Singapore
February 2011
This summary is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered an authoritative guide on how to obtain work authorization in Singapore. The intent is to give the reader a general overview of the process only. Procedures and requirements may have changed since the writing of this article or may have been inaccurately characterized in it. For current and detailed information regarding the topics below, as well as documentary requirements, processing times, post-arrival and departure requirements, penalties for non-compliance, allowances for accompanying family members, and any other information pertaining to your specific needs, please contact your Pro-Link GLOBAL immigration professional.
BUSINESS VISITOR
Permitted Activities - Business visitors must generally limit their activities to the following:
- Attending business meetings or discussions
- Making sales calls to potential Singapore clients provided that the visitor represents a commercial entity outside of Singapore
- Attending seminars or "fact-finding" meetings
Type of Business Visas – The visa type will depend on the nationality of the traveler. The following are examples of the types of business visa that are available to the business traveler.
- Visit pass
- Entry visa
Basic Requirements –
- Intention of a genuine visit for business and not for paid employment;
- Good health and character;
- Evidence that there are no restrictions on his or her traveling to Singapore;
- No intention to permanently reside in Singapore;
- A ticket for onward travel from Singapore;
- Proof of funds.
Estimated Processing Times – This varies by diplomatic post and country.
Maximum Time On Visa - This visa allows business people to make a short business visit to Singapore for thirty days during the visa validity period. Visas can be extended in country.
Typical Documents Required –
All travelers need to present the following documents to officers in immigration clearance:
- a valid passport or other acceptable travel document
- a valid visa or authority to enter Singapore
EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
Basic Requirements - The principal immigration category for temporary employment in Singapore is the Employment Pass – of which there are several types. This is a category for employers to sponsor approved skilled workers to work in Singapore on a temporary basis.
Who is this visa for? - This visa is for employers who would like to employ overseas workers to fill skilled and managerial positions in Singapore.
Process Overview - The process for obtaining an Employment Pass involves a three step process summarized below.
- Employment Pass application
- Issuance of Notification Letter post arrival (note that, depending on the case, a medical may be required and should be done immediately post arrival, before the issuance of the Notification Letter)
- Registration of Biometric Data post arrival
- Long Term Pass card collection
Estimated Processing Time – one to two weeks for EP Online registered companies, or six to eight week for companies using the manual process.
Validity periods - With this visa you can employ overseas workers for up to three years.
Family Members –Secondary/ family dependants will be issued dependent passes and will need additional authorization to work and study.
