Singapore business visas in 2025: key types, requirements and how to apply

Singapore has established itself as one of the world’s leading business hubs, often compared to a “Swiss-style” financial centre in Asia. A stable economy, predictable regulations, strong infrastructure and strategic access to ASEAN and wider Asian markets make it a natural base for entrepreneurs and investors.

Multinational companies and tech firms use Singapore as a regional headquarters, while start-ups benefit from accelerators, venture capital and government-backed innovation schemes. For foreign nationals who want to visit for business, set up a company or invest, several visa options are available.

This overview focuses on three main categories relevant in 2025: the standard entry business visa, the EntrePass for founders, and the Global Investor Programme (GIP).

What is a Singapore business visa?

A business visa is required for citizens of countries that do not enjoy visa-free access to Singapore. It is intended for:

• business meetings and negotiations

• attending conferences, trade fairs and exhibitions

• exploring investment or partnership opportunities

In most cases, it allows a short stay — typically around 30–39 days per visit. Some visas may be issued as multiple-entry and remain valid for up to two years.

Crucially, a business visa does not permit formal employment in Singapore. Anyone planning to work for a Singapore-based employer needs a separate work pass.

Single- and multiple-entry visas

The standard entry visa can be used for both business and tourism. Applicants may be granted:

• a single-entry visa for one specific trip, or

• a multiple-entry visa allowing repeated visits during the validity period

The maximum allowed stay per visit, usually between 30 and 90 days, depends on the applicant’s nationality and the decision of the immigration authorities.

The visa is a pre-entry clearance only. The final decision on admission is taken by immigration officers on arrival.

Required documents for an entry business visa

Typical requirements include:

• Form 14A
  Completed and signed, with details matching the passport exactly.

• Recent photograph
  A colour photo taken within the last three months, on a white background, uploaded in the required digital format (commonly 400×514 pixels).

• Passport copy
  Bio-data page of a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of travel.

• Letter of introduction (where applicable)
  Often provided by a Singapore citizen or permanent resident via Singpass, or by a Singapore-registered company hosting the visitor. In some cases, an embassy may issue a supporting letter.

An application fee of 30 SGD is payable online and is non-refundable. Processing commonly takes around three working days, although some applications may take longer. Applying well in advance of your planned travel is strongly recommended.

Limitations of the entry business visa

With this visa, you cannot:

• take up employment in Singapore

• enrol in long-term full-time study programmes

Separate work or student passes are required for those purposes.

How to apply for an entry business visa

Applications can be submitted in two main ways:

• Online, with the help of a local sponsor (Singapore citizen or permanent resident with a Singpass account)

• Via a Singapore embassy/consulate or an authorised visa agent in your country of residence

EntrePass: for founders of innovative businesses

EntrePass is a dedicated work pass for foreign entrepreneurs who intend to start and run an innovative business in Singapore. It is designed for founders who wish to use Singapore as a launchpad for regional or global expansion.

The assessment focuses on:

• innovation and differentiation of the business model

• scalability and growth potential

• contribution to Singapore’s economy and innovation ecosystem

Conventional small businesses such as cafes, bars or massage parlours typically do not qualify under EntrePass.

Core requirements for EntrePass

The company and founder are usually expected to meet criteria such as:

• a private limited company registered (or to be registered) with ACRA

• a relatively new entity (less than 12 months old)

• the EntrePass holder owning a meaningful stake (often at least 30%)

Additional factors that can support an application include:

• funding from recognised venture capital firms or angel investors

• participation in accredited incubator or accelerator programmes

• a track record of successful start-ups

• patents or other intellectual property

• ongoing research and development collaborations

Documentation for EntrePass

A typical application package may include:

• passport copy

• a detailed business plan (up to about 10 pages)

• CV outlining entrepreneurial and professional experience

• financial and corporate documents (if the company already exists)

• supporting evidence such as IP registrations, term sheets, contracts or letters from partners

Applying for EntrePass

1. Prepare the documents and business plan.

2. Submit the application online to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and pay the 105 SGD fee.

3. If approved, receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter valid for six months.

4. Travel to Singapore and complete the remaining formalities with the immigration authorities.

5. Receive the physical EntrePass card once registration is finalised.

If an application is rejected, MOM normally provides a reasoned letter. In some cases, a fresh application with stronger supporting evidence may be worthwhile.

Global Investor Programme (GIP): a route to permanent residency

The Global Investor Programme (GIP) targets high-net-worth entrepreneurs and investors seeking a pathway to Singapore permanent residency (PR).

Investment options under GIP

Main options include:

• investing at least 10 million SGD in a new or existing business in Singapore

• committing at least 25 million SGD to an approved GIP fund that invests in Singapore-based companies

• establishing a family office with assets of at least 200 million SGD, with a specified portion managed in Singapore

The programme focuses on priority sectors such as technology, manufacturing, energy, logistics, healthcare, security and selected consumer industries.

Who can qualify for GIP?

Eligible profiles include:

• Established business owners with several years of track record and companies generating at least a defined annual turnover (e.g. 200 million SGD) in approved sectors

• Next-generation business owners holding significant equity and senior roles in large family enterprises

• Founders of rapidly growing companies with valuations above a specified threshold (e.g. 500 million SGD)

• Principals of family offices managing substantial global assets

Exact financial thresholds and sector lists are set out in the official GIP guidelines and should always be checked directly on Singapore government websites.

Process and documentation

The process typically involves:

1. Confirming eligibility and preparing detailed financial and corporate documentation.

2. Submitting the application and paying the GIP application fee (10 000 SGD).

3. Undergoing assessment and, where relevant, an interview with the Economic Development Board (EDB).

4. Completing the required investments and providing proof (such as share certificates and bank statements).

5. Receiving final approval and proceeding with PR formalities for the applicant and eligible family members.

Practical tips for business travellers and founders

To make your Singapore plans smoother:

• Start early — especially for EntrePass or GIP, which require more complex evidence.

• Check passport validity — at least six months beyond your travel dates.

• Rely on official sources — visa conditions and thresholds are updated periodically.

• Consider local advisors for company formation, tax and regulatory questions.

• Build in time buffers for visa processing and follow-up questions from the authorities.

Why Singapore remains attractive for business

Beyond visa schemes and tax incentives, Singapore offers:

• political and economic stability

• a safe and clean urban environment

• efficient public transport and easy access to the airport

• an international school system and cosmopolitan lifestyle

For entrepreneurs and investors, the combination of clear rules, strong institutions and regional connectivity makes Singapore a compelling base for long-term business plans.