for a Singapore visa online?
Yes, eligible travelers can apply for a Singapore visa online via approved visa agents or the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website; www.ica.gov.sg. It is extremely safe and secure being the official website of the country.
4. What should I do if my Singapore visa application is pending for a long time?
If your application is under processing for a long time, you can call visa application center or Singapore embassy/consulate for your visa status. They will provide an immediate update on the application and will also share tips for any discrepancies or mistakes if needed.
5. Is a visa required for transiting through Singapore?
A visa will not be needed if you don’t exit the transit area and have an onward ticket. If you have to clear immigration, however, you might need a visa.
6. Can I extend my Singapore visa once issued?
No Singapore does not permit the extending of visa issued. If your current one is expired or fully used, then you have to apply for a new one.
7. What is the validity period of a Singapore e-Visa?
The e-Visa for Singapore is valid for 63 days after the issue date, with a maximum stay of 30 days per entry.
8. Do I need to print my e-Visa before traveling to Singapore?
Yes, travelers need to print their e-Visa and show it at the time of arrival in Singapore. No digital copies on mobile devices are allowed.