Syrian passport holders need to obtain a proper visa before traveling to Singapore, even if it’s just for tourism or a short-term business trip.
Singapore does not have a visa waiver program or grant visas on arrival for Syrian citizens. The only way for a Syrian to enter Singapore legally is to apply for and receive an appropriate visa in advance through the Singapore embassy.
Some key points:
- Syrian citizens are NOT eligible for visa-free entry to Singapore, unlike citizens of EU countries, the USA, Canada, etc.
- Syria and Singapore do not currently have a bilateral visa waiver agreement.
- Syrians cannot obtain a visa on arrival at Singapore’s airport or other ports of entry.
- All Syrian nationals must secure the proper visa before departing for Singapore. This applies to short tourist visits, business trips, and long-term stays.
Types of Visas Available
Syrian citizens wishing to visit Singapore must obtain one of these visas in advance through application to their nearest Singapore embassy:
- Tourist visa – For short visits and vacations in Singapore. Valid up to 30 days. Extensions may be possible.
- Business visa – For short business trips, meetings, conferences, training. Valid up to 3 months.
- Work visa – For Syrian citizens who wish to work in Singapore. Strict requirements.
- Student visa – For students attending school or university in Singapore.
- Permanent Residence – For long-term residency and possibly citizenship. Very difficult to obtain.
The specific requirements, documents, and application process vary by visa type. Syrians should work closely with the Singapore embassy in their region to apply for the appropriate visa for their situation. The process can take weeks or months, so early planning is essential.
Conclusion
Syrian passport holders unfortunately still need to obtain visas prior to travel to Singapore. The Singapore government does not extend visa-free entry or visas on arrival to citizens of Syria at this time. Syrians must apply for tourist, business, work or other visas in advance through lengthy application processes.
References
Singapore Government Immigration & Checkpoints Authority, “Countries/Regions With Visa Exemption and Visa Required for Foreign Visitors” https://www.ica.gov.sg/visitor/visitor_entryvisa
Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “Syria Travel Advice” https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Countries-Regions/M/Syria/Travel-Page
International Air Transport Association (IATA), “Travel Center – Singapore Visa Information” https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/SG-Singapore-visa-passport-health-travel-document-requirements.htm
Wikipedia, “Visa Policy of Singapore” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Singapore
Goh Jun Cheng is the chief staff writer for SingaporeAirport.com. Jun Cheng graduated with a degree in journalism from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore.
He has over 5 years of experience writing about aviation, tourism, and lifestyle topics relevant to locals and visitors in Singapore. His articles provide insights into the rich culture, cuisine, and attractions of Singapore. Jun Cheng is an avid traveler who has visited over 15 countries.
When he is not writing or traveling, he enjoys photography, trying new foods, and hiking. As a longtime Singapore resident, Jun Cheng is passionate about sharing hidden gems and perspectives about his home country.
