How to apply for Singapore eVisa from Pakistan?
If you are planning a visit to Singapore, often referred to as one of the Asian tigers in Southeast Asia, you will need to apply for a visa. Singapore has discontinued sticker visas and now only issues e-Visas. Getting a visa for Singapore is a bit trickier compared to getting one for Thailand or Malaysia in Pakistan. If you’re planning to visit Singapore with a Pakistani passport, take a look at this step-by-step guide.
How do I apply for a Singapore eVisa from Pakistan?
Firstly, let me clarify any confusion regarding the visa processing procedure. The Honorary Consulate of Singapore in Karachi just only collects visa applications and does not directly issue the visa. The visa processing is undertaken by Singapore immigration Authority.
Based on recent trends, typically when a visa is approved, it usually takes 3 to 4 days. However, if your case is taking an extended time, such as 10 to 20 days, it usually implies that the visa might be declined. In very rare instances, visas have been approved after a prolonged processing period, as Singapore immigration conducts thorough background checks on applicants.
This information is based on the latest trends in the Singapore visa application process in Pakistan. One positive aspect of the Singapore eVisa procedure is that it does not require submission of travel history and bank statements. The decision is primarily based on a Letter of Introduction (LOI) and a scanned copy of your passport.
In certain instances, when both spouses apply for a visa, there have been cases where the wife’s visa is refused while the husband’s visa is granted.
Process & Procedure:
There are two ways to apply for a Singapore visa from Pakistan: you can either visit the honorary consulate general in Karachi in person, or you can go through a contact in Singapore, such as a friend or relative. Your Singapore contact should arrange a Letter of Introduction (LOI), which serves as an invitation letter, detailing their information and inviting you to Singapore.
In addition to the LOI, you’ll need a photograph, a completed visa application form and a photocopy of your passport’s biodata page and a photocopy of your CNIC. This information is available on the official website of Singapore Immigration. The Singapore visa fee is PKR. 10,000 if you apply by yourself with a LOI. If you choose to apply through a travel agency, they may charge a different fee as they will arrange the LOI for you.
Address of Singapore Consulate in Karachi:
Lakson Square Building No 2
Sarwar Shaheed Road Karachi, Pakistan
Telephone: (+92) 21 3568 8243 / (+92) 21 3568 5308
Fax: (+92) 21 3568 8067, (+92) 21 3568 0093
Email: singaporecg@cyber.net.pk
Singapore Immigration Website
After applying for a Singapore visa in Karachi, you will need to wait for the outcome. In the majority of cases, a decision is reached within 3 working days. However, in some cases, the process may take a considerable amount of time.
Key Tips for Obtaining a Singapore eVisa in Pakistan​
It is advised to specify a duration in your application. Singapore, being a small country, can be comfortably explored within 3 to 4 days. However, it is recommend mentioning 5 to 7 days in your visa application. If you indicate 10 days, it may not be logical and there’s a high chance of your visa being declined.
The second consideration is attempting to obtain a Letter of Introduction (LOI) from a friend or relative in Singapore. If you don’t have any connections in Singapore, try securing it through a travel agency. Both the LOI and visa will cost you approximately Rs. 10,000 to 15,000. The success rate for Singapore eVisa is 50/50, so be prepared for the possibility of losing 10k to 20k PKR, if your visa is declined.
FAQs
- Â How much money is required for a Singapore visa?
As mentioned earlier, the total cost for a Singapore eVisa is around Rs. 15,000 due to the current high USD to PKR exchange rate. While the actual fee for a Singapore visa is lower, travel agents may charge varying amounts for arranging the Letter of Introduction (LOI).
- Â Can a Pakistani travel to Singapore?
Absolutely. Pakistani citizens can easily travel to Singapore with a valid visit visa. Singapore, situated in Southeast Asia near Malaysia is one of the best destinations for Pakistani passport holders. - How much does it cost to go to Singapore from Pakistan?
Singapore is an expensive country as it is a very developed nation. Therefore, the cost of visiting Singapore for tourism can be significant, with a minimum expected expense of $100 USD per day. - Is the Singapore visa open for Pakistanis?
Yes, the Singapore visa is currently open for Pakistanis and COVID-19 restrictions have been relaxed since April 1, 2022. - Can I visit Singapore on a budget?
While challenging, it is still possible. In areas like Little India, you can find hostels for around $20 per night and Dhaba restaurants offer meals for approximately $10. Thus, it is feasible to explore Singapore on a budget of $50 per day. - What language do they speak in Singapore?
Singaporeans speak a variety of languages. The main ones include Mandarin Chinese, Malay and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken and understood by almost everyone in Singapore. The people in Singapore live peacefully and respectfully. - Is it easy to get a Singapore visa in Pakistan?
The chances of obtaining a Singapore visa in Pakistan are 50/50, even with a Letter of Introduction. This assessment is based on the latest trends.
