japan travel visa singapore

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Travelling to Singapore Travellers should refer to the  ICA website  for the latest information on travelling to/from or transiting through Singapore. For the latest updates on Singapore's COVID-19 situation, please refer to the MOH website at  https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19 .   

Entry and Exit

Singapore passport holders are not required to apply for visas for short-term entry into Japan (less than 90 days).

Travellers intending to travel to Japan should refer to the Embassy of Japan in Singapore’s website and Japan National Tourist Organisation’s website for the latest entry requirements.

Travellers may also refer to the Embassy of Singapore in Tokyo’s website and Facebook page for the latest travel updates. 

Safety and Security

While the crime rate for petty crimes in Japan is generally low, travellers should remain vigilant and ensure that valuables such as passports and cash are not left unattended.  There have been occasional reports of foreigners being targeted for credit card fraud and extortion in Tokyo’s entertainment and nightlife districts. Travellers are advised to avoid touts. Travellers should note that the Japan Police may not provide a copy of the police report of the incident. Instead, a report number (with no content) will be issued to acknowledge that a report has been lodged at the police station. Hence, it may be useful to take note of the Police Station where the report is filed.

The legal age for consuming and purchasing alcohol and tobacco in Japan is 20 years old.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required for Singaporeans to drive in Japan. As it is illegal to drive without the original IDP, car rental companies will not be able to rent cars to foreigners who are unable to produce the original IDP. For application procedures, please refer to the website of the Automobile Association of Singapore ( https://www.aas.com.sg/our-services/international-driving-permit-idp.html ).

Possession of prohibited drugs is a crime and can lead to heavy penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Travellers should note that prohibited drugs can include prescribed drugs for personal consumption. Travellers importing prescribed drugs should check with the Japan Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare ( http://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/topics/import/index.html ) or the Japanese Embassy on the application for an import certificate, before bringing the drugs into Japan.

Additional Information

The Japan National Tourism Organisation ( www.jnto.go.jp/safety-tips/eng ) provides safety tips and useful emergency information for travellers to Japan. The NHK World (mobile) app provides push notifications on disaster and emergency information in English. This includes alerts on earthquake, tsunami, volcano warnings issued by JMA, as well as information from J-Alert. The NHK World app is available for free on Google Play and App Store.

General Travel Advice

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website ( www.mfa.gov.sg ) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas  Mission  or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

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Visa Information

Select the visa type that is right for you to see important information on visa fees, documents required, forms, photo specifications and processing times.

Documents Required

Photo specifications, processing time, download forms.

Please note: Japanese nationals do not need to apply for a visa to travel to Singapore.

Other foreign nationalities can click here to check if they require a visa to travel to Singapore.

For visa applications submitted through the Visa Application Centre there will be charges of:

From 01 January 2024

3,400JPY (Visa Application fee) (equivalent to S$30/-)

7,340 JPY (Service Charge)

Total : 10,740JPY / application

If you opt for the courier pass back service there will be an additional charge of 2,000 JPY per applicant. For Additional Services Charges Information please click here

Our service for Singapore visa application would not guarantee issuance of a visa, and we will not bear full responsibility for the outcome. Please note that visa application fee and other service fees are non-refundable. Grant of visa or visa processing time is decided by ICA, Immigration & Checkpoints Authority Singapore. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Please prepare documents of:

• Completed, signed and dated Form 14A . (Signature must be the same as shown on your passport.)
• Photo size should be 3.5cm×4.5cm
• The facial image should be between 3cm and 3.5cm
• Image must be taken within the last 3 months
• Photograph should be in color, must be taken against a white background with a matt or semi-matt finish
• Image must show the full face and without headgear (headgear worn in accordance with religious or racial customs is acceptable but must not hide the facial features)
• Please write your name-same as passport- back of your photo and stick it on ApplicationForm14A before you hand it
• Original passport (Please ensure that the passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.)
• Passport cover page (both front & back side)/bio data pages/signature page/valid visa for Japan page/valid re-entry permit page/ (Indian passport holder requires last page as well)
• Photocopy of Bio-date page of previous passport
• Photocopy of Previous Visa (Please confirm that the previous visa expired.)
• Other free format explanation paper in English (with your signature)

LOI Form V39A

Letter of Introduction (LOI) Form V39A may be issued by a local contact in Singapore. Any Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident who is at least 21 years old can act as a local contact.

Some Nationality applicants are not mandatory. If it is difficult to prepare FormV39A, you might need to ask your company or school to write Certificate or Letter of Introduction instead of V39A. Kindly note, these Certificate and Letter are issued in English.

• Original Residence card and both-side copy(A4 size, Black and White)

Copy of E-tickets or Official Flight Itinerary provided by Travel Agency or Flight Company with its stamp/logo.

*When you enter Singapore by other than air, Official Flight Itinerary provided by Travel Agency with its stamp/logo should be submitted.

Proxy letter and both Original and Photocopy of proxy's passport or Identity Card with photo if you send a proxy to apply

Proxy Letter (Tokyo)

Other Requirements The applicant and the local contact may be required to furnish additional documents and information whenever necessary. Official translations of the documents are required if they are not in the English language.

One recent passport-sized color photograph which meets the following requirements:

It depends on applicant’s nationality. Please refer to see Singapore immigration & Checkpoint Authority (ICA) Website

You can log into the website and print out your E-visa.

Important: It may take longer to be approved due to circumstances. The Embassy of the Republic of Singapore Tokyo recommends you to apply within 4 weeks of your departure. Thank you for your understanding.

• Other free format explanation paper in English(with your signature)

Some nationality applicants are not mandatory. If it is difficult to prepare FormV39A, you might need to ask your company or school to write Certificate or Letter of Introduction instead of V39A. Kindly note, these Certificate and Letter are issued in English.

Proxy letter and both Original and Photocopy of proxy's passport or Identity Card with photo if you send a proxy to apply

• Please write your name-same as passport- back of your photo and stick it on ApplicationForm14A before you hand it.

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• Requirements

Japan Visas for Citizens of Singapore

Japan is a popular travel destination and has been for a number of years. Millions of visitors flock to the country every year from all over the world. In 2018, for instance, Japan was the host nation for over 30 million international travelers . Its vibrant culture, people, customs and cuisine make it an attractive destination for people to visit.

Aside from being a great travel destination, Japan also is a great country for businessmen as it boasts a mature economy with a global consumer base. It attracts international business professionals due to its economy’s growth potential as well as the opportunity to introduce their ventures to other major markets around the world.

This is why it should not come as a surprise that more than 437,000 Singaporean citizens visited Japan in 2018 , representing 1.4% of the total overseas travelers welcomed by the country.

There are myriads of reasons for why people choose to travel to Japan. The Japanese authorities have decided to adjust their visa application and authorization system to suit an international travel standard in order to make the process easier for the average traveler. The new Japanese eVisa promises to achieve just that .

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Japan from Singapore?

Singaporean citizens will be eligible to apply for the Japanese eVisa once it is made available. In the meantime, travelers from Singapore can apply for other visas that are offered by the Japanese government through a Japanese embassy or consulate.

The type of visa a Singaporean traveler may need depends on their travel plans and the length of their stay in the country. How long can a Singaporean citizen stay in Japan will also depend on the type of visa obtained by the applicant. There are several short-term visas that travelers can apply for, such as:

• Japanese tourist visa : This visa is appropriate for travelers that are interested in taking up touristic activities while in Japan. It allows travelers a stay of up to 90 days in the country and can be obtained either as a single-entry or as a double-entry visa.
• Japanese business visa : For individuals interested in short-term business engagements, the Japanese business visa should work well. It is also available either as a single- or double-entry visa.
• Japanese transit visa : This visa is required by people who will be stopping over in Japan on their way to another country.

Singaporean travelers that need to stay in Japan longer than a few months may be eligible to apply for a Japanese long-term visa . There are several different types of long-term visas that travelers from Singapore can apply for. Travelers from Singapore can scan the list of available long-term visas and the associated requirements to select one that best suits their travel needs.

Japanese eVisa for Singaporean Citizens

Once the Japanese eVisa is rolled out, Singaporean citizens will be able to apply for the eVisa online without having to go through an embassy or consulate. It has been specifically designed to simplify the application of a Japanese visa for short-term stays in the island nation.

Once the Japanese eVisa becomes available, Singaporean nationals will have to apply for the Japanese eVisa by filling out an online application with their personal, passport and travel details.

They will also be required to answer some security questions concerning any past criminal offences or other legal violations. Travelers are required to answer these questions as honestly as possible, making sure the information they provide is accurate and matches the information shown on the applicant’s other travel documents.

Japanese Visa Requirements for Singaporean Citizens

In order to obtain a Japanese visa, there are certain requirements that applicants must fulfill in order to ensure a successful application. These requirements include:

• Having a valid passport with at least 2 blank pages and a validity that covers the traveler’s duration of stay in Japan (advisable: 6 months validity)
• A signed and completed visa application form
• A recent photo of the traveler taken against a white background
• A secondary identification document such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, etc.
• If the traveler is married, a marriage certificate will be required as well
• Travel itinerary including intended date of travel, place of accommodation during the trip, etc.

If the traveler has been sponsored for their trip to Japan by a Japanese sponsor or guarantor, some additional documentation must be submitted along with the application:

• A letter from the sponsor/guarantor explaining the relationship between the traveler and the sponsor/guarantor
• Proof of the relationship between the sponsor/guarantor and the traveler
• Sponsor/guarantor’s proof of sufficient funds for the traveler’s trip to the country

If applicants do not have a sponsor/guarantor, then they need to submit their own proof of sufficient funds in the form of a recent bank certificate and a copy of their income tax return.

What Can Singaporean Citizens Expect from the New Japanese eVisa?

The Japanese eVisa is currently being developed by the Japanese government as a single-entry eVisa to automatically evaluate a traveler’s details in order to determine their eligibility to travel to the country. Once all details regarding the eVisa have been finalized, more updates will be made available on this website.

How to Apply for a Japan Visitor Visa in Singapore

Thinking of your springtime or summer holiday escapade? If beaches and tropical islands are not your thing, consider visiting somewhere with four seasons. But you don’t need to look too far, because according to a popular Singapore travel search engine’s (KAYAK) analytics report, a lot of people residing in Singapore are highly considering Tokyo, Seoul, and Bangkok, as their top three destinations to visit this year.

Tokyo, Japan snagged the top spot from Bangkok last year as the most-searched destination in Singapore for 2018. That being the case, let us take a look at how Filipinos residing in Singapore can jumpstart their application for a Japan Visitor Visa to make their 2018 travel goals a reality. Here’s how:

Applying for a Japan Visitor Visa in Singapore

If you’re a Filipino or an expat staying in Singapore who does not come from any of the 68 countries with visa exemptions and are planning a short visit to Japan (15 days maximum), then take note of the following procedures and requirements for your Japan visitor visa application here in Singapore:

Requirements:

Remember to prepare the following documents prior your visit to the Embassy:

• A completely filled-out visa application form you can print and download here
• Your valid and original passport with at least two back-to-back blank pages.
• One recent and original 2 x 2 colour photograph taken within the last 6 months to be attached on your printed visa application form
• A copy of your certificate of employment
• Note: It is recommended that you have at least SGD 3,000 in your bank account for safe measure.
• Your air ticket and flight itinerary
• A copy of your valid Singapore ID, front and back (E-Pass, S-Pass, etc)

Procedures:

• Prepare all the necessary documents specified above and visit the Japan Embassy in Singapore located at:

Embassy of Japan in Singapore

16 Nassim Road, Singapore 258390

Tel (+65) 6235-8855

Fax (+65) 6733-1039

Tip:  Go to the Japan Embassy in the morning as visa applications are only accepted from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm.

• Proceed to the Visa counter and present all your documents. Once the receiving officer accepts your papers, he/she will do a quick processing of your application before he/she hands you a schedule slip for the release of your visa.
• Wait for the release of your visa. This usually takes about 3-4 days.
• Pick up your passport along with your Visitor Visa at the Japan Embassy on the scheduled date.

Note:  Take note of the schedule at the Embassy. Visa collection takes place in the afternoon (from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm), so be sure to come a little earlier than scheduled.

Applying for a Japan Visitor Visa in Singapore is free. You only need to submit all the necessary documents and follow the instructions given by the Japanese Embassy for a smooth-sailing application process. Once your visa is released, you can finally think about the places where you can enjoy the cherry blossoms and the amazing food in Japan.

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Tourist visa

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Tourist visa to Japan

A tourist visa to Japan is granted to passengers travelling to Japan for a short-term stay for the purpose of tourism (sightseeing, visiting friends and relatives, leisure) or medical check-up and medical treatment.

A tourist visa can be issued as a single-entry (3 months validity) or a multiple-entry visa.

Please note, we work on a pre-booked appointment basis only to ensure efficient and professional assistance to each of our clients. Please, scroll down to book an appointment.

• Required documents
• Processing time

Required documents for a tourist visa to Japan

Main documents:.

• Visa application form . The completed Japanese visa application form must be printed and signed by hand (blue ink). Refer to the Japanese visa application guide on how to complete the form in accordance with the requirements of the Embassy of Japan.
• Photograph . 1 recent passport-size colour photograph on a white background – can be arranged in our office . You cannot wear a white top; the top must have sleeves.
• Passport . The original passport must have at least 6 months of validity remaining after the intended visa expires and at least 2 blank pages for visa stamps.
• Copy of a Residence permit for EP, PR, DP and S-Pass holders or Re-entry Permi t for PR holders. For a new employment pass with a QR code instead of an expiry date, you must provide a printout of the validity and expiry status which can be obtained with a free SGWorkPass app (available on App Store and Google Play ). The printout must show the access date at the top and the bottom.
• Supporting letter . A supporting letter from the applicant’s employer or school/university (for students) in Singapore issued within the last 1 month. Refer to the example of a school/company letter . Or a Business Registration Profile from ACRA issued within the last 3 months.
• For the multiple-entry visa, a Multiple entry request form .
• For the multiple-entry visa, a IRAS tax return statement .
• Bank statements showing the transactions for the last 2 months. The bank statements must have all pages included. The minimum amount required for a visa application is 3,000 SGD. OR a certificate of income or tax payment issued by a public agency.
• A daily itinerary in Japan. Please, refer to the Japanese itinerary example on how to complete the form in accordance with requirements of the Embassy of Japan.
• Russian passport holders and individuals holding passports from CIS countries are required to submit two completed application forms along with two photographs.
• Authorisation letter .
• Global Singapore visa order form . Completed and signed Global Singapore visa order form .
• Document checklist .

Supporting documents:

If an applicant is a retiree, unemployed, homemaker, student or minor, the following documents have to be submitted:

• Letter of sponsorship .
• Proof of relationship (copy of a marriage/birth certificate).
• A sponsor should submit a copy of their last month’s bank statement, copy of their passport and a residence card.
• Should you require to print any of the required documents in our office, please note that an additional charge will be applied.

Fees for a tourist visa to Japan

Visa fee exemption nationalities ✔ Armenia ✔ Australia ✔ Austria ✔ Azerbaijan ✔ Bahamas ✔ Bangladesh ✔ Barbados ✔ Belarus ✔ Belgium ✔ British National Overseas ✔ Bulgaria ✔ Canada ✔ Colombia ✔ Costa Rica ✔ Croatia ✔ Cyprus ✔ Czech Republic ✔ Denmark ✔ El Salvador ✔ Estonia ✔ Germany ✔ Georgia ✔ Honduras ✔ Hong Kong S.A.R ✔ Hungary ✔ Iceland ✔ Ireland ✔ Italy ✔ Jordan ✔ Kazakhstan ✔ Korea ✔ Kyrgyzstan ✔ Latvia ✔ Lesotho ✔ Lithuania ✔ Luxembourg ✔ Macau S.A.R ✔ Macedonia ✔ Malaysia ✔ Malta ✔ Mauritius ✔ Mexico ✔ Moldova ✔ Monaco ✔ New Zealand ✔ Pakistan ✔ Philippines (only for Temporary Visitor and Entertainer visa) ✔ Poland ✔ Portugal ✔ Romania (only for Temporary Visitor visa) ✔ Russia ✔ San Marino ✔ Slovakia ✔ Slovenia ✔ Spain ✔ Suriname ✔ Sweden ✔ Tajikistan ✔ Turkmenistan ✔ Ukraine ✔ USA ✔ Uzbekistan

Nationality: Select your nationality Visa exemption nationality (see above) Indian Others

Multiplicity: single double/multiple

Consulate fee:

Service fee:

All fees and charges are subject to prevailing GST.

• There is a visa fee waiver for passengers travelling to Okinawa!

Processing time for a tourist visa to Japan

• Typically, visa processing takes approximately 5-6 working days after the submission of documents to the Consulate. However, in some cases where referral to a government office is necessary, the processing time may extend up to 1 or 2 months. Hence, we recommend planning your trip well in in advance .
• Urgent or express service is not available with the Consulate of Japan.

Delivery of your passport:

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Japan fully reopens to tourists from Singapore on 11 October

Great news for Japan lovers, with the news we’ve been eagerly anticipating – the popular destination is relaxing its border restrictions to allow tourists to enter visa-free and restriction-free from 11th October 2022, allowing proper two-way quarantine-free trips for the first time in over two-and-a-half years.

Singapore citizens and those holding passports issued in 67 other countries are set to benefit, which will see the vast majority of Lion City residents eligible to make a long-awaited trip to “the land of the rising sun” once again.

This relaxation, announced by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at a news conference in New York, will allow travellers to visit Japan without the need to make travel agency bookings in advance, nor apply for a visa in most cases.

To be eligible, you must be fully vaccinated and boosted with one of Japan’s recognised vaccines, or simply have a negative pre-departure PCR test if you are unvaccinated or your jabs don’t comply (e.g. Sinovac / Sinopharm).

The loosening of restrictions comes ahead of both the autumn travel season and the winter ski season, also paving the way for the first truly “free and easy” opportunity for four years to visit Japan during the upcoming sakura (cherry blossom) period, which runs from March to May 2023.

The weak Japanese yen will also stretch your cash on a Japan trip in the short-term, with your Singapore dollar going 25% further than it did in pre-COVID times, though actually getting to and from the country looks set to be an expensive affair, with flight capacity remaining limited in the months ahead.

Japan’s reopening will come just a few days before Taiwan also intends to allow free and easy travel once again, with Hong Kong also set to remove quarantine sometime in October.

Japan’s tourism reopening

Under the latest move, from 11th October 2022 Japan will:

• scrap its requirement for most travellers to obtain an entry visa
• ditch the idea that you must enter under a North-Korea-style guided tour format, or with a pre-arranged travel agent booking, and
• do away with its 50,000 person daily limit on overseas entries.

In most cases, that means you will be able to visit just like you could during pre-pandemic times, organising your own flights and hotel accommodation independently.

Japan already removed pre-departure testing for fully vaccinated travellers in early September 2022.

Who’s eligible: Nationalities

As with before COVID-19, Japan will once again allow those with one of 68 nationalities to enter visa-free for visits of up to 90 days, including Singapore Citizens.

The full list of eligible nationalities for visa-free entry into Japan from 11th October 2022 is outlined below (click to expand).

* Stays of up to six months, under bilateral agreement.

Who’s eligible: Vaccination or testing

To be eligible you’ll typically need to be fully vaccinated and have received a booster dose, in both cases from a relatively selective list of vaccines, with Sinopharm and Sinovac unfortunately not on the list.

That means having had either two or three vaccine doses, depending on which brand you received.

Japan “fully vaccinated” requirement

Vaccine doses from different brands on the above list received in combination are also acceptable, provided you have completed the primary course (any combination) and had a booster dose (of the same or a different vaccine).

For example:

• 1st dose AstraZeneca, 2nd dose Pfizer, 3rd dose Moderna (3 doses) is acceptable
• 1st dose J&J, 2nd dose Novavax (2 doses) is acceptable
• 1st dose Pfizer, 2nd dose Pfizer (2 doses) is not acceptable

Note in particular that the Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines are not recognised by Japan.

Update 26 September: Japan’s Government has announced that from 11th October 2022, three doses of any WHO-approved vaccine will be regarded as acceptable for entry, including China-made Sinopharm, Sinovac and Convidecia.

All is not lost if you don’t meet the vaccination criteria though.

A negative pre-departure PCR test result within 72 hours of departure will also suffice in place of fully vaccinated and boosted status.

These tests now start at only S$50 in Singapore , a fraction of the early 2021 rates of ~S$200! There are also a wide range of options in the S$68-80 range, plus home testing from S$98.

The test certificate must be in English and the test type can be via nasal swab or the less invasive saliva method (which starts from S$88 in Singapore ).

Singapore is on the ‘Blue List’

Good news for those looking forward to a trip to Japan – Singapore is on the country’s ‘Blue List’ , whereby no testing or quarantine is required, regardless of your vaccination status.

Japan entry requirements by country category

* Pre-departure test ^ On-arrival test

Your travel history in the last 14 days prior to entry into Japan determines the category you must adhere to, with the strictest being enforced.

The full list of countries by category is  available here .

There are currently no countries on the Red List at the time of writing, but do be aware that Yellow List countries include India, Fiji, Turkey, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the Maldives .

That has potential implications if you don’t meet Japan’s strict vaccination criteria and you returned to Singapore from one of these countries in the last 14 days before a Japan trip, since you will then be subject to on-arrival PCR testing and quarantine.

What about children?

Children aged under 18 entering Japan can follow the same rules as their parent(s), even if they are not fully vaccinated, provided they are accompanied by fully vaccinated and boosted parent(s).

Japan’s reopening has been painfully slow

Japan closed its borders to non-nationals back in March 2020, with only Japanese citizens and residents eligible to enter the country for a period of over two years.

Since then it’s been a piecemeal reopening, including the following ‘milestones’, if you can call them that:

• November 2021: Business visitors and students allowed to enter with three days of quarantine, instead of 10 days.
• April 2022: Entry ban lifted for foreigners from over 100 countries, but they were still required to apply for a visa, which would not be granted for tourism purposes.
• May 2022: Small groups of tourists, totalling just 50, from Singapore, Australia, Thailand and the USA, were invited to visit on prearranged package tours.
• June 2022: Daily arrival cap doubled from 10,000 to 20,000, including returning citizens and residents. Removal of on-arrival testing and quarantine in most cases.
• June 2022: International visitors permitted on prearranged guided package tours.
• September 2022: Pre-departure testing removed for fully vaccinated travellers, primarily helping Japanese citizens return from overseas more easily.
• September 2022: Daily arrival cap increased to 50,000, foreigners allowed to book non-guided tours through a travel agent (visa still required).
• 11th October 2022: Visa-free tourist travel restarts for 68 nationalities, no daily arrival cap, fully vaccinated and boosted travellers welcome to make free and easy travel arrangements, or have a pre-departure PCR test if vaccination criteria is not met.

As you can imagine, opening to guided tour groups and travel agent itineraries with visa approval required didn’t even move the needle on inbound tourist numbers, but this latest relaxation will be a serious shift-change.

Thousands per day will now descend on Japan once the restrictions cease from 11th October, and that is already ensuring that ticket prices are sky-high and flight award space is nearly non-existent .

Prepare to be flexible with dates or part with plenty of cash just to reach Japan and return home again in the coming months.

Japan didn’t need tourists back in a hurry

Prior to the pandemic Japan welcomed over 2.6 million foreign tourists per month, prompting many to wonder why it has been so slow to reopen its borders.

However, as a rich country with a large affluent population, tourism spend only accounted for 0.8% of Japan’s gross domestic product (GDP) pre-pandemic, significantly eclipsed by its huge services and manufacturing sectors.

Even with the broader impact of tourism estimated to be around 2.2% of GDP, border reopening wasn’t a high priority for Japan like it was for countries such as Thailand, for example, where the industry drives a quarter of the economy.

In some senses it’s therefore not surprising that Japan has taken a slow and cautious approach to welcoming tourists again, despite the obvious frustration it’s caused for many of our readers eager to return!

Singapore – Japan flights (October 2022)

Japan was linked to Singapore Changi Airport by over 190 direct weekly flights prior to the pandemic, including the major cities like Tokyo and Osaka through to less-well-trodden locations like Hiroshima and Okinawa.

In October 2022 it’s a far cry from those kind of flight volumes, with only 79 direct weekly flights on offer , which means years of pent-up demand will inevitably be funnelled on less than half the number of services previously available.

Here’s how the schedule looks.

Singapore – Japan flights (from November 2022)

For the upcoming winter season starting in November 2022, there are already some planned increases on Singapore – Japan routes.

• Tokyo from 21/wk to 28/wk
• Osaka from 7/wk to 14/wk
• Fukuoka from 2/wk to 3/wk
• Tokyo from 14/wk to 21/wk
• Tokyo from 10/wk to 14/wk
• Osaka from 5/wk to 7/wk
• Sapporo launches 4/wk via Taipei plus 3/wk non-stop

In total, these additional 41 flights per week will bring Singapore – Japan direct services back to 64% of pre-COVID volumes, but that almost certainly still won’t be enough to temper high fares and near-zero award space , as “revenge travel” to the country inevitably takes hold.

What about other Japan routes?

SilkAir permanently axed its non-stop flights from Singapore to Hiroshima in March 2020 due to weak demand, while there’s no word yet on whether Jetstar will restart its five-times-weekly Singapore – Okinawa services, in light of this border relaxation.

Jetstar was also serving Osaka from Singapore 22 times per week before the pandemic, via either Taipei, Manila or Clark, but no return to these routes has been confirmed at the time of writing.

Let’s hope that by cherry blossom season, starting in mid-March 2023, there will be several more options than the current published winter schedules suggest!

Awards (or a lack thereof!)

As you might imagine, award space on these limited flights between Singapore and Japan is nearly non-existent for the rest of 2022.

In common with Europe and US routes, the supply / demand equation is simply killing this option on most flights, particularly non-stop SIA-operated ones, and driving cash fares sky-high.

If you can find an award seat, here are the latest KrisFlyer award rates between Singapore and Japan, when flying on Singapore Airlines.

We did find some sporadic SIA Business Class award space one-way from Japan to Singapore at Advantage levels in December, but don’t be in any doubt – this isn’t a country coming up on Spontaneous Escapes any time soon!

Remember you can also use British Airways Avios points (including those transferred across 1:1 from Qatar Airways Avios points) to book oneworld awards to and from Japan with JAL.

Alaska Miles and Asia Miles are also options for oneworld flights.

No mask mandates in Japan

Japan does not legally impose mask-wearing in most settings, provided you maintain social distancing.

Mask-wearing is already optional on Singapore Airlines and Scoot flights to and from Japan, however do note that ANA, JAL and Zipair are currently maintaining their own mandatory mask mandates for all passengers.

Remember airlines are private transport operators – so you must comply with their own mask-wearing requirements, even if they are stricter than those of your origin or destination country.

It’s taken some time, but it’s fantastic to see Japan reopen its borders to visa-free tourist travel again next month, reinstating free and easy trips to and from this popular destination for Singapore citizens and those with 67 other nationalities, just like pre-COVID times.

This means from 11th October 2022 it will no longer be a requirement to make bookings through a travel agent or arrange a guided tour, nor will a visa application be necessary for most visitors.

Vaccination is still required for a hassle-free trip, but even if you don’t meet Japan’s strict “jab criteria” it’s still possible to visit with a negative pre-departure PCR test, now costing as little as S$50 in Singapore.

Sadly seat capacity on flights between Singapore and Japan is woefully poor compared to pre-COVID times, even with a few planned increases coming through from November.

Let’s hope for announcements of additional travel options between Singapore and Japan soon, since looking at both fares and award space this coming winter is enough to bring pained expression to the face of even well-versed frequent flyers.

Are you booking a Japan trip following this latest news? Let us know in the comments section below.

(Cover Photo: Shutterstock)

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15 comments

hi, is Japan restriction ease? Still cannot find confirmation update on Japan Embassy website (Singapore).

Yes from 11th October. It will take them time to update the website, this was only announced by the PM a few hours ago.

alright. didnt see any official update so didnt dare to make bookings.

Hi Andrew, do you think that even without the update on their official website it should be safe enough to book unrefundable plane tickets (as there are great prices for now which will likely keep increasing fast)? Thanks!

are you aware if i transit in BKK onwards to Sapporo flying thai, will i be able to get into Japan as if i am flying from Singapore. Any restrictions flying from Thailand to Japan in Dec after Oct 11?

Both Singapore and Thailand are “Blue List” countries for Japan, so no issue 👍🏼

Why is Sinovac/Sinopharm Covid 19 vaccines not recognized by Japan when they are recognized by WHO? Seems like Japan does not want visitors from China.

They are recognized from 11 October onwards. See latest update here:

https://www.sg.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/PDT_00001.html

Wonder if you know for sg children under 7 years old, but not vaccinated at all, would they require PCR test, thanks?

No need pcr but must travel with adult who are fully vaccinated with booster shot

Hi Robin what if the adults are vaccinated w sinopharm and booster w novavax? They are not recognised in japan and will be taking pcr tests. What abt the children traveling with them?

There is a table (I saw is when I was browsing can’t locate it at this moment) where they show the types of vaccines are accepted by Japan’s authority.

If I can find I will share the link here.

I used to have a 5-year tourist visa to japan, but they suspended all visas in 2020 when pandemic hit. (at the same time they suspended visa waiver agreements with other countries) Now that they are lifting the latter suspension, i wonder if they will do the same to the first…

“Japan didn’t need tourists back in a hurry” the most important section in the article…Japan is and will be xenophobic…don’t that make you feel like a sucker to wanna be so desperate to go travel there?

Latest update: All vaccines on the WHO EUL list are accepted by the Japanese government for entry from 11 October onwards. Yes, that includes Sinopharm and Sinovac which were previously not recognized.

Source: https://www.sg.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/PDT_00001.html

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01 Oct 2022 - 3 min read

Traveling to Japan: Visa for Singaporeans, Requirements, and More

Good news! Travel restrictions for foreign tourists entering Japan have eased. The new regulations will apply from October 11, 2022. As we all know, Japan is one of the top travel destinations for Singaporeans. So, this reopening is a breath of fresh air for travel enthusiasts!

According to Nikkei Asia, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that short-term tourists from 68 countries, including Singapore, will no longer have to get a visa. Before visiting “The Land of the Rising Sun”, make sure you have read important information about Japan visa application here!

Japan Travel Requirements for Singaporeans

Based on the Japanese New Border Measures, Singapore is classified as a “Blue” country. Regardless of the entrants’ vaccination status, home quarantine and other measures post-entry into Japan are not required.

However, every visitor must show a third dose vaccination certificate or a negative test result taken 3x24 hours prior to departure. Any type of vaccine on the World Health Organization’s list will be accepted.

Previously, tourists were obligated to book travel packages through agencies. With the new regulations coming, this system will be removed. Now, you will be able to travel spontaneously outside packaged tours. Traveling to Japan will feel like the old times again!

Is a Visa Required for Traveling to Japan?

Starting from October 11, 2022, short-term visa exemption measures from pre-pandemic will be resumed for 68 countries and regions including Singapore. So, you will not need to obtain a visa when traveling to Japan for an up to 90 days visit, whether it is for visiting families, vacation, or other unpaid activities.

If you are going to stay for more than 3 months for tourism, visiting family, or business, you are required to apply for a long-term visa prior to departure. In addition, short-term stay that includes paid or income-earning activities also requires you to get a visa.

How to Apply for Japan Visa

What does a Singaporean need to apply for a visa to Japan? What are the steps of a Japan visa application?

For those of you who are going for a long-term stay or work, you must follow a few procedures before applying for a visa.

The full information can be accessed on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and Embassy of Japan in Singapore’s official websites, but here are a few steps Traveloka has collected for you.

1. Prepare the required documents

Before submitting your application, there are a few documents that you need to prepare. Starting from your Japan visa application form, passport, and many more. Everything depends on your residential status, length of stay, and purpose of visiting. Check out the full list here .

2. Submit your visa application

After collecting all the required documents, you can visit the Embassy of Japan in Singapore and submit them to the visa counter. Take notes of the address and hotline number down below:

Embassy of Japan in Singapore 16 NASSIM ROAD SINGAPORE 258390 (+65) 6235-8855

Opening hours for visa counters: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM (submission) & 1:30PM - 4:00PM (collection)

Japan Visa Information Hotline (Singapore residents only): TEL8004922526 (24/7 English only)

3. Wait for your visa to be processed and collect it

According to the Embassy of Japan in Singapore, it takes up to 5 working days to process a Japanese visa application. It is recommended for you to apply not so close before your departure date to prevent any unwanted delay.

Any additional supporting documents will require more time. So, make sure you have all the correct and complete documents before sending out your application.

Prior to collecting your visa, here are the fees for Japan visa application:

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Japan has taken measures on the visa exemption arrangements for 71 countries/regions as shown in the chart below.

・Period of Stay

• The period of stay granted at the time of the landing permission will be "15 days" for Indonesia and Thailand, “14 days” for Brunei, "30 days" for United Arab Emirates and Qatar, and "90 days" for other countries and regions.
• (Note 1) For nationals of Indonesia (since December 1, 2014), visas are not required only for those who have registered ICAO-compliant ePassport to diplomatic missions of Japan in Indonesia (the embassy, consulates-general, or the consulate). Validity of the registration is three years period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
• (Note 2) For nationals of Malaysia (since July 1, 2013), visas are not required only for holders of ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards. Those who do not hold such ePassport are advised to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be strictly examined and may be refused entry to Japan.
• (Note 3) For nationals of Panama (since April 1, 2024), Brazil (since September 30, 2023), United Arab Emirates (since November 1, 2022), Thailand (since July 1, 2013) and Serbia (since May 1, 2011), visas are not required only for holders of ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards. Those who do not hold such ePassport are requested to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be refused to enter Japan.
• (Note 4) For citizens of Hong Kong, visas are not required only for holders of Special Administrative Region (SAR) passport issued by the Hong Kong SAR of the People’s Republic of China or British National Overseas (BNO) passports who have the right of residence in Hong Kong.
• (Note 5) For citizens of Macao, visas are not required only for holders of SAR passport issued by the Macao SAR of the People’s Republic of China.
• (Note 6) Visa exemption arrangements for Taiwan is limited to passport holders with a personal ID number.
• (Note 7) For nationals of Barbados (since April 1, 2010), Türkiye (since April 1, 2011) and Lesotho (since April 1, 2010), visas are not required only for holders of Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) in compliance with ICAO standards. Those who do not hold an MRP are advised to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be strictly examined and may be refused entry to Japan.
• (Note 8) For nationals of those countries with visa exemptions permitting stays of up to 6 months under the bilateral visa exemption arrangements, those who wish to stay in Japan for more than 90 days are required to apply for an extension of the period of stay to the Ministry of Justice (Regional Immigration Bureau) before the period of permitted stay is to expire.
• (Note 9) For nationals of Qatar (since April 2, 2023), visas are not required only for those who have registered ICAO-compliant ePassport to diplomatic missions of Japan (the embassy, consulates-general, or the consulate). Validity of the registration is three years period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
• (Note 10)Nationals of Peru (since July 15,1995) and Colombia (since February 1, 2004) are advised to obtain a visa in advance, otherwise will be strictly examined and may be refused entry to Japan.

Machine-Readable Passport (MRP) in compliance with ICAO standards

MRP in compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards has certain individual information, which is able to be read by computer, entered on the identity page of the passport.

ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards

ePassport in compliance with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards has IC chip that stores certain individual and biometric data including a digital image of the passport photograph. ePassport in compliance with ICAO standards has ePassport’s symbol on the front cover of the passport.

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DHS Begins Collecting 10 Fingerprints from International Visitors at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption Enters into Force

USCIS to Accept H-1B Petitions Sent to California or Vermont Service Centers Temporary Accommodation Made for FY 09 Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative

USCIS Announces Update for Processing Petitions for Nonimmigrant Victims of Criminal Activity

USCIS to Allow F-1 Students Opportunity to Request Change of Status

Immigration Tops Agenda at North American Summit

USCIS Issues Guidance for Approved Violence against Women Act (VAWA) Self-Petitioners

USCIS Modifies Application for Employment Authorization Previous Versions of Form I-765 Accepted until July 8, 2008

Overseas Education More Attainable for Chinese Students

New York Business Group Seeks Fewer Restrictions on Foreign Worker Visas

The purpose of your intended travel and other facts will determine what type of visa is required under U.S. immigration law. As a visa applicant, you will need to establish that you meet all requirements to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. When you apply at a U.S embassy or consulate, a consular officer will determine based on laws, whether you are eligible to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate.

Nonimmigrant Visa Categories

The chart below contains many different purposes of temporary travel and the related nonimmigrant visa categories available on this website. Select a visa category below to learn more:

*What the abbreviations above mean  - Before applying for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, the following is required:

• DOL = The U.S. employer must obtain foreign labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, prior to filing a petition with USCIS.
• USCIS = U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approval of a petition or application (The required petition or application depends on the visa category you plan to apply for.)
• SEVIS = Program approval entered in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
• (NA) = Not Applicable - Additional approval by another U.S. government agency is not required prior to applying for a visa

Important Notes:

• About this chart – It is not a complete list of all travel purposes for the visa category. Select a visa category webpage for more information. The chart lists almost all nonimmigrant visa categories, with the exception of several not listed above. Refer to the Foreign Affairs Manual, 9 FAM 402.1  for all nonimmigrant visa categories.
• Canadian NAFTA Professional workers – A visa not required; apply to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at border port of entry.
• K nonimmigrant visas – For U.S. citizen fiancé(e) and spouse for immigration related purposes. Refer to Immigrant Visa Categories .

Immigrant Visa Categories

The chart below contains different purposes for immigrating to the United States, and the related immigrant visa categories for which information is available on this website. Select a visa category below to learn more:

* K Visas – Listed with immigrant visas because they are for immigration related purposes.

About this chart - This chart is a list of many immigrant visa categories, but not every immigrant visa category.

** Refer to the Foreign Affairs Manual, 9 FAM 502.1  for a listing of all immigrant visa categories.

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News Diversity Visa Program What is a U.S. Visa? Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

Global Visa Wait Times

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Analysis-Chinese Outbound Travel Recovery Lags Due to Costs, Visa Snags

FILE PHOTO: Passengers look at the tarmac as they wait for their flights at the Beijing Capital International Airport, in Beijing, China April 20, 2024. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang/File Photo

By Sophie Yu, Casey Hall and Lisa Barrington

BEIJING/SHANGHAI (Reuters) - A recovery in Chinese overseas travel from the COVID-19 pandemic is fading as rising costs and difficulties in securing visas cement a preference for local and short-haul destinations.

The delay in a revival to pre-COVID levels by China's outbound travellers, the world's top spenders on international tourism and airlines, is hitting travel-related companies, hotels and retailers globally.

Eighteen months after China dropped strict zero-COVID policies and reopened its borders, the recovery in overseas travel is lagging behind market expectations and the shape of Chinese travel is changing, with a surge in domestic trips.

Pressured by a prolonged property crisis, high unemployment and a gloomy outlook in the world's second-biggest economy, Chinese consumers have become more frugal since the pandemic, prompting discount wars on everything from travel to cars, coffee and clothes.

Chinese people took 87 million trips abroad last year, down 40% from pre-COVID 2019, and industry observers say the pace has slowed since the Lunar New Year in February. China's travellers spent 24% less last year than in 2019, while U.S. travellers' spending was up 14%, according to U.N. Tourism data. The Chinese lag is bad news for countries like France, Australia and the U.S., which were among the top destinations for Chinese travellers before the pandemic.

Liu Simin, vice president of the tourism branch of the China Society for Futures Studies research institute, forecasts China's international travel might not recover to pre-pandemic levels for another five years.

"The recovery is a lot slower than expected," Liu said. "The devaluation of the Chinese yuan combined with inflation in the U.S. and Europe is a double blow."

The Chinese currency has fallen more than 2% against the dollar since the start of the year, raising costs in yuan terms for Chinese travellers abroad.

Consultancy Oliver Wyman last month pushed its estimates for China's international travel recovery to late 2025, half a year later than it forecast last year.

"I would actually argue that consumers are even more cost-conscious than last year, and you'll also see that feed into travel trends," said Imke Wouters, Hong Kong-based partner at Oliver Wyman.

To be sure, overseas travel is rebounding, with Chinese travellers again the world’s top spenders on international tourism last year after falling behind the United States in 2022, according to U.N. Tourism data.

This summer 8% of flights at Chinese airports have been international, up from just 1% in 2022, according to aviation data provider OAG.

FLIP TO DOMESTIC TRAVEL

That recovery, however, is overshadowed by the surge in domestic trips, which hit a record 295 million during the five-day May Day holiday, up more than 20% from 2019, official data showed.

Domestic airlines seats were up 16% in May from the same month in 2019, while international flights were down 30%, Cirium data shows.

Wouters at Oliver Wyman said 40% of those who travelled abroad in 2023 for the first time since borders reopened had decided not to travel internationally again this year, mainly due to inconvenience and long visa processing times for many European destinations.

Beijing resident Wang Shu, 38, vacationed domestically after cancelling a trip to France because he could not get a visa, despite trying to book a visa appointment months ahead.

"I tried booking the interview in late March, as I planned to attend the French Open tennis in late May, but the earliest date that I could book was June 19," Wang said.

Wang instead vacationed in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, known for its spicy food.

"The food was great, I watched a concert and spent one-tenth of the money I'd have spent in France," he said.

Australia's top source of tourists before COVID, China is now number four, with arrivals down 53% in March from March 2019, said Margy Osmond, chief executive of Tourism & Transport Forum Australia.

Chinese travellers to France, the most visited country in the world, have reached only 28.5% of 2019 levels, according to airport operator ADP.

Capacity on U.S.-China routes remains down more than 80% from 2019 levels, weighed by intensifying bilateral political tensions. The U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office expects Chinese tourism to the U.S. to recover fully only in 2026.

By contrast, countries with visa-free policies have received strong growth in Chinese visitors.

These include Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, where flight capacity has also increased.

Switzerland, growing in popularity with high-end travellers on Trip.com, boasts a seven-day visa process, said Jane Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group.

Japan has also received a surge in Chinese travellers this year, boosted by a plunge in the yen's value.

"We are not just seeing a market re-growing, we are seeing a market re-shaping," Gary Bowerman, director of tourism intelligence firm Check-In Asia, told an OAG webinar last month.

(Reporting by Sophie Yu in Beijing, Casey Hall in Shanghai and Lisa Barrington in Seoul; Additional reporting by Diana Mandia in Gdansk; Editing by Miyoung Kim and William Mallard)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Photos You Should See - June 2024

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India Visa Requirements

You will need a visa to enter Singapore if you are holding a travel document issued by this country.  However, please note that holders of diplomatic, official and service passports do not need a visa for entry.

Documents Required

You will need to provide original documents and official translations (for documents in languages other than English), as well as copies of the documents for ICA to retain.

ICA accepts:

• Translations provided by the embassy of the country that issued the document
• Translations produced by a notary public in Singapore or the country that issued the document
• Privately created translations attested by the embassy of the country that issued the document, or notarised by a notary public in Singapore or the country that issued the document.

ICA does not endorse any private translation companies or entities. Insufficient documentation may result in non-acceptance of your application. You may be required to provide additional documents to support your application.

To apply for an entry visa for business or social visits, you will need the following documents:

• Duly completed Form 14A  (PDF, 202KB) signed by you.Your visa application shall be made based on the information declared in this form. ICA may request for the form to be submitted.
• Your recent passport-sized colour photograph taken within the last three months. Please see Photo Guidelines  for information on photo requirements.
• A photocopy of your passport biodata page (valid for at least six months from the date of your entry into Singapore) 

Additional supporting documents (e.g., Form V39A  (PDF, 192KB) (Letter of Introduction for Visa Application (LOI)) may be required on a case-by-case basis.

Applying in Singapore Your visa application can be submitted online using the e-Service  through a strategic partner or a local contact in Singapore.

You are advised to apply for an entry visa within 30 days prior to arrival in Singapore.

Applying at a Singapore Overseas Mission Your visa application can be submitted at the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission  or through its authorised visa agent.

To learn about the specific visa application procedure, you will need to visit the website of the Singapore Overseas Mission you plan to go to.

• User manuals (English) for Authorised Visa Agent/Strategic Partner Click here  for manual (PDF, 3.9MB) on submission of application for Individual Visa. Click here  for manual (PDF, 4.6MB) on submission of application for Collective Gratis Visa. Click here  for manual (PDF, 4.4MB) on submission of application for Family Visa.
• User manuals (English) for Local Contact Click here  for manual (PDF, 5MB) on submission of application for Individual Visa (for submission by individual user). Click here  for manual (PDF, 3.8MB) on submission of application for Individual Visa (for submission by corporate/business user). Click here  for manual (PDF, 4.3MB) on submission of application for Family Visa.

A S$30 non-refundable processing fee is payable online using a Visa or MasterCard credit/debit card.

Processing Time

Your visa application will be processed within three working days (excluding the day of submission). Some applications may take longer to process.

Each visa application will be considered on its own merits.

If your application is approved, your local contact, strategic partner or authorised visa agent can use the e-Service  to print a copy of your e-Visa for you.

Related Links

• Advisory: Applying for Long-Term Immigration Facilities Through Commercial Entities or Consultants
• Public Advisory on Websites Offering Services Relating to the Submission of SG Arrival Card
• Document - Form 14A (PDF, 147KB)
• Document - Form V39A (PDF, 192KB)
• Document - Visa Agent/Strategic Partner - User Manual for application of Individual Visa (PDF, 3.9MB)
• Document - Visa Agent/Strategic Partner - User Manual for application of Collective Gratis Visa (PDF, 4.6MB)
• Document - Visa Agent/Strategic Partner - User Manual for application of Family Visa (PDF, 4.4MB)
• Document - Local Contact - User Manual for application of Individual Visa (for submission by individual user) (PDF, 5MB)
• Document - Local Contact - User Manual for application of Individual Visa (for submission by corporate/business user) (PDF, 3.8MB)
• Document - Local Contact - User Manual for application of Family Visa (PDF, 4.3MB)

The world’s most expensive visas for UK holidaymakers

Each year, the Henley Passport Index measures the number of countries travellers can visit visa-free. 

The UK usually ranks reasonably highly : in 2024, with 192 countries visitable visa-free, it came third, level with Denmark and Belgium.

France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore and Spain are all, collectively, the most powerful, with their passport-holders able to visit 194 without the documentation. While the rankings rarely shift dramatically, Britain’s post-Brexit position means that our travel habits may have to change soon – travel to Europe will, eventually, necessitate the purchase of an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) waiver, valid for three years. 

Such schemes have allowed easier – and cheaper – travel to countries that are perceived as UK allies.

In 2008, the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) was introduced in the US – a visa waiver scheme that, subject to security checks, allows the residents of 41 nations to enter the country.

It currently costs around $21, or £17, but if holidaymakers are unable to meet the ESTA criteria, a full visa may be required, at the price of up to $185 (£145).

Similar waiver schemes exist for UK travellers to New Zealand and Canada. And those international relationships can result in some surprising border regulations: in Sri Lanka , almost all travellers require a visa, apart from those based in Hong Kong, Maldives, Seychelles, Singapore and – the only European entry – the Czech Republic, as a result of reciprocity. 

In the countries that the UK does require a visa for, prices vary wildly and are often subject to change. The time between application and the trip, plus the length of the trip itself, can result in vastly inflated fees: meaning travellers are advised to apply well in advance.  

At the lower end of the scale, a visa for Nepal will set British holidaymakers back around £25; Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Bhutan roughly £31. Travellers to the latter should note that while the travel document cost is small, its tourist fee currently sits at $100 (£78) per day.

For the African countries that require UK visas (such as Ethiopia and Sierra Leone), the price typically varies from around £40 to £60.

Exceptions include Niger and Ghana (both £100), and Nigeria, which is among the most expensive for British travellers at £113. 

Other steep fees include the newly tourist-focused Saudi Arabia , at £108, and India, at £127. China charges UK residents a minimum of £151. And countries that the FCDO specifically warns against travelling to, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Iran, have similarly high prices, at £135 and £185 respectively. Conversely, most South and Central American countries allow visa-free travel for between a month and 90 days. 

That isn’t to say it is necessarily easy to acquire these visas. While most embassies now offer electronic versions – negating the need for an in-person visit – their websites can be difficult to navigate or hard to verify their authenticity. Others, such as Turkmenistan, require visitors to present a “letter of introduction” as part of the application process.

Then there is the risk of visa purchasing websites, purporting to be an official source of border documentation, which often mimic the style of the real visa websites and upcharge potential travellers: providing them with the visa, while also adding service fees for themselves. Countries that see very few British travellers are not, understandably, set up to facilitate such requests.

People visiting Guinea-Bissau , for example, require a visa unless they live in one of the 14 surrounding west African nations, but information on how to acquire one as a UK visitor is scarce (one estimate, however, has the cost at £207, making it the most expensive in the world for British travellers). 

There are, of course, reciprocal schemes for inbound tourists. Holidaymakers from the European Union, the US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, South Korea and Singapore are able to visit the UK visa-free.

Those who are not exempt – including places such as India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia and Thailand are charged £115 for a standard visitor visa, which allows entry into the country for a maximum of six months.

The high cost has been slammed by industry experts: in 2022, when the charge rose 5 per cent to £100, a spokesperson for UKInbound called the charges “uncompetitive” and “incredibly detrimental economic impact on the UK inbound tourism sector.” Since then, the cost has only increased. 

It is out of step with the cost of travelling to Europe more generally, although the Schengen area fee rose on June 11 from €80 (£68) to €90 (£76). The European Commission cited rising inflation within its member states as the cause.

Travellers from South Africa, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and China, then, should brace for changes; those who are entitled to 90 days in the Schengen area , like the US, Canada, Australia and the UK remain exempt. Regardless of one’s country of origin, it pays to check for surprising visa fees before travel. 

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Hang Seng Launches Its First-Ever Travel-Themed Credit Card

• June 17, 2024 — 18:10 CST

Travel+ Visa Signature Card Offers Exceptional Rebates for Foreign Currency Expenditures

Dual Discounts on Local Transportation and Dining  to Encourage Increased Spending within Hong Kong

HONG KONG , June 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hang Seng Bank ('Hang Seng') has launched its Travel+ Visa Signature Card, the first travel-themed credit card designed to enrich both overseas and local spending experiences. This card offers an array of attractive rebates on foreign currency expenditures and local dining and transportation, redefining the rewards landscape for travel-savvy customers.

Hang Seng customers using the Travel+ Visa Signature Card will enjoy up to a 7% +FUN Dollars rebate on foreign currency spending in top destinations favoured by Hong Kong travellers, including Japan , Korea, Thailand , Singapore , and Australia . Additionally, expenditures in the mainland and other international locations, as well as local transportation spending, involving KMB, Citybus, LWB, MTR, tram, Star Ferry , and dining in the city will earn up to a 5% rebate, enhancing everyday convenience and enjoyment.

The +FUN Dollars earned can be instantly used at over 150,000 online and offline +FUN Spots. These include various travel websites, allowing customers to use +FUN Dollars to directly purchase air tickets. Customers have the flexibility to choose various types of air tickets and flights, as well as their preferred departure and return dates. They can also use +FUN Dollars to book hotels, rent cars for overseas trips, and even pre-order attraction tickets and travel activities. Additionally, +FUN Dollars can be used to offset Hang Seng credit card bills, offering flexibility and value to cardholders.

Rannie Lee , Head of Wealth and Personal Banking at Hang Seng said, "We're pleased to offer the first travel-themed credit card to our customers with a unique market positioning. We understand that Hong Kong people love travelling and what they need is a one-stop and multi-faceted rewards convenience. The Travel+ Visa Signature Card is more than just a mere tool to maximise rewards and convenience for our customers' spending both abroad and at home. It also enables customers to directly use rewards for purchasing air tickets and hotel accommodations, truly fulfilling their travel dream of 'fly whenever you want'."

In celebration of the card's launch, Hang Seng has collaborated with prominent travel influencers including Sabrina Ng , SiuC, Chris Leung Yin Chung , and Kiki&May, who have shared their travel and spending tips in a specially produced advertisement. The videos are now available on Hang Seng's official YouTube channel ( https://youtu.be/mNwuEHTwnWg ). From today ( 17 June 2024 ) until 31 December 2024 , new cardholders can avail themselves of exclusive welcome offers, including the chance to earn up to $700 +FUN Dollars. For more information, please visit hangseng.com/travelplus .

About Hang Seng Bank Founded in 1933, Hang Seng has continually innovated to provide best-in-class, customer-centric banking, investment and wealth management services for individuals and businesses. It is widely recognised as the leading domestic bank in Hong Kong , currently serving more than 3.9 million customers.

Combining its award-winning mobile app and strong digital capabilities with a vast network of over 260 service outlets in Hong Kong , Hang Seng offers a seamless omni-channel experience for customers to take care of their banking and financial needs anytime, anywhere.

Its wholly owned subsidiary, Hang Seng Bank ( China ) Limited, operates a strategic network of outlets in almost 20 major cities in mainland China to serve a growing base of mainland customers locally and those with cross-boundary banking needs. The Bank also operates branches in Macau and Singapore , and a representative office in Taipei .

As a homegrown financial institution, Hang Seng is closely tied to the Hong Kong community. It supports the community with a dedicated programme of social and environmental initiatives focused on future skills for the younger generation, sustainable finance and financial literacy, addressing climate change and caring for the community.

Hang Seng is a principal member of the HSBC Group, one of the world's largest banking and financial services organisations. More information on Hang Seng is available at www.hangseng.c om .

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