The Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is a vital solution for foreign nationals seeking to stay in Singapore for extended periods due to family or personal connections with Singaporean citizens, permanent residents (PRs), or Employment Pass holders. The LTVP allows for more extended visits, surpassing the standard short-term visas, and provides essential benefits to apply long term visit pass families and loved ones.
This comprehensive guide will help you understand the requirements, eligibility, and benefits of the LTVP. You’ll also learn the steps for applying for this pass and how to ensure your application process goes smoothly.
1. What is the Long Term Visit Pass?
The Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is a visa issued by Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) that allows foreigners to stay in Singapore for longer periods due to familial ties with citizens, PRs, or Employment Pass holders.
Key Benefits of the LTVP:
- Extended stay duration: Typically issued for 1 to 2 years, the LTVP allows family members to stay longer than on a short-term visit visa.
- Renewability: The pass is renewable, ensuring that families can continue living together in Singapore for several years.
- Work opportunities: Spouses of Singaporean citizens or PRs who hold an LTVP+ may apply for a Letter of Consent, allowing them to work in Singapore without needing an additional work visa.
2. Eligibility Requirements for the LTVP
Eligibility for the Long Term Visit Pass depends primarily on the applicant’s relationship with the sponsor, whether the sponsor is a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or Employment Pass holder.
Who Can Apply for an LTVP?
- Spouse of a Singapore citizen or PR: Foreign spouses of Singapore citizens or permanent residents are among the most common applicants for the LTVP.
- Foreign parents of Singapore citizens or PRs: Parents of adult Singaporeans can apply to stay in Singapore on a long-term basis through the LTVP.
- Foreign children of Singapore citizens or PRs: Children, including adopted or stepchildren, are eligible to apply.
- Common-law spouse of an Employment Pass holder: MOM provides LTVPs for common-law spouses of Employment Pass holders.
- Stepchildren or parents of Employment Pass holders: Employment Pass holders may sponsor the application for their foreign stepchildren or parents.
LTVP+ Option
Spouses of Singaporean citizens may be eligible for the LTVP+, a variant of the Long Term Visit Pass, which provides additional benefits like a longer stay period (up to 5 years) and eligibility for healthcare subsidies.
3. Document Requirements for the Long Term Visit Pass
Gathering and submitting the correct documents is essential for a successful LTVP application. Both the applicant and sponsor need to provide specific documents.
For the Applicant:
- Valid passport: A passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
- Passport-sized photo: A recent, ICA-compliant photograph.
- Marriage certificate: For spouses, a legal marriage certificate must be submitted.
- Birth certificate: For children or parents, proof of familial connection through birth certificates is mandatory.
- Medical report: A medical report may be required for some applicants, especially those staying for extended periods.
For the Sponsor:
- NRIC or Employment Pass copy: Proof of the sponsor’s citizenship, PR status, or Employment Pass.
- Income tax returns or salary slips: The sponsor must show financial stability and the ability to support the applicant.
- CPF contribution statements: For Singapore citizens and PRs, proof of financial security through CPF contributions is necessary.
Additional Documents:
- Divorce or custody documents: If applying for stepchildren or in situations of previous marriages, legal documents must be provided.
- Translation of non-English documents: Any documents not in English must be translated by an official translator before submission.
4. Steps to Apply for a Long Term Visit Pass
The process of applying for an LTVP can be done online through the ICA (for Singapore citizens and PRs) or MOM (for Employment Pass holders). Here’s a breakdown of the application steps.
Applying through ICA (for Singapore Citizens and PRs):
- Login via SingPass: The sponsor must log in to the ICA’s online portal using their SingPass.
- Complete the application form: Enter the necessary information about the applicant, sponsor, and their relationship.
- Upload documents: Attach all required documents, ensuring that they are clear and meet ICA’s guidelines.
- Pay the application fee: The fee for the application is S$30.
- Track the application: Once submitted, use the reference number provided to monitor the status of the application online.
Applying through MOM (for Employment Pass Holders):
- EP Online login: The sponsor, or their employer, should log in to the MOM’s EP Online portal.
- Submit the application: Provide the applicant’s details and required documents.
- Pay the application fee: The standard fee applies.
- Monitor progress: Keep track of the application’s status through EP Online.
Processing Time:
- Standard processing time: The LTVP application usually takes between 4 to 6 weeks.
- Additional information: In some cases, ICA or MOM may request more documents, which can extend the processing time.
5. Benefits of Holding a Long Term Visit Pass
The LTVP offers several advantages to families seeking to remain together in Singapore for extended periods.
Key Benefits:
- Prolonged stay: LTVP holders are allowed to stay in Singapore for a significantly longer period than standard tourist or visit visas.
- Work rights for spouses: Spouses on LTVP+ can work in Singapore with a Letter of Consent, simplifying employment eligibility.
- Access to healthcare subsidies: LTVP+ holders who are married to Singapore citizens can access healthcare subsidies, making healthcare more affordable.
- Educational opportunities: Children on an LTVP can also attend local or international schools in Singapore.
6. Common Challenges in Applying for the LTVP
While the LTVP process is generally straightforward, applicants may face certain challenges.
Potential Issues:
- Incomplete documentation: Missing or unclear documents can delay the process. Ensure that all required paperwork is submitted in full.
- Income requirements: Sponsors must demonstrate financial ability to support the applicant, and not meeting these criteria could result in rejection.
- Medical requirements: If a medical examination is required, it should be completed promptly and meet all necessary health standards.
7. Renewal Process for the Long Term Visit Pass
LTVPs are renewable, and it’s important to start the renewal process early to avoid any disruption in your stay.
Steps for Renewal:
- Start early: Begin the renewal process at least 2 to 3 months before the pass expires.
- Update documents: Provide updated financial records, proof of relationship, and other relevant documents.
- Submit online: Renewals are processed online, following the same steps as the initial application.
8. Appeals and Rejections
In cases where the LTVP application is rejected, applicants have the right to appeal. The appeal should include additional supporting documents and clarification as to why the applicant believes the rejection was unfounded.
Appeal Tips:
- Address the reasons for rejection: Ensure the appeal directly addresses the issues raised in the rejection notice.
- Provide additional evidence: Include further documentation, such as improved financial information or proof of family ties.
Conclusion
The Long Term Visit Pass is a valuable option for families and loved ones seeking to stay together in Singapore for extended periods. By understanding the requirements, ensuring all documents are in order, and following the correct application process, you can increase your chances of a smooth and successful LTVP application.
Whether you’re applying as a spouse, parent, child, or other eligible family member, the LTVP provides a pathway to living in Singapore with ease, access to healthcare, and, in many cases, employment opportunities. Ensure that your application is complete, start the process early, and enjoy the benefits of staying in Singapore with your loved ones.
