Singapore, a global hub for business, tourism, and culture, attracts thousands of travellers each year. For residents of the United Arab Emirates, understanding the Singapore visa for UAE residents requirements is crucial before planning a trip.
This guide provides comprehensive information on obtaining a Singapore visa for UAE residents, including types, required documents, fees, and application procedures.
- Who needs a Singapore visa from the UAE
- Types of Singapore visa for UAE residents
- Documents required for visa application
- How to Apply for a Singapore Visa from Dubai
- Visa fees and processing time
- Special cases and additional requirements
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Who needs a Singapore visa from the UAE
For UAE travellers, visa requirements vary depending on citizenship status. UAE citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance. They are eligible for a visa on arrival, valid for up to 30 days, which can be extended up to 90 days depending on travel plans.
However, UAE residents who are foreign nationals must obtain a Singapore visa before travel, irrespective of their nationality, unless their passport falls under Singapore’s visa exemption list. Therefore, residents need to plan ahead, as visa processing requires submission through authorised agents rather than direct embassy applications.
Types of Singapore Visa for UAE residents
Singapore offers several visa categories tailored to different travel purposes.
Tourist Visa
Designed for leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. Typically, this visa is valid for 30 days per entry.
Business Visa
A business visa allows short business trips, including meetings, conferences, and corporate events. However, it does not permit employment in Singapore.
Transit Visa
Certain nationalities require a transit visa even when passing through Singapore en route to another destination. For example, eligibility can be confirmed on the official ICA website.
Family Visit Visa
Intended for visiting relatives or friends residing in Singapore. Consequently, this visa allows extended stays for family reunions and private visits.
Documents required for visa application
Applicants must provide accurate and complete documentation to ensure a successful application. Specifically, the required documents include:
- Valid passport: Must have at least six months’ validity and one blank page.
- Visa Application Form 14A: Completed and signed.
- Passport-sized photograph: Recent, with a white background.
- UAE residence visa: Must be valid for the entire duration of the trip.
- Confirmed flight booking: Round-trip tickets are required.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel booking or invitation letter from the host in Singapore.
- Bank statement: Evidence of sufficient funds for the trip.
- Employment documents: an original, stamped, signed, and dated salary certificate from the past month, along with a trade licence for self-employed individuals or business owners, and a NOC letter from the employer when required.
- Dependents: Sponsor’s salary certificate or company letter.
- Minors: Birth certificate, parental consent letter, and copies of parents’ passports and UAE visas.
Moreover, ensuring all documents are authentic and valid helps prevent delays or rejection.
How to Apply for a Singapore Visa from Dubai
Follow these steps to apply for a Singapore visa in Dubai:
- Gather documents: Ensure all supporting documents are complete.
- Complete Form 14A: This can be done online or via an authorised agent.
- Submit application: Applications must go through authorised visa agents. Direct submission to the embassy is not accepted.
- Pay visa fees: Fee depends on the type of service chosen.
- Wait for processing: Standard processing typically takes 3–7 working days.
- Receive visa approval: Approval may come as an e-Visa or a stamped passport.
Additionally, applicants should submit their application early to avoid delays, especially during peak travel periods.
Visa fees and processing time
Visa fees for UAE residents vary according to processing speed:
| Service | Fee (AED) | Processing Time |
| Standard Visa | 250 – 300 | 3 – 5 working days |
| Express Visa | Varies (higher) | 1 – 2 working days |
Visa validity
Singapore authorities typically issue single-entry visas, valid for 30 days from the date of entry. However, multiple-entry visas may be granted based on travel history, purpose of travel, or frequent visits.
Special cases and additional requirements
Certain applicants must provide extra documents:
- Minors: Birth certificate, parental consent letter, and copies of parents’ passports and UAE visas.
- Dependents: Sponsor’s salary certificate or company letter.
- Self-employed or business owners: Trade license and company letter on official letterhead.
Furthermore, applicants must ensure all documents are authentic, valid, and up-to-date to prevent delays or rejection. Submitting extra required documents in advance can also speed up processing.
Key takeaways
To travel to Singapore, foreign residents in the UAE must apply in advance for a Singapore visa for UAE residents Required documents include a valid passport, completed Form 14A, passport-size photos, UAE residence visa, confirmed flight and hotel bookings, bank statements, and employment proof.
Moreover, ensuring all documents are authentic and complete helps avoid unnecessary complications. Additionally, applications must go through authorised visa agents, since direct embassy submissions are not accepted. Typically, processing takes three to seven working days, with standard fees ranging from AED 250 to 300.
Most visas are single-entry, valid for 30 days, although multiple-entry visas may be granted for frequent travellers depending on travel history and purpose. Overall, preparing complete and authentic documentation ensures a faster, hassle-free application process.
FAQS
UAE citizens get visa-free entry (visa on arrival for 30 days); however, most foreign nationals residing in the UAE are required to obtain a Singapore visa before travelling.
Yes, applications can be submitted through authorised visa agents or via the official Singapore ICA website.
Processing generally takes 3 – 7 working days. It is recommended to apply at least two weeks before your intended travel date.
Most visas are single-entry and valid for 30 days. Multiple-entry visas may be possible depending on travel history and purpose.
Always refer to the official ICA website for updated requirements.
