A Guide to Singapore’s Long-Term Visit Pass

The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is a crucial immigration document issued by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore. It allows eligible foreign individuals to stay in Singapore for an extended period, typically due to family ties or long-term social visits. Understanding the requirements, application process, and benefits of the LTVP can help applicants navigate the system efficiently.

Who qualifies for the Long-Term Visit Pass?

Eligibility for an LTVP depends on the applicant’s relationship to a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (PR) or their purpose of stay in the country.

LTVP for family members

• Spouse of a Singapore citizen or PR – Couples are encouraged to complete the Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment (PMLA) before marriage to improve their chances of approval.
• Unmarried children under 21 – The child must be born within a legal marriage or legally adopted by a Singapore Citizen or PR.
• Parents of Singapore citizens or PRs – Only biological parents qualify. Parents-in-law are not eligible.

LTVP for long-term social visits

• Graduates from an institute of higher learning – Those seeking employment in Singapore may apply for an LTVP while looking for a job.
• Parents or grandparents of a child studying in Singapore – Only one parent or grandparent may apply at a time.
• Visitors seeking permission to give birth in Singapore – Expectant mothers who need to remain in Singapore for childbirth.

Each category has specific documentation requirements, which applicants must prepare carefully before applying.

Applying for the LTVP: What you need to know

The LTVP application process requires careful preparation to avoid delays or rejections.

Step-by-step application process

1. Identify a sponsor – The applicant must have a sponsor who is either a Singapore Citizen or PR. The sponsor must log in to the ICA e-Service using their SingPass to initiate the application.
2. Meet the minimum income requirement – Sponsors must meet a minimum fixed monthly salary of S$6,000 (US$4,488) to support an LTVP applicant. If the sponsor is applying for their parent’s LTVP, the minimum fixed monthly salary requirement increases to S$12,000 (US$8,978).
3. Gather required documents – Essential documents include marriage certificates, birth certificates, proof of relationship, financial documents, and educational qualifications where applicable.
4. Apply online – Applications are submitted via the ICA e-Service portal. In some cases, applicants may need to attend an interview.
5. Undergo medical and security checks – Certain applicants may need to complete a medical examination or background screening as part of the process.
6. Wait for processing – Processing times vary, but typically take a few weeks.

To increase approval chances, applicants should ensure documents are correctly translated (if required), meet financial requirements, and complete the PMLA if applying as a spouse.

Rights and limitations of LTVP holders

Holding an LTVP in Singapore comes with both privileges and restrictions.

What LTVP holders can do

• Work in Singapore – Spouses of Singaporeans and PRs may apply for a Letter of Consent (LOC) to work legally.
• Study in Singapore: Certain categories of LTVP holders may be allowed to enroll in local institutions.
• Access healthcare services – LTVP holders can receive medical care, though they may not qualify for full subsidies.

Limitations and responsibilities

• Work restrictions – Without an LOC, LTVP holders cannot take up employment.
• Housing limitations – LTVP holders cannot own property directly unless they qualify under other residency schemes.
• Financial responsibility of sponsors – The sponsor is legally responsible for the LTVP holder’s well-being, including financial support.

Renewing and extending an LTVP

Renewing an LTVP in Singapore requires careful planning to ensure continuity of stay. Eligibility for renewal depends on the applicant maintaining the same qualifying conditions as in the initial application, including financial stability and valid supporting documents.

The renewal process should be initiated well before the pass expires to avoid any gaps in residency status. Applicants must submit updated documents, such as proof of relationship, financial statements, and other required certifications, through the ICA e-Service portal.

Any changes in personal circumstances, such as marital status or employment, must be promptly reported, as these can impact LTVP eligibility. Failure to comply with renewal requirements or report significant changes may lead to delays, complications, or even revocation of the pass.

Costs and financial considerations

Applying for and maintaining an LTVP comes with various financial commitments that both the applicant and sponsor should be aware of.

The application fee for an LTVP is S$105 per application, payable at the time of submission. If the application is approved, an issuance fee of S$60 is required before the pass is granted. In some cases, extra administrative charges may apply for document notarization, translation, or medical examinations.

Sponsors must also meet minimum income requirements as stated previously to prove they can financially support the LTVP holder, and if the sponsor is applying for their parent’s LTVP, the salary requirement increases. This requirement ensures that sponsors can adequately support LTVP holders and meet their financial needs while residing in Singapore.

Providing salary slips, tax statements, or bank records may be necessary as proof of financial stability. In some cases, additional financial commitments—such as medical insurance or security bonds—may be required, depending on the applicant’s profile.

Common reasons for LTVP rejections and how to appeal

Even well-prepared applications may face rejection. If this happens, applicants should understand the possible reasons and how to respond.

Why applications get rejected

• Insufficient proof of relationship or financial stability
• Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
• Failing medical or security clearance

Appeal process

• Review the rejection letter for specific reasons.
• Gather additional supporting documents to address the concerns.
• Submit an appeal through ICA’s online platform, following their prescribed process.

Engaging professional assistance can improve the chances of a successful appeal.

Pathway from LTVP to permanent residency

Many LTVP holders eventually seek Permanent Residency (PR) in Singapore.

How to transition from LTVP to PR

• Eligibility requirements – Strong financial standing, stable employment, and length of stay in Singapore influence approval chances.
• Application process – PR applications are submitted through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority.
• Key considerations – Factors like family ties, employment contributions, and social integration efforts play a role in approval.

Successfully transitioning from an LTVP to PR opens more opportunities, including greater job security and access to public services.

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