Singapore Visa 2026: Requirements, Cost & Online Application Guide

Singapore, the gleaming city-state at the crossroads of Asia, welcomes millions of visitors each year with one of the world's most efficient immigration systems. Known for its impeccable cleanliness, world-famous hawker food, stunning architecture, and seamless blend of cultures, Singapore offers an unforgettable travel experience. Understanding the entry requirements before your visit ensures a smooth arrival at the renowned Changi Airport, consistently rated the world's best.

Singapore's visa policy is highly accessible, with citizens of many countries enjoying visa-free entry for tourism and short business visits. For nationalities requiring visas, Singapore offers an electronic visa (e-Visa) system that simplifies the application process. All visitors, regardless of visa status, must complete the SG Arrival Card - a digital entry form that has replaced the traditional paper arrival/departure card.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Singapore entry requirements in 2026, including visa-free eligibility, e-Visa application procedures, the mandatory SG Arrival Card process, and essential travel tips for making the most of your visit to the Lion City. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, shopping, or as a transit hub to other destinations, this guide will prepare you for a seamless Singapore experience.

Singapore maintains a streamlined entry system designed for efficiency and security. The requirements you face depend primarily on your nationality, with the city-state offering visa-free access to citizens of most developed countries and major economies. For visitors from countries requiring visas, Singapore's e-Visa system provides a straightforward online application process.

Regardless of nationality, all visitors to Singapore must complete the electronic SG Arrival Card within 3 days before arrival. This digital form has replaced paper immigration cards and links to Singapore's electronic immigration system. The health declaration component, introduced during the pandemic, has been retained to monitor traveler health.

Singapore's entry rules are strictly enforced. Even visa-free travelers can be denied entry if they cannot demonstrate sufficient funds, confirmed accommodation, onward travel, or a clear purpose of visit. Understanding and meeting all requirements ensures a smooth immigration experience at Changi.

Singapore offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 150 countries and territories. The duration of visa-free stay varies by nationality, ranging from 14 to 90 days. Major nationalities enjoying visa-free access include:

Visa-free travelers must still meet entry requirements including valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), completed SG Arrival Card, proof of sufficient funds, confirmed accommodation, and onward/return travel. Immigration officers have discretion to grant shorter stays or deny entry if requirements aren't clearly met.

For business activities, visa-free entry covers meetings, conferences, contract negotiations, and similar short-term business purposes. It does not permit employment or engaging in paid work. Business travelers may be asked to demonstrate the business nature of their visit with meeting invitations, business cards, or company letters.

The 14-day visa-free entry for Indian nationals requires travelers to hold a valid visa or long-term pass from certain developed countries (Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, UK, or USA). Indians not meeting these conditions require an e-Visa.

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry must apply for a Singapore visa before traveling. The most common type is the e-Visa, which can be applied for online through authorized platforms. Some nationalities must apply through a Singapore embassy or consulate, or require a local sponsor.

The SG Arrival Card is an electronic form that ALL visitors to Singapore must complete within 3 days before arrival. This applies regardless of nationality, visa status, or purpose of visit. The digital form has replaced the traditional paper disembarkation/embarkation card that was previously distributed on flights.

The SG Arrival Card collects your travel details, accommodation information, and health declaration. It's linked to your passport electronically, so there's no need to print it - immigration officers access your submission digitally when processing your arrival.

If your nationality requires a Singapore visa, here's the process for e-Visa applications:

Processing times vary but typically range from 3-5 business days for straightforward applications. Complex cases or applications requiring additional documentation may take longer. Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your travel date to allow buffer time for any issues.

For Chinese nationals, the Singapore visa application can be done through approved travel agencies in China or via the Singapore Consulate/Embassy. The process has been streamlined significantly in recent years, with many applications approved within 3-5 days.

The official Singapore visa fee is SGD 30 (approximately $22 USD). This is a government fee payable for all visa applications. Travel agents and visa service providers may charge additional service fees for processing assistance, typically ranging from SGD 20-100 depending on the service level.

Visa fees are non-refundable even if the application is rejected. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submission to avoid rejection. If your visa is rejected, you may reapply after addressing the issues that led to rejection, but will need to pay the fee again.

Singapore packs an incredible amount into its compact size. Here are the must-experience highlights:

Beyond the famous attractions, Singapore rewards exploration. Walk the Southern Ridges canopy bridges, explore heritage shophouses in Tiong Bahru, discover the tranquil botanic gardens (UNESCO World Heritage), or take the ferry to Pulau Ubin for a glimpse of old Singapore. The city's compact size means you can experience multiple neighborhoods in a single day.

For foodies, Singapore is paradise. The hawker culture is UNESCO-listed, and you can taste cuisines from across Asia - Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan, and more - often perfected over generations. Don't miss chicken rice, laksa, chili crab, char kway teow, and roti prata. The best food is often the cheapest at hawker centers!