Planning to stay in Singapore for an extended period? A Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) might be the right option for you. This pass allows eligible foreigners to live in Singapore for longer durations, usually for family-related reasons.
The Singapore Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) application process is straightforward and can be completed online, making it convenient for applicants worldwide.
Whether you’re joining a spouse, parent, or looking to stay after graduation, the LTVP offers a pathway to establish yourself in Singapore.
You’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria and provide necessary documents to support your application. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) carefully reviews each case to ensure applicants meet the requirements.
Once approved, you’ll enjoy various benefits, including the ability to work with a Letter of Consent from the Ministry of Manpower. This pass opens doors to experiencing Singapore’s vibrant culture, world-class education, and thriving job market.
Key Takeaways
You can apply for an LTVP online through the official ICA website
Eligibility depends on your relationship to a Singapore citizen or permanent resident
The LTVP allows for extended stays and potential employment opportunities in Singapore
Eligibility Criteria
Getting a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) depends on meeting certain rules. These include who can sponsor you, such as Singapore Citizens or Singapore Permanent Residents, your own qualifications, and proving your relationship to the sponsor.
For Singapore citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents, you can sponsor your non-resident spouse. You’re strongly advised to finish the Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment before getting married.
Pass holders earning over $12,000 monthly can also apply for an LTVP for their parents.
Applicant Qualifications
As an LTVP applicant, you must fit into certain categories. You can be:
Your relationship to the sponsor is key. You'll need to prove this connection during the application process.
Dependants and Relationship Proof
When applying for an LTVP, you must show proof of your relationship to the sponsor. This might include:
Marriage certificates for spouses
Birth certificates for children
Legal documents for adopted or step-children
For common-law spouses, you may need to provide evidence of your relationship. This could be joint bank accounts or shared living arrangements.
Handicapped children may need medical reports to support their application. These should show why they need long-term care in Singapore.
Application Process
The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) application involves submitting required documents, following guidelines, and paying fees. You need to prepare carefully and provide accurate information to increase your chances of approval.
Both the applicant and the sponsor can track the application status using the specific Foreign Identification Number (FIN), allowing them to monitor the progress and understand that processing times can differ significantly.
Submission Guidelines
To apply for an LTVP, you must submit your application online using Singpass or other accepted credentials. Make sure to fill out all sections of the form completely and truthfully. Double-check your information before submitting.
The processing time for LTVP applications is typically six weeks if all required documents are provided, including the foreigner’s passport, doctor’s memo stating medical conditions if applicable, and authorised person’s signatures. Some cases may take longer. Be patient during this period.
Both applicants and sponsors can check the application status online using the Foreign Identification Number (FIN) to track the progress of their LTVP application.
For spouses of Singapore citizens who didn’t submit a Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment, the process can take up to six months.
Supporting Documents
You need to prepare several supporting documents for your LTVP application. These may include:
Your passport
Recent passport-sized photograph
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate (for spouses)
Proof of relationship to the sponsor
Educational certificates
Employment details of the sponsor
Make sure all documents are clear, legible, and in English. If not, you must get them officially translated. Some documents may need to be certified true copies. Check the official guidelines to know which ones require certification.
Payment and Fees
LTVP application fees vary based on your situation. You must pay when you submit your application. The fee is non-refundable, even if your application is not approved. S$30 for a Multiple Journey Visa (if applicable).
Payment methods include credit/debit cards and internet banking. Make sure you have a valid payment method ready before starting your application.
If your LTVP is approved, you'll need to pay additional fees to complete the formalities and get your pass issued. This includes fees for the pass itself and any required medical check-ups, such as scheduling the medical results collection date.
Keep all payment receipts for your records. You might need them later for reference or if there are any issues with your application.
Assessment and Approval
The Long Term Visit Pass application process involves careful review and decision-making by immigration authorities. You'll need to understand the timeline and communication methods used during this crucial phase.
Processing Time
LTVP applications typically take up to 6 months to process. This timeframe applies to foreign spouses of Singapore citizens who didn't submit a Pre-Marriage Long-Term Visit Pass Assessment (PMLA).
If you completed a PMLA before marriage, your application might be processed faster. The exact duration can vary based on individual circumstances and document completeness.
During this period, immigration officers thoroughly review your submitted information and supporting documents. They may conduct background checks, including verifying the authorised recipients of key documents, and eligibility of the main pass holder's work status.
Notification and Follow-up
You’ll receive the outcome of your LTVP application via email. It’s crucial to check your inbox regularly, including spam folders, to avoid missing important communications.
Both applicants and sponsors can track the application status using the Foreign Identification Number (FIN) to monitor the progress of the LTVP application, as processing times can differ significantly.
If approved, the email will contain instructions on the next steps. These may include:
Scheduling an appointment for pass collection
Paying any required fees
Completing additional formalities
In case of rejection, you’ll be informed of the reasons. You might have the option to appeal or reapply after addressing any issues.
If you haven’t heard back after the expected processing time, you can contact ICA for a status update. Be prepared to provide your application reference number and personal details.
Pass Issuance
After your Long Term Visit Pass application is approved, you'll need to complete two important steps. These involve collecting your pass and registering your biometric information.
Collection of Long Term Visit Pass
When your application is approved, you will receive an in principle approval notice, outlining the terms and conditions for your pass. You may also need to get a medical checkup. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will give you instructions on how to collect your pass.
Starting February 27, 2023, ICA only issues digital Long-Term Passes. You won't get a physical card anymore. This change applies to Long-Term Visit Passes, Student's Passes, and Dependant's Passes.
To get your digital pass, you'll use the ICA's online system. Make sure you have all the required documents ready when you apply, such as the foreigner's IPA letter, pass holder's copy, and candidate's original passport.
Biometric Registration
After getting your pass, you need to register your biometric information. This usually means giving your fingerprints and photo.
You'll do this at an ICA office. They'll tell you when and where to go. It's a quick process, but it's very important.
Remember to bring your passport and any other documents ICA asks for. If you don't register your biometrics, your pass might not be valid.
This step helps ICA keep accurate records and improves security. It's a one-time process, so you won't need to do it again unless ICA asks you to.
Conditions and Regulations
The Long Term Visit Pass comes with specific rules and requirements. You need to follow these to keep your pass valid and stay within the law during your time in Singapore.
Validity and Renewal
Your Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is usually valid for up to two years. You can renew it before it expires.
To renew, you must apply online through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website. Start this process at least four weeks before your pass expires.
The renewal is not automatic. ICA will review your application and may ask for more documents. They look at factors like your family ties, employment status, and good behavior in Singapore.
If approved, you'll get a new pass with a fresh validity period. The length can vary based on your situation.
Employment and Business Activities
As an LTVP holder, you have limited work options. You can't work without getting extra permission first.
To work, you need to apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower. This is only for specific jobs and situations.
Starting a business is possible, but you need approval. You must register your company and get the right permits.
Remember, breaking these rules can lead to your pass being canceled. It's crucial to follow the correct procedures for any work or business activities.
Change of Personal Details
You must tell ICA about any changes to your personal information. This includes your address, passport details, or marital status.
Report these changes within 14 days. You can do this online through the ICA website.
For address changes, you need to update your SingPass address too. This affects many government services.
If you get a new passport, bring both your old and new passports to ICA. They'll update your records and put a new LTVP label in your new passport.
Keeping your details up-to-date is your responsibility. It helps avoid problems with your stay in Singapore.
Renewal Process
You need to renew your Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) before it expires. The renewal process can start up to 6 months before expiration for passes issued by the Ministry of Manpower.
For LTVP holders with passes from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), you can renew your pass through ICA. It's best to apply for renewal when your current LTVP has less than 3 months of validity left.
To renew your LTVP:
Gather required documents
Log in to the appropriate e-Service portal
Complete the renewal application form
Pay any applicable fees
Wait for approval
Your sponsor will need to use their Singpass to submit the renewal application online. The process typically takes about 20 minutes to complete.
Remember, any remaining validity on your current LTVP won't carry over to the renewed pass. Plan accordingly to maintain your legal status in Singapore.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Long-Term Visit Pass can be a smooth process if you're well-prepared. You should gather all required documents before starting your application. This includes a recent passport-sized photo and other personal papers, such as the pass card and documents verified by ICA.
Understanding the application timeline is crucial. Some applications may take up to 6 months, especially for foreign spouses who didn't submit a pre-marriage assessment.
Be ready for potential medical check-ups. You'll need to download the medical report form if this applies to you.
Keep an eye on your email. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will inform you about your application outcome via this method, including any notice of attempted delivery or specific delivery details for your visa or permit.
By staying organized and informed, you'll navigate the LTVP application process more easily. This preparation can help reduce stress and increase your chances of a successful application.
Remember, each situation is unique. If you have specific questions, it's best to contact the ICA directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
FAQs
Long-Term Visit Passes in Singapore come with specific rules and requirements. Here are answers to some common questions about eligibility, employment, and differences from other passes.
Can holders of Long-Term Visit Passes in Singapore engage in employment?
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) holders can't work without approval. You need to apply for a work pass if you want to work in Singapore. Your employer must submit the application for you.
The type of work pass depends on your job and salary. Options include Employment Pass, S Pass, or Work Permit.
What is the difference between a Long-Term Visit Pass and a Dependent Pass in Singapore?
A Long-Term Visit Pass is for family members of Singapore citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident. A Dependent Pass is for spouses and children of Employment Pass or S Pass holders.
LTVP holders need approval to work. Dependent Pass holders can work with a Letter of Consent from the Ministry of Manpower.
Is there a minimum salary requirement for sponsoring a Long-Term Visit Pass?
There's no set minimum salary to sponsor an LTVP. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority looks at many factors when reviewing applications.
These factors include the sponsor's income, ability to support the applicant, and the couple's relationship. The LTVP+ scheme offers longer-term passes for some couples.
