Obtaining a Singapore visa while holding a US green card can seem complicated, but with some preparation and knowledge of the requirements, the process is very manageable. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting a visa for Singapore as a US green card holder.
Overview of Singapore visas for US green card holders
Singapore has a visa waiver program with the United States that allows US green card holders to enter Singapore without a visa for up to 30 days. However, if you need to stay in Singapore longer than 30 days, or if you will be working or studying, you will need to apply for an appropriate Singapore visa.
The main types of visas available to US green card holders are:
- Visit Pass – For social or business visits up to 30 days
- Miscellaneous Work Pass – For short-term work assignments or business activities
- Employment Pass – For longer-term professional employment
- S Pass – For mid-level skilled workers
- EntrePass – For entrepreneurs wanting to start a business
- Student Pass – For studying full-time in Singapore
- Dependant’s Pass – For dependent family members of Employment Pass holders
Visa requirements for US green card holders
To be eligible for any of these visas, you must have a valid US green card. Singapore does not issue visas based on pending green card applications.
In addition, you will need:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Documents supporting your visa application (employment contract, business plan, student acceptance letter, etc)
- Meet financial requirements – some income or savings
- Clear criminal record and good health
- Specific qualifications for Employment Passes
The visa application process starts online. You will need to create an account through the Ministry of Manpower’s Electronic Services Portal.
Long-term employment passes
If you want to work long-term in Singapore, the Employment Pass (EP) is the main visa sponsored by employers for professional foreign talent.
To qualify, you need:
- A suitable job offer from a Singapore company
- Minimum salary of S$4,500 per month
- Acceptable qualifications – degree, professional credentials, specialist skills
The S Pass is for mid-level skilled workers who earn at least S$2,500 per month. The qualifications are a diploma or some technical training.
Your employer will apply for the EP or S Pass online by submitting details about you, the job, and their company. Approval can take from 2 weeks to 2 months.
An EntrePass can be issued to eligible entrepreneurs wanting to start and operate a new business in Singapore. You’ll need a solid business plan and some paid-up capital.
Dependents and families
Once you are issued an EP or S Pass, eligible dependent family members can also apply for Dependant’s Passes to legally reside in Singapore. This includes:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children under 21
- Parents aged 65 and above
- Common law partners
You must demonstrate you can support your dependents financially. Dependant’s Passes are tied to the validity of your work pass.
Other key visa types
The Visit Pass allows US green card holders to enter Singapore for social or business visits of up to 30 days without applying for a visa in advance.
For short-term work assignments, business negotiations, attending conferences, etc, a Miscellaneous Work Pass can be issued for 6 months with possibility of extension.
For full-time study, international students can apply for a Student Pass tied to the academic institution and program.
Renewing Singapore visas
Most Singapore work visas and passes can be renewed as long as you continue meeting the eligibility criteria.
- Employment Passes are generally issued for up to 2 years initially, with renewable 1 year periods after that.
- S Passes are issued for 1-2 years at a time.
- EntrePasses may be renewed if the business continues to meet certain benchmarks.
- Student Passes can be renewed each academic year.
Be sure to start the renewal process well in advance of your visa expiration date.
Conclusion
US green card holders have excellent opportunities to live, work, run a business, or study in Singapore with the appropriate visa or pass. Pay close attention to the specific requirements and application process for each type of visa, and be sure to plan the timing of your initial application and renewals appropriately. With some focus and organization, US permanent residents can successfully navigate Singapore’s visa system.
References
Ministry of Manpower Singapore. “Passes for foreign employees.” https://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits
Singapore Economic Development Board. “Singapore grants US GCs and citizens visa free short term entry.” https://www.edb.gov.sg/en/news-and-resources/insights/visa-requirements/grants-and-visa-exemption.html
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority. “Student’s Pass.” https://www.ica.gov.sg/pass/student-pass
Contact Singapore. “Singapore Visas and Passes.” https://www.contactsingapore.sg/en/why-singapore/ready-to-invest/investor-guide/singapore-visas-passes
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.
