Singapore is a modern Southeast Asian city with something for everyone. It is located on the Malay Peninsula and offers beautiful islands, beaches, lush landscapes, and plenty of wildlife. The city is full of exciting attractions, lively streets, and friendly people, so it’s no surprise that it is a top destination in the region. Planning a trip from the dazzling emirate of Dubai to the vibrant metropolis of Singapore? You might need a visa to enter Singapore, depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. This article provides everything you need to secure a Singapore visa from Dubai to ensure a smoother journey to this beautiful country.
Do You Need a Singapore Visa from Dubai?
Okay, first, let’s look at who needs a visa to travel to Singapore and who doesn’t.
Residents of the UAE can visit Singapore without a visa for up to 30 days. However, if you’re an expat from a country that requires a visa, you must apply for a Singapore visa from Dubai. Note that even if you hold a temporary passport issued by the UAE, you must apply for a Singapore visa.
Here are the countries whose nationals need a valid visa to enter Singapore:
| Afghanistan | Democratic People’s Republic of Korea | Kazakhstan | Moldova | Somalia |
| Algeria | Egypt | Kosovo | Morocco | South Sudan |
| Armenia | Georgia | Kyrgyzstan | Nigeria | Sudan |
| Azerbaijan | India | Lebanon | Pakistan | Syria |
| Bangladesh | Iran | Libya | Tajikistan | Iraq |
| Mali | Russia | Tunisia | Turkmenistan | Ukraine |
| Uzbekistan | Yemen | Belarus |
Additionally, you will require a visa if you hold:
- A refugee travel document or an alien’s passport is subject to recognition by Singapore.
- A passport from the Palestinian Authority.
- A temporary passport issued by the United Arab Emirates.
- A travel permit from the Macao Special Administrative Region.
- An identity document issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
What are the General Requirements for a Singapore Visa From Dubai?
Suppose you hold a valid passport issued by the United Arab Emirates. In that case, you must apply for a Singapore visa and submit the following documents:
- An original and valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- A fully completed and signed Singapore visa application form 14A.
- Two passport-sized photographs that meet the Singapore visa photo requirements.
- A confirmed return flight ticket.
- Proof of financial stability, showing you have enough funds to cover your trip.
- Any additional documents are required based on your visa type and nationality.
- A Letter of Introduction form V39A from a local contact or sponsor in Singapore.
The Types of Singapore Visa From Dubai:
If a visa is necessary, various options cater to different travel purposes:
- Singapore Tourist Visa (Short-Term Visit Pass): This visa is for sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or attending conferences. It usually allows a stay of 30 days, and it is possible to extend under specific circumstances.
- Singapore Business Visa: A Singapore business visa permits travel to Singapore primarily for business meetings, conferences, seminars, or exhibitions. A single-entry visa allows a stay of up to 30 days in the country.
Two Routes to Apply for a Singapore Visa from Dubai:
- Singapore Embassy/Consulate in Dubai: While Singapore doesn’t have a physical embassy in Dubai, consular services are provided by the Singapore Consulate-General in Dubai. However, this option might involve scheduling an appointment and visiting the consulate.
- Visa Application Center (VAC): Partnering with VFS Global, Singapore offers an easy alternative: applying through their authorised VAC in Dubai. VFS streamlines the process, accepting applications and documents on behalf of the Singaporean authorities.
Choosing the Right Channel: Both channels effectively handle visa applications. Consider your comfort level with online applications and any urgency in obtaining the visa. VFS offers online applications and status tracking, while the consulate might require in-person visits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Singapore Visa from Dubai (VAC Method):
Step 1:
Gather Required Documents
- Completed Application Form 14A: Download the form from the VFS website and fill it out accurately and completely.
- Original Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended arrival date. Singapore and includes at least two blank pages for visa stamping.
- Two Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent photographs meet VFS Global’s specifications.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or a letter of invitation from a host in Singapore.
- Proof of Onward Travel: Flight tickets or travel itinerary demonstrating your departure from Singapore.
- Financial Statements: Bank statements for the past 3-6 months showcasing good funds to support your stay in Singapore (Requirements might vary depending on your nationality and visa type).
- Additional Documents (if applicable): Depending on your visa type, you might need a letter of employment, business invitation letter, or proof of medical insurance.
Step 2:
Schedule an Appointment (Optional)
While not mandatory, booking an appointment at VFS Dubai can ensure a smoother application submission process.
Here’s how to book an appointment through the VFS website:
- Head to the official website of VFS Global Singapore.
- Navigate to “Book an appointment” and click on “Book Now”.
- This will take you to a page where you will be told that you don’t need to book an appointment; you can simply attend the visa application centre to begin your application process.
- You can simply visit the centre to begin your application.
Below is the application centre address: (VFS Global)
WAFI Mall, Level 2 & Level 3, Falcon Phase 2,
Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE.
Opening Hours:
| Category | Days | Time |
| Business Hours | Monday to Friday | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Application Submission Hours | Monday to Friday | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Ramadan Submission Hours | Monday to Friday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Contact Details:
Contact by email: info.singae@vfshelpline.com
Contact by phone: +971 4 2055880 (from 09:00 to 17:00 Monday to Friday)
Step 3:
Submit Application and Fees
Once you have completed your visa form, you can submit it and pay the visa fee at the visa application centre without needing to book an appointment. (The opening hours are mentioned above; visit the application centre accordingly)
Step 4:
Track Your Application
VFS offers online application status tracking, allowing you to monitor the progress of your visa application.
Here’s how to track your application online:
- Head to the official website of VFS Global Singapore.
- Navigate to “Track your application.” And click on it.
- Fill in your reference number (application number) and DOB, and clear the Captcha.
- Click on “Submit”. You can now see your application status online.
Step 5:
Collect Your Visa (if approved)
Upon successful processing, you can collect your visa from VFS Dubai or opt for courier delivery (additional charges might apply). You are most likely to receive an email for the confirmation.
Applying for a Singapore Visa From The Singapore Consulate in Dubai
Note: The process is the same as VFS Global
- Visit the Singapore consulate in Dubai.
- Submit your application
- Pay the visa fee
- Wait for your approval confirmation.
Given Below is the address of the Singapore Consulate in Dubai:
Villa No 124, Street 30d,
Community No. 334, Al Satwa,
P O Box: 214661, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Opening Hours:
| Day | Mon-Thurs |
| Mon-Thurs | 8.00 am to 4.30 pm |
| Friday | 8.00 am to 1.00 pm |
| Sat, Sun & Public Holidays | Closed |
Appointments & Notarisations:
| Day | Time |
| Mon-Thurs | 8.30 am to 12.30 pm |
Contact Details:
Contact by email: info.singae@vfshelpline.com.
Contact by phone: +971 4 2055880 (from 09:00 to 17:00 Monday to Friday).
What is the Visa Processing Time?
The processing time for a Singapore visa from Dubai application typically ranges from 7 to 15 working days, excluding the day of submission and Singapore/Dubai public holidays. It’s advisable to factor in this timeframe while planning your trip.
What is The Visa Fee?
The visa fee is AED 80 plus a service fee of AED 65.
Additional Tips To Keep in Mind:
- Double-check all documents: Ensure all required documents are complete, accurate, and meet the specified format.
- Validity Periods: Verify that your passport and travel documents have the necessary validity periods per Singapore’s visa requirements.
- Clear and Concise Communication: If submitting additional documents or explanations, ensure clarity and conciseness to avoid delays.
Why is Travel Insurance a Must?
Travel insurance is important for covering unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. It provides peace of mind and financial protection, ensuring a smooth and worry-free journey. Travel insurance means you can enjoy your trip to Singapore without worries.
Final Takeaway:
Getting a Singapore visa from Dubai is simpler than it might seem. Whether you apply through the VFS Global Visa Application Center or directly at the Singapore Consulate in Dubai, just follow the steps outlined in this guide. Make sure you have all your documents ready and check for any specific requirements based on your nationality. With this straightforward process, you’ll be all set for your exciting trip to Singapore. Safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q. Can I extend my Singapore Tourist Visa?
In some cases, extensions might be granted under specific circumstances.
Q. What happens if my visa application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, the Singaporean authorities will notify you. After addressing the reason for rejection, you might have the option to reapply.
Q.Can I apply for a Singapore visa on arrival?
Singapore only offers visa-on-arrival for some nationalities. It’s best to apply beforehand through the designated channels.
