apply long term visit pass

Apply for a Long Term Visit Pass: Eligibility, Documents, and Process

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A Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) in Singapore is an excellent option for foreigners who want to stay with their family members or loved ones for an extended period. Whether you are a spouse, parent, or child of a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident (PR), or you are accompanying an Employment Pass holder, the LTVP allows you to remain in Singapore beyond the typical short-term visit duration. In this article, we will guide you through the key aspects of applying for a Long Term Visit Pass, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application process for apply long term visit pass.

1. Understanding the Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

The Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is issued by Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for foreigners who have close family ties to Singapore citizens, PRs, or Employment Pass holders. It allows them to live in Singapore for an extended period, typically longer than the 30-90 days granted under a short-term visit pass.

Key Benefits of the LTVP:

  • Extended stay: Allows eligible family members or dependents to stay in Singapore for an extended period, typically one to two years.
  • Ease of renewal: The LTVP can be renewed if the conditions are met, making it easier for families to remain together.
  • Eligibility for LTVP+: Spouses of Singaporeans or PRs may eventually qualify for the LTVP+, which provides longer-term stay and enhanced benefits like healthcare subsidies.

2. Eligibility Criteria for the Long Term Visit Pass

Before applying for the LTVP, it’s important to understand if you or your family member qualifies for the pass. The eligibility for the LTVP depends on the relationship to a Singapore citizen, PR, or Employment Pass holder.

Commonly Eligible Categories:

  • Spouses of Singapore citizens or PRs: Foreign spouses of citizens or PRs can apply for the LTVP, making it one of the most common categories.
  • Parents of Singapore citizens or PRs: Foreign parents who wish to stay with their adult children who are Singaporeans or PRs can apply for the LTVP.
  • Children of Singapore citizens or PRs: Children, particularly foreign-born children or stepchildren, of citizens or PRs are also eligible.
  • Common-law spouses of Employment Pass holders: Foreign common-law spouses of professionals working in Singapore under the Employment Pass may also qualify for the LTVP through the Ministry of Manpower.
  • Stepchildren of Employment Pass holders: Stepchildren under 21 may qualify to accompany their parents on a Long Term Visit Pass.

Ensure that your relationship to the sponsor (spouse, parent, or child) is clearly documented to meet the eligibility criteria.

3. Required Documents for the Long Term Visit Pass Application

Applying for a Long Term Visit Pass requires submitting various documents to prove your relationship to the sponsor and to show that both the applicant and sponsor meet the necessary conditions.

Required Documents for the Applicant:

  • Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity at the time of application.
  • Passport-sized photo: A recent photograph that meets the ICA or MOM specifications.
  • Marriage certificate: For spouses of citizens, PRs, or Employment Pass holders.
  • Birth certificate: For children or parents of the Singapore citizen, PR, or pass holder.
  • Medical reports: Certain applicants may be required to provide a medical examination report.
  • Proof of no criminal record: This may be requested to demonstrate good character, especially if you come from certain regions.

Required Documents for the Sponsor:

  • NRIC or Employment Pass copy: A clear copy of the sponsor’s NRIC (if a citizen or PR) or Employment Pass.
  • Proof of income: Recent income tax returns or salary slips to prove that the sponsor can support the applicant during their stay.
  • CPF contributions: If applicable, the sponsor’s Central Provident Fund (CPF) contribution statement as proof of financial stability.
  • Marriage or birth certificates: To prove the family relationship between the applicant and sponsor.

Additional Documentation:

  • Divorce or custody papers: For cases involving stepchildren or complex family structures, additional documentation might be required.
  • Character declarations: Depending on the applicant’s country of origin, certain declarations may be requested to show that the individual is of good standing.

Ensure that all documents are translated into English and are clear, as incomplete or inaccurate documentation can delay or even reject the application.

4. Step-by-Step Application Process for the Long Term Visit Pass

The application process for the LTVP is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Depending on the type of sponsor (citizen, PR, or Employment Pass holder), the application can be submitted through either the ICA e-Service or the MOM EP Online system.

Steps to Apply for the LTVP (via ICA for Citizens/PRs):

  1. Log in using SingPass: The sponsor, who is a Singaporean citizen or PR, should log in to the ICA portal using their SingPass credentials.
  2. Complete the application form: Fill in the necessary details about the applicant and the sponsor. Ensure that all information is accurate, including passport details, personal information, and relationship status.
  3. Upload the required documents: Scan and upload all the necessary documents (e.g., passports, certificates, income statements). Be sure that the documents are clearly legible.
  4. Pay the application fee: A non-refundable processing fee of S$30 is usually required to submit the application.
  5. Submit the application: After completing the form and uploading documents, submit the application online. Make sure to keep the reference number for future tracking.

Steps to Apply for the LTVP (via MOM for Employment Pass Holders):

  1. Log in using EP Online: The Employment Pass holder’s company or sponsor should access the MOM’s EP Online system.
  2. Complete the online form: Provide the necessary details about the Employment Pass holder, the applicant, and their relationship.
  3. Submit supporting documents: Upload the required documents as proof of relationship and financial stability.
  4. Make payment: There is an application fee that must be paid online through the system.
  5. Monitor the application status: Keep an eye on the status of the application and any additional document requests from MOM.

The processing time typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks but can take longer if additional documentation or clarification is needed.

5. Processing Time and Approval

Once submitted, the application will go through a review process. During this period, it’s essential to monitor the status of the application regularly. If ICA or MOM requires additional documents or clarifications, they will notify the sponsor or applicant. Responding quickly to these requests can speed up the approval process.

Once approved, the applicant will be notified and may be asked to visit the ICA office to complete the formalities, such as presenting original documents or undergoing biometric registration.

Possible Reasons for Delays:

  • Incomplete documentation: Missing or incorrect documents are common reasons for delays. Ensure everything is complete when submitting the application.
  • Verification of relationship: In some cases, ICA or MOM may take additional time to verify the relationship between the applicant and sponsor.

Issuance of Pass:

After approval, the LTVP is typically issued for 1 to 2 years, depending on the sponsor’s status and the applicant’s circumstances. It is renewable as long as the conditions remain the same.

6. Renewal and Appeal Process

If you want to extend the LTVP, it’s essential to apply for renewal before the current pass expires. Renewal typically follows the same process as the initial application, but it’s important to provide updated financial information and ensure that eligibility conditions are still met.

Renewal Tips:

  • Apply early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start the renewal process. It’s best to begin the renewal application 2 to 3 months before the expiration date.
  • Update financial documents: Provide recent income tax statements, salary slips, or CPF contributions to show financial stability.
  • Report changes in relationship status: If there’s a significant change in your relationship status (e.g., divorce), this could affect your eligibility for renewal.

If your LTVP application is rejected, you have the option to appeal the decision. During the appeal process, it’s essential to provide any additional documents or clarification required by ICA or MOM.

Conclusion

Applying for a Long Term Visit Pass in Singapore requires careful preparation, attention to detail, and proper documentation. By understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the necessary documents, and following the correct application steps, you can successfully apply for and receive the LTVP, allowing you to stay in Singapore for an extended period with your family. Whether you’re a spouse, parent, or child of a Singaporean or PR, or accompanying an Employment Pass holder, the LTVP provides flexibility and peace of mind for long-term living in Singapore.

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