Singapore is a major stopover point for international flights, thanks to its great location and the famous Changi Airport. If you're an Indian citizen flying through Singapore, it’s important to understand the visa rules to avoid any travel hiccups. This guide explains what you need to know about the Singapore transit visa.

Suppose travellers plan to explore Singapore but do not meet the transit requirements. In that case, they can easily apply for a Singapore tourist visa through Atlys, a fast, reliable, and hassle-free visa application platform.

What is a transit visa for Singapore?

A transit visa lets you pass through Singapore to another country. Whether you need one depends on your nationality and travel plans. For some people, Singapore offers a Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF), which means they can enter the country for a short time, without a visa, if they meet certain conditions.

Do Indian citizens need a transit visa for Singapore?

No. You might not need one if you only pass through on your way to another country. You can stay in the transit area at Changi airport, or if you qualify for the VFTF, which allows up to 96 hours of visa-free stay in Singapore.

To use the VFTF, you must meet a few specific conditions, such as having a valid visa for your next destination. Remember that even if you meet all the rules, immigration officers at the airport make the final decision.

Changi Airport has three main terminals- Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3, all seamlessly connected by a Skytrain system. Travellers can move between these terminals without clearing immigration, as the Skytrain operates entirely within the transit (airside) area. Therefore, no transit visa is required to transfer between terminals or to use the Skytrain, provided you remain inside the transit zone. 

What are the eligibility criteria of VFTF Singapore?

Indian citizens transiting through Singapore may be eligible for the 96-hour Visa-Free Transit Facility if the following conditions are met:

• The traveller is in transit to or from a third country (not returning directly to India).

• Entry into Singapore may be by any mode of transport, but departure must be by air or sea within 96 hours.

• The traveller must hold a valid visa or long-term pass (valid for at least one month from the date of entry) issued by, or valid for entry into, Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, or the United States.

Please note: Travellers with valid visas or passes from any countries listed above can enter and explore Singapore for up to 96 hours under the VFTF. No additional Singapore visa is required, provided all other VFTF eligibility criteria are met.

• Single Journey Visa (SJV) holders may use VFTF only on the return leg of their journey, directly from the visa-issuing country to India via Singapore, without re-entering India before transiting.

Please note: Entry under VFTF is not guaranteed and is subject to the assessment of Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry. Extension of stay is not permitted under the VFTF.

What if I don’t meet the requirements and have to transit through Singapore? 

If you have a connecting flight and your baggage is checked through, you can remain in the transit area at Changi Airport. In this case, you do not need a visa or VFTF, since you are not entering Singapore.

What is the Singapore transit visa processing time for Indians?

No processing time is involved for travellers eligible under the VFTF, as no prior application is required. Entry is assessed upon arrival. 

What is the Singapore transit visa cost for Indians?

The VFTF is not a visa and does not require any application fee or prior approval, but entry is still subject to approval by Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)

What can you expect when you are in the Singapore transit immigration process?

Indian travellers transiting through Singapore, especially under the Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF), must undergo standard immigration clearance. Below are the key steps and requirements: All travellers must undergo immigration checks at their entry point (airport, seaport, or land checkpoint).

• You may use the automated clearance lanes, especially at Changi Airport, if eligible. Otherwise, proceed to the manual immigration counters.

• During clearance, you must present your biometrics (fingerprints, facial, and/or iris scans). Failure to comply may lead to denial of entry.

Be prepared to present the following during transit immigration checks:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)

• Confirmed onward travel tickets (within 96 hours, if using VFTF)

• Valid visa or long-term pass for the next country, if applicable (especially under VFTF)

• Proof of sufficient funds for your stay in Singapore

Transiting through Singapore offers Indian travellers an opportunity to experience the city's offerings, even if briefly. The Visa-Free Transit Facility simplifies this process, eliminating the need for a formal visa application. By understanding and meeting the eligibility criteria, Indian nationals can ensure a seamless transit experience through Singapore.