Is the Singapore Visa Free for Greek Citizens?

As of 2023, Greek passport holders are able to enter Singapore without a visa for up to 30 days [2]. This applies only for tourism and business purposes – those looking to work or study in Singapore will need to apply for the appropriate long-term visa.

Some key things to note about the Singapore visa waiver for Greeks:

• The 30 day visa-free period is only valid for up to 90 days from your last date of entry into Singapore. This means you can make multiple short trips within a 90 day period, but cannot stay for longer than 30 days at a time.
• Visa waiver eligibility is valid for those entering Singapore by air or sea. Land border crossings do require visas for Greeks.
• Your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining in order to enter Singapore without a visa.
• Visa-free entry also applies to Greece passport holders transiting through Singapore, provided you have onward tickets and meet all other entry requirements.

So in summary – yes, Greek citizens can visit Singapore without applying for a tourist or business visa as long as they meet the eligibility criteria!

Applying for an eVisa Instead of Visa-Free Entry

While Greek passport holders are eligible for 30 days visa-free entry to Singapore, some travelers may prefer to apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) beforehand for extra peace of mind and convenience [3].

An Singapore eVisa can be obtained easily online via the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority website. Applications are usually processed within 1-3 working days and the eVisa will be sent to you via email.

Some benefits of applying for a Singapore eVisa include:

• Pre-approval of entry: With an eVisa granted beforehand, you have the certainty of knowing you have been approved to enter Singapore, avoiding any potential issues at immigration.
• Multiple entries: The Singapore eVisa allows for multiple entries into the country within the validity period, which can be handy for frequent travelers.
• Longer validity: The eVisa provides visa-free entry for up to 30 days per entry for either 30 days or 90 days from date of issue. The longer 90 day validity allows you to spread out trips over a longer timeframe.
• Smooth immigration clearance: With eVisa approval beforehand, the immigration process upon arrival is streamlined as your information is electronically linked to your passport.

So while not essential, applying for an electronic visa can provide extra convenience and peace of mind for Greek citizens looking to visit Singapore.

Documents Required for Visa-Free Entry

As a Greek citizen visiting Singapore visa-free, you will need to have the following documents ready to present upon arrival at immigration:

• Valid Greece passport: As outlined earlier, your passport must have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of entry into Singapore. It should also have at least 2 blank pages.
• Onward travel booking: You will need to show proof of onward travel booking within 30 days to exit Singapore, such as a flight ticket.
• Sufficient funds: Be prepared to show that you have enough funds to sufficiently cover the duration of your stay in Singapore. This can be in the form of cash, traveler’s checks, or credit cards.
• Accommodation booking: Have documentation showing your accommodation arrangements for some or all of your time in Singapore. This proves you have lodging plans.
• Complete arrival card: Fill in the Singapore disembarkation/embarkation card issued on your incoming flight with your personal details.

As long as you have all the right documents, you will be granted 30 days visa-free entry as a Greek national upon arrival into Singapore.

Things to Note When Entering Singapore

When passing through immigration control in Singapore, there are some helpful things to keep in mind:

• The immigration officer may ask you questions about the purpose and duration of your visit to Singapore to determine if you meet the visa-free entry conditions. Answer clearly and honestly.
• Be sure to have all your documents ready in advance so the immigration process is quick and simple. Any lack of documentation can delay clearance or lead to visa-free entry being denied.
• Double check that your passport has over 6 months validity and enough blank pages before departing Greece. This will avoid any problems at Singapore immigration.
• Any attempt to overstay or work illegally can lead to fines, blacklisting, and even jail time in Singapore. Abide strictly by the 30 day limitation.
• Be cooperative and treat immigration officers respectfully. Singapore takes security and immigration compliance very seriously.

Following these tips will ensure your visa-free entry into Singapore as a Greek citizen goes smoothly without any unwanted hassles or delays.

Travelling to Singapore as a Minor or With Children

There are some specific visa requirements for Greek minors and children seeking to enter Singapore:

• Children under the age of 12: Do not need their own passport to enter Singapore visa-free. They only need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and have their name included in the guardian’s passport.
• Children aged 12 and above: Must have their own valid Greece passport to qualify for visa-free entry to Singapore.
• Unaccompanied minors: Any child under 18 traveling alone or without at least one parent must have a legal guardian letter authorizing travel, along with additional supporting documents. Contact the Singapore Immigration Authority for details.
• Children born in Singapore: Even those with Greek citizenship will still require a visa to enter Singapore if they were born in Singapore.

So in summary, visa requirements are more strict for minors and children compared to adult Greek passport holders. Having the proper documentation will ensure smooth entry for the whole family.

Long-Term Visas for Greece Citizens

While Greek passport holders can visit Singapore for up to 30 days without a visa, those looking to move to Singapore or stay longer term for work, study, or residence purposes require specialized long-stay visas [4].

Some examples include:

• Employment Pass: For foreign professionals working in Singapore. Valid up to 2 years.
• EntrePass: For eligible foreign entrepreneurs looking to start businesses in Singapore.
• S Pass: For mid-level skilled staff. Valid up to 2 years.
• Student Pass: For international students studying at approved Singapore schools and universities.
• Permanent Residence: For those seeking to reside in Singapore long-term without looking to give up Greek citizenship.
• Dependant Visas: For spouses and children under 21 of someone holding an Employment, S, or EntrePass.

The eligibility criteria, application process, and document requirements vary significantly across these long-term visa types. Greece nationals should engage an authorized visa agent in Singapore for guidance.

Planning in advance is essential when applying for a long stay visa. Processing times range from 1 week up to several months depending on visa type, so be sure to submit your application well before your intended travel date.

Conclusion

We hope this detailed guide has shed light on whether Greek citizens need a visa when planning travels to Singapore. To summarize:

• As of 2023, Greek passport holders can enter Singapore visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism and business.
• An eVisa can be obtained for extra convenience but is not mandatory.
• Have all your travel documents ready before departing Greece for smooth arrival.
• Specific visa rules apply for minors and children below the age of 21.
• Long-term stays in Singapore require specialized visas like the Employment Pass or EntrePass.

With proper planning, Greeks can enjoy hassle-free travel and stays in one of Asia’s most vibrant countries. Have a wonderful time exploring the sights, sounds and flavors of Singapore!

References

[1] Singapore Tourism Board Annual Report 2018/2019. https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/home-pages/about-stb/annual-report.html

[2] Visit Singapore – Passport & Visas. https://www.visitsingapore.com/travel-guide-tips/getting-around/passport-and-visas/

[3] Singapore Electronic Travel Authorization. https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-depart/entry_requirements/visa-requirements/visa-free-transit-facility

[4] Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore – Long Term Passes. https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-depart/ltvp