Digital Nomad Visa for Singapore: Requirements and How to Apply

Singapore is one of the most relevant destinations located in Asia, for all people who work digitally and need to find world-class spots that offer all utilities for digital nomadism. Here you will find out alternatives available to you if you wish to obtain a digital nomad visa in Singapore.

Singapore is a country that, as a digital nomad, you will love to get to know, thanks to its advanced infrastructure compared to other Asian countries. If as a digital nomad you’ve been looking for options for your next adventures we invite you to read on. And of course, we encourage you to travel with our holaFly eSIM.

Does Singapore have a visa for digital nomads?

Despite being a global leader in innovation and technology, Singapore has not yet implemented a specific visa for digital nomads. This gap may be surprising for those who consider this destination as a strategic hub for remote working, especially considering the rise of this type of visa in other countries in Asia and the rest of the world.

So far, the Singaporean authorities have not announced any concrete plans to develop such a programme. This means that those wishing to work remotely from Singapore will have to resort to other alternatives, such as tourist visas, specific work permits or temporary arrangements that suit their legal needs.

While this may seem like a limitation, Singapore offers a number of resources that can make your temporary stay easier to handle. For example, the country allows visa-free entry for people of many nationalities for 30 or 90 days, depending on the bilateral agreement. During this time, explore options for extending your stay using other existing visas that could partially meet the requirements of those working as digital nomads is allowed.

When will the digital nomad visa in Singapore be launched?

So far, there’s no official word on the launch of a digital nomad visa in Singapore. Although the government has shown interest in attracting international talent, recent efforts have mainly focused on programmes aimed at highly skilled professionals and entrepreneurs, such as EntrePass or Tech.Pass. These options are viable only for those who meet strict requirements in terms of work experience, income or specific skills, making them hardly feasible to most digital nomads.

The EntrePass, for example, is designed for foreign individuals who wish to start an innovative business in Singapore. The Tech.Pass is aimed at technology experts who can demonstrate significant experience in the sector. Although these visas are not specifically intended for those working remotely for foreign companies, they may be an alternative if your professional profile fits into the established categories.

Despite not having a digital nomad visa as such, Singapore continues to position itself as an attractive destination for international professionals due to its global connectivity and focus on the knowledge economy. If you are considering working temporarily from here, it’s important to keep up to date on any official announcements regarding the creation of a visa specifically for digital nomads.

Alternatives for working remotely in Singapore

While we await news on the possible development of a specific visa, there are some alternatives you may wish to consider:

1. Tourist visa in Singapore
   For many nationalities, Singapore offers the possibility to enter the country without a visa, with a maximum stay of 30 or 90 days. Although working remotely under this scheme isn’t officially allowed, some people use it as a temporary solution while they go through other legal options. It’s important to note that this approach should be taken with caution and always in compliance with local regulations.
2. Short-Term Work Pass (Short-Term Work Pass)
   If you plan to collaborate with local companies or participate in specific projects while working in Singapore, you could explore short-term work permits. These permits usually require the sponsorship of a Singapore-registered company and aren’t designed for individuals working remotely for foreign clients or companies, but may suit certain profiles.
3. Visas for specialised professionals
   If you are eligible for visas such as the EntrePass or Tech.Pass, you may want to consider these options. Although not exclusively for digital nomads, they offer a legal way to set up in Singapore if your professional experience and goals align with the allowed categories.
4. Extensions of stay in Singapore
   Once in the country, some people apply for extensions to their tourist visa if they need to stay longer. However, such extensions do not guarantee the right to work and must be arranged well in advance.

Relevant considerations in Singapore

Although Singapore doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads, its advanced infrastructure, connectivity and quality of life make it an attractive destination for those working remotely. However, it’s crucial to comply with local regulations to avoid legal problems during your stay.

In this sense, seeking legal advice or the support of specialised migration agencies such as One Visa can be a good investment to ensure that your stay is safe and compliant with local laws. In addition, keeping updated in migration policies is crucial to take advantage of new opportunities should the country decide to implement a digital nomad programme in the future.

Features of the digital nomad visa in Singapore

Although Singapore doesn’t yet have a visa for digital nomads, the launch of a specific programme could include key benefits for those working remotely. Based on examples of visas in other countries and the particular needs of digital nomads, these could be the main features of a visa designed for Singapore:

1. Duration of your stay

The visa could offer an initial stay of six months to one year, with renewal options depending on the fulfilment of requirements, such as demonstrable economic activity and respect for local laws. This period is ideal for those looking to combine remote work with the experience of living in Singapore.

2. Permit for remote work activities

An essential feature would be the authorization to work remotely for employers or clients abroad. This would allow visa holders to operate legally in Singapore without the need to establish employment links with local companies.

3. Access to local services

Holders of this visa would be able to access essential services such as bank accounts, mobile phone plans and internet. Singapore, known for its advanced technology, is an ideal destination to take advantage of these facilities and stay connected to the rest of the world.

4. Inclusion of dependents

Similar to other visas in the region, this programme could allow digital nomads to travel with family members, including spouses and children. This would make Singapore an attractive destination for individuals as well as families seeking an international experience.

5. Flexibility in the place of residence

Singapore could provide flexible residency options, allowing nomads to stay either in rented properties, long-stay hotels or residences designed for remote professionals.

General requirements for applying for a digital nomad visa for Singapore

Should Singapore decide to launch a visa for digital nomads, it’s likely that specific requirements will be put in place to ensure that applicants meet the country’s standards. Based on similar programmes in other countries, these could be the main requirements:

1. Proof of stable income

Applicants should demonstrate a minimum monthly or annual income to ensure their ability to support themselves financially during their stay. In Singapore, this amount could range between 3,000 and 5,000 Singapore dollars per month, considering the high cost of living in Singapore.

2. Employment link with a foreign company or self-employed activity

Applicants would have to provide evidence of remote employment with a foreign company, or prove that they are self-employed with active contracts and a verifiable source of income.

3. International health insurance

To ensure access to medical care during their stay, medical insurance would be required to cover both emergencies and regular consultations in Singapore.

4. Clean criminal records

As part of the commitment to the security of the country, a criminal record certificate with no negative record would be required.

5. Level of English

Although Singapore is a multicultural country, English is the main language of business and daily life. Therefore, applicants may need to demonstrate an intermediate or advanced level of English, either through official certifications or direct interviews.

6. Purpose of the stay

A written statement may be requested where the applicant explains their reasons for living and working in Singapore, outlining how their remote activity is compatible with Singapore regulations. These requirements would be designed to screen applicants and ensure that visa applicants can integrate smoothly into the local environment.

Documentation to submit for the digital nomad visa in Singapore

To support the application for a digital nomad visa in Singapore, applicants would need to submit a number of key documents. These could include:

1. Completed application form
   Once the programme is designed, the authorities would provide an official form that applicants must complete with personal, professional and financial information.
2. Proof of income
   This could include bank statements for the last six months, payslips or customer contracts proving stable income.
3. Valid passport:
   The applicant’s passport should be valid for at least six months after the intended date of departure from Singapore.
4. Criminal Record Certificate
   Issued by the authorities of the applicant’s country of origin or residence.
5. Medical insurance policy
   A copy of the medical insurance policy detailing international coverage during the stay.
6. Evidence of remote employment or self-employed activity
   Letters from foreign employers, remote work contracts or business registration certificates in the case of self-employed people.
7. Recent photographs
   Complying with visa photo standards, such as white background and specific dimensions.
8. Proof of dependency (if applicable)
   To include family members, marriage certificates, birth certificates or other documents proving the relationship may be required.

Where can I apply for a digital nomad visa for Singapore?

In the event that Singapore launches this visa, it’s likely that the procedures can be carried out in person or online, through the following means:

1. Official government portal

The SingaporeMinistry of Manpowerwebsite is the main channel for managing work permits and visas. It’s likely that a future visa for digital nomads will have its own section on this portal.

2. Embassies and consulates of Singapore

For those who prefer to perform the procedure in person, Singapore embassies and consulates in other countries may offer this service. Applications could be sent from strategic locations such as:

• Singapore High Commission in London.
• Consulate General of Singapore in New York.
• Embassy of Singapore in Berlin.

3. Migration agencies and authorised third parties

Singapore could allow specialised agencies to facilitate the application process, especially for those who need help compiling documents or official translations.

Stay tuned to official channels and consult with migration experts to ensure that you make your application correctly and in accordance with current regulations.

What visa alternatives are there for digital nomads in Singapore?

Although Singapore doesn’t have a specific visa for digital nomads, there are options that allow working remotely under certain criteria. These visas are suitable for those who wish to settle temporarily in the country while carrying out remote work activities. Here we explain the available alternatives:

Tourist visa for Singapore

The tourist visa, although not designed for working remotely, allows visitors to stay in Singapore for a short period of time.

• Length of stay: Between 30 and 90 days, depending on the country of origin.
• Requirements: Valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, departure ticket and, in some cases, a letter of invitation.
• Processing fee: Generally free of charge, but some nationalities have to pay between 30 and 50 Singapore dollars.
• Restrictions: Working remotely on this visa isn’t formally permitted and may lead to sanctions if detected by the authorities.
• How to apply: Online, through the official immigration portal or at Singapore embassies and consulates.

Work Pass for foreigners

Although this permit is aimed at those working for local companies, it could be an option if you manage to enter into a contract with a company in Singapore.

• Duration of stay: 1 to 2 years, renewable.
• Requirements: Employment contract with a Singapore-registered company, minimum income level (generally above S$3,000 per month), and a clean criminal record.
• Processing fee: Approximately S$225.
• How to apply: Directly through your employer, who will arrange the process with the Singapore Ministry of Manpower.

EntrePass in Singapore

Designed for entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals, this visa allows you to establish business in Singapore.

• Length of stay: 1 year, renewable for 2-year periods.
• Requirements: Business proposal approved by local authorities, initial investment of at least S$50,000 and relevant professional experience.
• Price of the procedure: S$105 for the initial application.
• How to apply: Through the official portal of the Ministry of Manpower.

Sanctions for working remotely without a proper visa in Singapore

Singapore has strict regulations on labour activities by foreigners. Working remotely without the appropriate visa can lead to the following penalties:

Expulsion from the country

If the authorities discover that you’re working on a visa that doesn’t allow it, they can order you to leave the country immediately.

• Impact: Ban on entry to Singapore for a period of time, which may vary according to the seriousness of the offence.

Financial penalties

Working remotely without a permit can result in significant fines, especially if you’re deemed to have violated the Alien Employment Act.

• Amounts: Can range from S$5,000 to S$20,000.

Legal process

In serious cases, you could face legal charges, including arrest or trial. This happens if the authorities consider that your activity poses a threat to labour or immigration regulations.

Where can I get tailored advice on the digital nomad visa in Singapore?

Applying for a visa or understanding immigration regulations in Singapore can be complicated, especially for those unfamiliar with the requirements. For this reason, personalised advice is an excellent option.

Featured companies in Singapore

1. One Visa
   • Services: Advice on employment, business and residential visas.
   • Languages: English, Chinese and Malay.
   • Service channels: Online enquiries, email and physical offices in Singapore.
   • Advantages: Specialisation in complex cases and experience in dealing with international professionals.
2. Immigration Solutions Singapore
   • Services: Assistance for Work Pass, EntrePass and family visas.
   • Languages: English and Chinese.
   • Opening hours: From Monday to Friday, from 9:00 to 18:00.
   • Advantages: Quick response and comprehensive support from document collection to application submission.
3. Singapore Immigration Specialist
   • Services: Personalised consultancy for companies and individuals.
   • Languages: English.
   • Communication channels: Face-to-face and virtual meetings.
   • Advantages: Focus on strategic solutions for those wishing to set up in Singapore.

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