Singapore Tourist Visa as a Foreign Resident in South Korea

Singapore, often referred to as the “Lion City,” is a global hub renowned for its breathtaking skyline, cultural diversity, and world-class attractions. This vibrant city-state offers visa-free travel to numerous countries, making it a popular destination for tourists. However, many travelers from specific nations still require a visa to visit Singapore.

Singapore categorizes countries into Assessment Level I and Assessment Level II, determining visa requirements. For instance, nationals from countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Iran must obtain a visa to enter Singapore. The process can vary significantly depending on where you apply from, and this guide will explore how foreign residents in South Korea can navigate the application process.

Note: Visa rules often change, so before applying for a visa by following this guide, it is advisable to contact the relevant embassy or consulate office for the most up-to-date information.

Visa Requirements: Who Needs a Visa for Singapore?

While many nationalities enjoy visa-free access to Singapore, others must secure a visa in advance. The Assessment Level I countries (e.g., India, Russia, and Ukraine) typically experience a simpler visa process. In contrast, Assessment Level II countries (e.g., Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Iran) face more stringent requirements, such as the mandatory invitation letter.

For residents in South Korea, the need for a visa depends on their nationality. South Korean citizens and nationals of visa-exempt countries can travel to Singapore without a visa. However, if you hold a passport from a visa-required country, such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, or Iran, you must secure a tourist visa to visit Singapore. Importantly, the primary document for obtaining this visa is an invitation letter from a local contact in Singapore, which is mandatory regardless of where you apply from.

Applying for a Singapore Tourist Visa in South Korea

Eligibility and Key Requirements

If you are a foreign national living in South Korea and require a visa to visit Singapore, you must meet specific conditions. The most critical document is an invitation letter from a local Singaporean contact, typically a citizen or permanent resident of Singapore. Without this letter, it is not possible to apply for a Singapore tourist visa in South Korea or elsewhere.

Importance of the Invitation Letter

The invitation letter serves as proof of your ties to Singapore and is non-negotiable for visa-required applicants. If you cannot provide this letter, you cannot apply for a visa in South Korea. In such cases, you must return to your home country to process your application through an authorized visa agency, which can obtain the invitation letter on your behalf.

How to Obtain a Singapore Tourist Visa in South Korea

Gather Required Documents

• Invitation Letter: A letter from a local contact in Singapore (citizen or permanent resident) is mandatory.
• Passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity.
• Passport-Sized Photograph: One recent color photograph meeting ICA specifications.
• Bank Statement: A three-month statement showing a balance of at least 1,000,000 KRW.
• Employment Certificate: Proof of employment in South Korea.
• Flight and Hotel Bookings: Booking copies are acceptable.

Submit Your Application

If you have managed to obtain an invitation letter, submit your application along with the supporting documents to the Singapore Embassy in Seoul.

Processing Time

Visa processing typically takes about 10 business days. Ensure you apply well in advance of your planned travel.

Singapore Tourist Visa Fee

The official visa fee in Singapore varies based on the location and agency. Contact the Singapore Embassy in Seoul for the latest details.

Singapore Embassy in Seoul

• Address: 16th Floor, Kyobo Building, 1 Jongno 1-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03154, Korea.
• Email: sinemb_seo@mfa.sg
• Phone: +82-2-775-0481
• How to Go: Located near Gwanghwamun Station (Line 5), Exit 3.

Obtaining an Invitation Letter (Form V39A)

Obtaining an Invitation Letter, officially known as a Letter of Introduction for Visa Application (Form V39A), is a crucial step for nationals from certain countries seeking to apply for a Singapore tourist visa. This letter must be completed by a local contact in Singapore who is either a Singapore Citizen or a Permanent Resident.

Steps to Obtain the Invitation Letter:

1. Identify a Local Contact:
   • Your local contact must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident aged 21 years and above.
   • They should be acquainted with you and aware of your visit’s purpose.
2. Download Form V39A:
   • Access the official Form V39A from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
3. Mandatory Requirement:
   • The invitation letter is essential for visa applications from nationals of certain countries. Without it, your application may be rejected.
4. Authenticity:
   • Ensure that the information provided is accurate and truthful. False information can lead to visa denial and future entry bans.

Challenges and Solutions for Invitation Letters

Obtaining an invitation letter is often the trickiest part of the Singapore tourist visa application. The letter must come from a Singaporean citizen or permanent resident. If you have friends or family in Singapore, they can provide this letter easily. Otherwise, it becomes a significant hurdle.

What If You Can’t Get an Invitation Letter in South Korea?

If you’re unable to secure an invitation letter while in South Korea, the solution is to apply for your visa from your home country. Many countries, including Bangladesh, have authorized visa agencies approved by the Singapore Embassy that can assist with the entire process, including obtaining the invitation letter.

My Personal Experience Applying for a Singapore Tourist Visa

As a Bangladeshi national living in South Korea, I faced challenges applying for a Singapore tourist visa due to the invitation letter requirement. Despite having traveled to many countries, I couldn’t visit Singapore until I applied through an authorized visa agency in Bangladesh during a trip home in 2022.

Preparation Before Traveling to Bangladesh

I gathered all the required documents while still in South Korea:

• Passport and Recent Photo: Ready for submission.
• Bank Statement: Showing sufficient funds.
• Employment Certificate: From my Korean employer.
• Travel Bookings: Arranged by the agency after I paid the visa fee.

Application in Bangladesh

I submitted my documents to an authorized visa agency. They arranged the invitation letter and processed the application on my behalf. The process took 10 days, and the total cost, including their service fee, was 6,000 Bangladeshi Taka.

Key Takeaway

Although I applied in Bangladesh, all my supporting documents were from South Korea. This was acceptable as the visa agency handled the application professionally. The process was smooth, and I recommend it for anyone facing similar challenges.

The bset an cheapest accommodation is Singapore

• Royal Lodge @ Pagoda Street – Starting from 11usd per night.
• BEAT. Arts Hostel @ Chinatown – Starting from 14usd per night.
• D’Nova Hotel @ Kallang – Starting from 18usd per night.
• 7 Wonders Hostel – Starting from 20usd per night.
• Beary Best! Chinatown – Starting from 20usd per night.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Work with Authorized Agencies: Always choose an authorized visa agency to avoid unnecessary delays or issues.
• Plan Ahead: Start gathering your documents and planning your trip early, especially if you need to apply through your home country.
• Verify Details with the Embassy: Contact the Singapore Embassy in Seoul or in your home country for the latest rules and requirements.

Note on Other Visa Agencies in South Korea

There are many visa agencies in South Korea claiming to process Singapore tourist visas. While some may have legitimate channels, others might send your passport to your home country to process it through an authorized agency. Ensure you verify their methods and legitimacy before proceeding.

Note: Countries whose citizens do not need a visa to enter Singapore as tourists do not have any authorized visa agency approved by the Singapore Embassy. This is because their nationals are exempt from the visa application process. For such travelers, no visa-related intermediaries or agencies are necessary.

Final Thoughts

Applying for a Singapore tourist visa as a foreign resident in South Korea can be challenging, especially due to the mandatory invitation letter requirement. If you can secure the letter through friends or family in Singapore, the process becomes much easier. However, if this isn’t possible, applying through your home country is the most viable solution. With proper preparation and assistance from authorized agencies, you can navigate the process and enjoy your trip to Singapore without unnecessary stress.