Travel Visa | 5 Countries That Require a Travel Visa if You’re Singaporean
Good news for all! Singapore has once again topped the world's most powerful passports – alongside Japan - according to the Henley Passport Index.
This is because Singapore passport holders can travel to 193 countries visa-free or with visa-on-arrival. In other words, if you’re a Singapore citizen, you can travel visa-free across Asia, the Middle East, the United States, Europe, Oceania and Africa.
But there are still 36 destinations around the world, where Singapore passport holders either need a physical visa to enter or an eVisa.
To make it a little easier for you, we’ve listed 5 countries that require a travel visa if you’re Singaporean, how you can apply for it, how long it may take to obtain and most importantly, how much it costs.
1. Australia
A land with unique wildlife, pristine beaches, bustling cities, and large expanses of the outback, it's easy to see why this captivating country is a preferred travel destination.
However, if you’re a Singapore citizen looking to travel to Australia, you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter the country. It’s pretty convenient and does not take long to process - you can now apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app from the App Store or Google Play onto your mobile device. The ETA, if granted, will be valid for 1 year and will allow Singapore citizens to visit multiple times for up to 90 days per visit. Singapore citizens may also apply for a 6-year Australian Visitor visa (visa subclass 600) for long-term stay.
Where to apply: https://www.eta.homeaffairs.gov.au/ETAS3/etas
Application Fee: There is no Visa Application Charge (VAC). There may be an application service charge of AUD $20 (online)
Application Time: Your ETA is usually sent to you via email in a matter of hours. However, you are advised to apply for it at least 3 working days before your date of travel.
2. India
If you hold a Singapore passport, the only thing that stands between you and the Taj Mahal is a travel visa. Although there is an exception; if you’re a Singaporean of Indian ethnicity, you can apply to be recognised as an Overseas Citizen of India, a status which provides visa-free travel.
Visas-on-arrival are available at major airports in India, however, applying for a visa online can save you the trouble and time. The travel visa enables you to stay in India for up to 30 days.
Where to apply: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration
Application Fee: USD $25
Application Time: You should apply for your travel visa at least 4 working days before you are due to travel.
3. Bhutan
Wouldn’t you want to visit the happiest place on earth? Bhutan is a small Buddhist kingdom located between China, India, and Nepal.
Its authentic culture still stands strong in the face of globalisation and external influences. This way of life is retained through the limited number of foreigners that are allowed to visit which is why Singaporeans require a travel visa to enter.
Basically, you can only apply for a visa to this paradise through a Bhutanese tour operator or an international partner of one.
The travel visa to Bhutan is typically included within your travel package. This covers the visa fee, the cost of your accommodation, meals, tour guide, international transport, and equipment for trekking tours.
Where to apply: Through a licensed Bhutanese travel operator
Application Fee: USD $40 inclusive of a travel package
Application Time: Give yourself a lead time of at least 2 weeks to sort things out before your intended travel dates.
4. Russia
Russia is home to many wonderful looking cathedrals and mountains with a balance of history and nature.
However, it can be quite complicated to apply for a travel visa even as a tourist to the country. Firstly, Singaporeans are required to apply for a tourist invitation letter to be able to apply for a travel visa. A tourist invitation letter can be obtained from a relative or establishment that resides within the country. Otherwise, you can obtain an invitation letter from a local travel operator for a fee.
Where to apply: https://www.evisarussia.org/requirements/singapore/
Application Fee: Can cost between SGD $126 and $403 depending on processing time required and number of entries required. Regardless of how much the visa costs, there is an additional SGD $42 service charge.
Application Time: Generally, it will require anywhere between 4 days to 6 weeks to get your visa.
5. Venezuela
Generally safe for tourists visiting on organised tours, Venezuela is known for diverse natural attractions. Tourists love to visit its coastline which is the longest coastline on the Caribbean sea.
If you are doing a South American tour, take note that while you don’t need a visa for neighbouring Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, Peru or Ecuador, you will need a travel visa for Venezuela.
Where to apply: Venezuelan Embassy in Singapore at 163 Penang Rd
Application Fee: Varies
Application Time: You may want to factor in at least 3 months of application time before travelling to Venezuela, as there may be an interview during the pre-approval process.
Check Travel Visa Requirements Before Travelling
Although your Singapore passport allows you to travel to almost anywhere in the world, there are still a few countries that have strict entry requirements. It pays to check this before you buy your flight ticket and book your accommodation to your travel destination.
Another thing to check in advance is travel insurance requirements. Give yourself enough time to compare travel insurance online to find the cover and provider that suits you best.
Have you ever travelled to any of the countries above? Share your experiences in the comments section below!
