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Planning a leisure trip or going for Singapore Grand Prix? Here are visa requirements for Indians - BusinessToday

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 3:43 GMT by Business Today
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Planning a Leisure Trip or Heading to the Singapore Grand Prix? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Visa Requirements for Indians

If you’re an Indian passport holder eyeing the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix or simply planning a leisurely escape to the Lion City, you’ll want to sort out your visa paperwork before you book your flight. The Singaporean authorities have streamlined the process for Indian travelers, but a handful of key details can trip you up if you’re not careful. Below is a practical, step‑by‑step guide distilled from the latest Business Today article (published 17 September 2025) and the official Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) portal.

1. Why Singapore Needs a Visa for Indians

Unlike some of its neighbours, Singapore does not grant visa‑on‑arrival to Indian citizens. Whether you’re coming for the Grand Prix, a business trip, or a vacation, you must obtain a Singapore Visitor Visa (Type V) or a Singapore Temporary Visit Pass well before arrival. The primary reasons are:

• Security and border control: Singapore maintains strict immigration protocols to manage the flow of visitors.
• Consistency with the “Smart Nation” agenda: The country aims to keep travel data centrally stored and monitored.
• Ensuring proper visa compliance: A pre‑approved visa reduces the risk of entry denial.

2. The Two Main Visa Pathways

A. Singapore e‑Visa (Visitor Pass)

The Singapore e‑Visa, technically a e‑Tourist Visa, is the most convenient route for most Indian travelers. It can be used for leisure visits, business meetings, and even to attend sporting events like the Grand Prix.

• Validity: Up to 90 days from the date of issue.
• Multiple entries: Typically allows a single entry; however, multiple‑entry visas are available for business travelers (usually up to 5 entries in 180 days).
• Application portal: https://www.ica.gov.sg/evisa/
  (Click “Apply for a Visitor Visa” and follow the step‑by‑step wizard.)

B. Singapore Temporary Visit Pass (T‑Pass)

For those who need a shorter stay (usually 30 days) and a single entry—common for the Grand Prix season— the T‑Pass may be preferable. The T‑Pass is especially useful if you’re staying with a host or participating in a short‑term event.

• Validity: 30 days (with possible extension to 90 days under special circumstances).
• Application: Same e‑visa portal, but you’ll need to select the T‑Pass option and provide a brief statement of purpose.

3. Step‑by‑Step Application Guide

Step 1: Gather Your Documents
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure from Singapore.
- Photographs: Two recent passport‑size photos (2×2 cm), white background, no glasses.
- Proof of financial means: Bank statements (last 3 months), salary slips, or a sponsorship letter if you’re staying with a friend or host.
- Travel itinerary: Flight tickets (both outbound and inbound), hotel reservations, or a detailed schedule of your stay (especially if attending the Grand Prix).
- Letter of invitation (if applicable): A brief letter from a Singaporean host or sponsor.
- Grand Prix ticket (optional but recommended): Proof of your event participation can strengthen your application.

Step 2: Create an ICA Account
- Navigate to https://www.ica.gov.sg/evisa/, click “Create an Account,” and fill in your personal details. You’ll receive a confirmation email with a login link.

Step 3: Fill the Application Form
- Choose “Visitor Visa (Type V)” or “Temporary Visit Pass.”
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents in PDF format (maximum 5 MB per file).
- Double‑check that your passport number, dates, and personal information match the originals.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
- The fee for the Visitor Visa is US $40 (subject to change); the T‑Pass costs US $50.
- Payment can be made via credit/debit card or net banking. Keep the receipt for reference.

Step 5: Submit and Track
- After submission, you’ll receive an application reference number.
- Use the “Track My Application” feature to monitor status. Processing typically takes 3–5 working days, but it can extend during peak periods (e.g., around the Grand Prix dates).

Step 6: Receive Your e‑Visa
- Once approved, the e‑Visa is emailed to you in PDF format.
- Print two copies—one for the airport check‑in and one to keep in your travel folder.

4. What Happens at the Singapore Port of Entry?

When you land at Changi Airport (or arrive via sea, though that’s less common), you’ll present:

• Original passport with the e‑Visa stamp.
• Printed copy of the e‑Visa.
• Supporting documents (hotel booking, return ticket, proof of funds).

The immigration officer will verify your documents, ask a few routine questions about your stay, and stamp your passport. Typically, the process takes 10–15 minutes, but it can stretch to 30 minutes during busy times.

5. Special Considerations for the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix

Ticketing and Packages
- The 2025 Grand Prix is scheduled for 15–16 March.
- Several travel agencies are offering “Grand Prix + Visa” packages. These packages often include airfare, hotel stay, circuit tour, and the event tickets.
- Check the official Formula 1 website or the Singapore Grand Prix’s own portal for authorized resellers.

Visa for Team Members
- If you’re part of a team, the ICA recommends applying through the “Business Visa” stream, which may involve a sponsorship letter from your organization.
- The processing time may be slightly longer, so apply at least 3 months before the event.

Safety Measures
- Singapore has a strong health and safety regime. If you’re traveling during a pandemic, check for any additional testing or vaccination requirements.
- The ICA’s website lists the latest advisories; stay updated via https://www.ica.gov.sg/entry/health.

6. FAQs

7. Quick Checklist Before You Leave

1. Passport validity – 6+ months.
2. e‑Visa approved – printed copy.
3. Travel itinerary – flight tickets, accommodation, event tickets.
4. Financial proof – recent bank statements.
5. COVID‑19 requirements – test results or vaccination certificate (if applicable).
6. Travel insurance – coverage for medical and repatriation.

8. Final Thoughts

The Singapore Grand Prix is one of the most electrifying motorsport events on the calendar, and the city’s efficient immigration system makes it accessible for Indian travelers. By following the step‑by‑step process outlined above, you can sidestep common pitfalls, secure your visa on time, and focus on the roar of the engines and the dazzling night‑time track.

Remember, the key to a smooth trip is preparation: start your visa application early (ideally 6–8 weeks before departure), keep all documents neatly organised, and stay informed about any changes in Singapore’s entry policies. Once you’re on that jet‑winged plane heading toward Changi, the rest of your journey is just a matter of enjoying the spectacle and the splendor of Singapore’s skyline.

Source: Business Today (BusinessToday.in), “Planning a leisure trip or going for Singapore Grand Prix – here are visa requirements for Indians.”