Singapore, also known as the “Lion City,” is a destination of immense allure and global significance. Its vibrant culture, economic opportunities, and picturesque landscapes make it a coveted location for business and leisure travellers worldwide. However, for Pakistani passport holders, realising the dream of visiting or conducting business in Singapore requires meticulous planning and adherence to the visa application process.
In this comprehensive guide, Graana.com aim to provide Pakistani citizens with an in-depth understanding of the procedures and requirements associated with obtaining a Singaporean visa. The objective is to ensure that your journey to this remarkable city-state is not only memorable but also hassle-free and in full compliance with Singapore’s immigration regulations.
Types of Singapore Visa for Pakistani
Singapore offers several types of visas to Pakistani nationals, with the two most common categories being Tourist Visas and Business Visas. Let’s discuss these visa types in more detail:
Tourist Visa
Purpose: Tourist visas are intended for individuals who wish to visit Singapore for tourism, leisure, or personal travel purposes.
Duration: The duration of a tourist visa varies but is typically valid for 30 to 90 days, depending on the specific visa granted.
Application Process: Tourist visa applications can be made directly through the Singaporean Embassy or Consulate or authorised travel agents if an invitation from Singapore is not required.
Requirements: Applicants generally need to submit their passport, a completed visa application form, proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay, a return flight ticket, and sometimes proof of accommodation. They may also need to provide a travel itinerary and proof of ties to their home country to demonstrate their intent to return.
Extension: Tourist visas can sometimes be extended for a short period, if necessary, but extensions are usually granted only under exceptional circumstances.
Purpose Limitation: Holders of tourist visas are not permitted to engage in any form of employment or business activities during their stay in Singapore.
Business Visa
Purpose: Business visas are designed for individuals who intend to visit Singapore for business-related activities, such as meetings, conferences, negotiations, or exploring business opportunities.
Duration: Business visa durations can vary but are typically valid for 30 to 90 days of short-term stays.
Application Process: Business visa applications can be submitted directly to the Singaporean Embassy or Consulate. Applicants may also choose to use authorized travel agents for assistance.
Requirements: Applicants typically need to provide a valid passport, a completed visa application form, an invitation letter from a Singaporean company or organisation, proof of sufficient funds for their stay, and a return flight ticket. Additionally, they may need to show evidence of business ties and the purpose of their visit.
Extension: Business visas can sometimes be extended if the need arises for a longer stay. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis.
Business Activities: Holders of business visas are allowed to engage in specific business-related activities but are generally prohibited from taking up employment in Singapore.
How to Apply?
To apply for a Singaporean visa, one must have a Pakistani passport. If you do not have a Pakistani passport, you should submit all the documents required for a Pakistani passport, and then apply for one. Once you have a passport, you must submit specific documents for a visa to the Consulate General at Lakson Square, Building No 2, Sarwar Shaheed Road, Karachi, Pakistan. You can download the application form from this link:
https://www.ica.gov.sg/cms/files/Form14A.pdf
Applicants are required to provide the following documents
- A letter addressed to the Consulate General explaining the purpose and duration of the intended visit.
- A letter of introduction must be included, containing the name, NRIC (National Registration Identity Card) of the local contact, and the designation of the local contact. This information is mandatory for the acceptance of the letter.
- A valid return ticket and a valid visa will be presented upon entry into Singapore.
The information provided in the application is submitted to Singaporean Immigration for approval, after which the visa is granted. The visa processing time is typically five working days, although it may take longer under certain circumstances.
For residents outside Karachi, the visa fee must be paid in the form of a ‘Demand Draft Payable in Karachi’ made out to the ‘Consulate General of the Republic of Singapore.’ The total visa fee amounts to 15,000 PKR.
Application Acceptance and Delivery Timetable
Applications are received on the following days:
| Days | Timings |
| Monday-Thursday | 10:00 am -12: 30 pm 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm |
| Friday | 10:00 am -12:30 pm |
Delivery of Passports
| Days | Timings |
| Monday to Friday | 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm |
The consulate remains closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
Visa Application Process Through Agent
In addition to applying for a visa through the Singaporean Embassy, applicants can also utilise the services of agents if they don’t have a mandatory invitation from Singapore. The applicant must provide specific documents to the travel agent to facilitate the visa process.
The travel agent takes care of filling out the Visa Application form on behalf of the applicant and indicates the purpose of the visit on the form when applying for the visa. Once the visa is ready, the applicant is promptly notified and asked to collect it.
The fee charged by travel agents typically ranges from 7,000 to 12,000 PKR, covering both the consulate fee and the invitation fee. Visa processing is typically completed within 3-5 working days.
Visa Fee
Tourist Visa
- If applied through the Consulate): PKR 4,600
- If applied through the Agent: PKR 15,000
Business Visa: Same as mentioned above
Required Documents for Singaporean Business Visa
- A Letter of Introduction containing the company’s address, telephone number, official company stamp, and the representative’s NRIC (National Registration Identity Card)
- A printed copy of Singapore’s registered company profile must be no older than 6 months from the submission date. However, these documents are not required if a Singaporean government agency invites the applicant.
- One completed application form
- Two recent passport-sized photographs with a white background
- A letter from the applicant addressed the Consulate General, explaining the purpose of the visit
- A separate letter of introduction
- A confirmed round-trip ticket
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do Pakistani passport holders require a visa to visit Singapore?
A: Yes, Pakistani passport holders generally require a visa to enter Singapore for tourism, business, or other purposes.
Q: How do I apply for a Singaporean visa from Pakistan?
A: You can apply for a Singaporean visa by submitting your application either directly to the Singaporean Embassy or Consulate or through authorised travel agents.
Q: What are the basic requirements for a Singaporean visa application?
A: The basic requirements usually include a valid passport, visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of sufficient funds, a return flight ticket, and a statement of the purpose of your visit.
Q: How long does processing a Singaporean visa from Pakistan take?
A: The processing time for a Singaporean visa typically ranges from 3 to 5 working days, but it may vary depending on various factors and individual cases.
Q: Can I extend my Singaporean visa if I need more time in Singapore?
A: Extensions are possible but are granted on a case-by-case basis, and approval is not guaranteed. You should apply for an extension well in advance of your visa’s expiration date.
Q: Is it mandatory to have an invitation letter to apply for a Singaporean visa?
A: In most cases, having an invitation letter from a Singaporean host or organisation is not mandatory, but it can support your visa application, especially for business or family visits.
Q: How long is the typical validity of a Singaporean tourist visa for Pakistani citizens?
A: The validity of a tourist visa for Pakistani citizens can vary, but it is often issued for stays of 30 to 90 days (about 3 months).
Q: Can I work in Singapore with a tourist or business visa?
A: No, you are generally not allowed to work in Singapore with a tourist or business visa. Specific work visas are required for employment.
Q: Are there any additional requirements for business visa applicants?
A: Business visa applicants may need to provide an invitation from a Singaporean company, a letter of introduction, and details about their business activities in Singapore.
Q: What should I do if my visa application is denied?
A: If your visa application is denied, you can reapply with additional documentation or seek guidance from the Singaporean Embassy or Consulate to clarify the reason for the denial.
Q: How much is Singapore visit visa fee for Pakistani?
A:The Singapore visa fee for Pakistani nationals is currently PKR 16,500.
To read a guide to Malaysia visas for Pakistani people, visit Graana.com.
