Singapore Digital Nomad Visa


Singapore is a melting pot of culture, people, and opportunities, and it is fast becoming one of the world’s top travel destinations. There’s no denying that this country is also popular among digital nomads and expats. 

Everything from Singapore airport to Singapore food and widespread public transport systems is truly impeccable in Singapore. Singapore boasts one of the world’s highest standards of living and one of the world’s fastest internet speeds. Most digital nomads claim that Singapore is a perfect country in every way.

Is there Singapore Digital Nomad Visa?

As of writing this, Singapore does not have an official digital nomad visa. This means as a digital nomad, you must apply for a tourist visa in order to stay for up to 30 days or opt for other visa alternatives for a longer stay. 

You must apply for a work visa if you want to stay longer than 30 days. Singapore has this special Work Holiday Pass under Work Holiday Programme for eligible young graduates and students aged 18 to 25, allowing them to work and holiday in Singapore for 6 months. 

What are the visa alternatives for digital nomads?

Citizens of most countries do not have to undergo visa procedures and can enter Singapore without a visa. Both visa-free travelers and visa holders must apply for a valid SG Arrival Card, an electronic landing card that works as a Travel Health Declaration. 

Do digital nomads need a visa to work remotely in Singapore? The answer is yes. The Singapore work visa is a temporary permit for foreigners to work in Singapore and comes with 3 months to 2 years of validity. 

Please keep in mind that the authority issues a work permit or pass in lieu of a work visa. The government of Singapore classified the countries whose citizens require a visa to enter Singapore into two groups:

  1. Assessment level I countries: Nationals of assessment level I countries can apply for a Singaporean eVisa.
  2. Assessment Level II countries: Nationals of assessment level II countries must apply for a paper tourist visa.

What are the requirements of a Singapore Work Visa?

Foreigners willing to work in Singapore must meet the following requirements to obtain a work visa:

  • The applicant must have a valid passport or related travel documents.
  • The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
  • The applicant must purchase international health insurance.
  • The applicant must adhere to the work ethics and work within the scope of work mentioned in the work permits.
  • The applicant cannot conduct any business activities, let alone start a new business in Singapore.
  • The applicant cannot marry a Singaporean citizen without the approval of the Ministry of Manpower.
  • The applicant is not allowed to shift to another location, except for the address set by the employer.

Type of Singapore Work Visa

 Citizens from foreign countries willing to work in Singapore must obtain a valid pass (frequently called a work visa). The applicant must assess the visa circumstance and prepare and apply accordingly. 

For instance, an employment pass is best suited for a professional earning at least $5000 a month. The Singapore authorities offer different work passes and permits to foreigners willing to work there. Below are the types of Singapore work visas:

  1. Personalized Employment Pass
  2. S Pass
  3. Employment Pass
  4. Work Permit (Foreign Domestic Worker)
  5. Work Permit (Foreign Worker)
  6. Entre Pass
  7. Training Employment Pass
  8. Work Holiday Pass (Under Work and Holiday Visa Programme)
  9. Work Permit (Performing Artiste)
  10. Training Work Permit
  11. Work Holiday Pass (Under Work Holiday Programme)
  12. Work Permit (Confinement Nanny)
  13. Pre-approved Letter of Consent
  14. Work Passes (Holders of Long-Term Visit Passes issued by ICA)
  15. Miscellaneous Work Pass
  16. Long-Term Visit Pass
  17. Letter of Consent
  18. Dependent’s Pass