Close your eyes and picture this: glittering skyscrapers that look like they’ve leapt out of a sci-fi movie, a bustling hawker center with the irresistible aroma of laksa and satay, and the warm tropical air carrying the sounds of different languages blending together. Welcome to Singapore, a place where tradition and modernity walk hand in hand.
For Indian travelers, Singapore isn’t just a holiday destination—it’s a quick escape, a shopping spree, a foodie pilgrimage, and a cultural mix that feels both exciting and welcoming. But before you can soak in the Gardens by the Bay lights or snap selfies on Sentosa Island, there’s one crucial step: your Singapore visa.
Let’s unpack everything you need to know—not with a boring checklist, but with stories, tips, and travel inspiration to help you dream big and plan smart.
Why Singapore Steals the Hearts of Indian Travelers
Ask any Indian traveler why Singapore is on their bucket list, and you’ll hear different answers:
- Proximity and Convenience: Just a short 5-hour flight from major Indian cities. Perfect for long weekends or extended getaways.
- Foodie Heaven: From Michelin-starred stalls to Indian comfort food in Little India, Singapore is a food paradise.
- Family-Friendly: With Universal Studios, Night Safari, and the S.E.A. Aquarium, it’s perfect for kids and parents alike.
- Shopping Mecca: Orchard Road, Bugis Street, and Marina Bay Sands—whether you’re a bargain hunter or a luxury shopper, there’s something for you.
- Culture Fusion: Chinese temples, Malay mosques, and Hindu shrines—all within walking distance. It’s like experiencing Asia in one compact city.
It’s safe, clean, vibrant, and endlessly entertaining—making it one of the most beloved destinations for Indians.
Do Indians Need a Visa for Singapore?
Yes, Indian passport holders need a Singapore visa before entering the country. Luckily, the process is straightforward and digital-friendly, meaning no long embassy queues.
Types of Singapore Visas for Indians
Depending on why you’re visiting, here are the most common options:
1. Tourist Visa
For vacations, family visits, and short getaways. Usually valid for 30 days, with single or multiple entry options.
2. Business Visa
If you’re heading for conferences, trade fairs, or business meetings.
3. Transit Visa
If you’re stopping over in Singapore en route to another destination. (Though many Indians don’t need this if they’re just transiting without leaving the airport.)
For most travelers, the tourist visa is the go-to choice.
How to Apply for a Singapore Visa from India
Think of this as your roadmap:
- Decide your visa type – Tourist is the most common.
- Gather your documents:
- Passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Completed application form (Form 14A)
- Flight tickets & hotel bookings
- Bank statement (proof of funds)
- Passport (6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
- Apply through an authorized channel: Singapore doesn’t accept walk-ins at embassies. You’ll need to apply via authorized travel agents, visa facilitation centers, or trusted visa service providers.
- Pay the visa fee – Varies depending on the visa type.
- Processing time: Usually 3–5 working days, though it’s always best to apply at least 2–3 weeks in advance.
Budgeting for a Singapore Holiday
Let’s be real—Singapore isn’t the cheapest destination. But with some planning, it doesn’t have to break the bank either. Here’s what to expect:
- Flights: ₹15k–30k for round trips from major Indian cities.
- Stay: Budget hostels (₹1.5k/night), mid-range hotels (₹5k–8k/night), luxury (~₹15k+).
- Food: Hawker center meals for ₹300–500, restaurants for ₹1.5k–3k per person.
- Transport: The MRT is cheap (~₹150 for a day pass). Taxis cost more but save time.
- Attractions: Universal Studios (₹5k), Gardens by the Bay (₹1.5k), Singapore Flyer (~₹2k).
👉 Average cost for a 5–7 day trip: ₹1.2–2 lakhs depending on your travel style.
Top Places Indian Travelers Must Visit in Singapore
Once you’ve got your Singapore visa, here’s your must-do list:
1. Marina Bay Sands & Gardens by the Bay
A skyline icon, best viewed at night when Supertree Grove lights up like a neon forest.
2. Sentosa Island
Home to Universal Studios, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and endless beaches. Basically, fun central for families and thrill-seekers.
3. Singapore Zoo & Night Safari
Where you’ll see animals in naturalistic settings—don’t miss the world-famous Night Safari experience.
4. Orchard Road & Bugis Street
From luxury boutiques to quirky bargains, these streets are shopping heaven.
5. Little India & Chinatown
Get your fix of masala dosa, stroll through vibrant temples, and shop for souvenirs.
6. Clarke Quay
Perfect for riverside dining, nightlife, and those iconic boat rides.
Insider Tips for Smooth Travel
- Stay Connected: Grab a tourist SIM card at Changi Airport—it’s cheap and comes with data bundles.
- EZ-Link Card: Your key to MRT and buses. Load it up and travel seamlessly.
- Weather Prep: Singapore is humid year-round—carry water and wear light clothes.
- Respect Rules: No littering, chewing gum, or jaywalking—Singapore fines are no joke!
- Foodie Pro Tip: Eat at hawker centers. They’re cheap, clean, and offer the most authentic Singaporean food experience.
Cultural Experiences to Try
Beyond touristy attractions, try these unique experiences:
- Explore Peranakan Culture: Visit Katong and Joo Chiat for colorful shophouses and heritage trails.
- Tea at Raffles Hotel: Experience a colonial-era classic—high tea in one of the city’s most iconic hotels.
- Festivals: Plan your visit around Chinese New Year, Deepavali, or the Mid-Autumn Festival for stunning celebrations.
Why Singapore Is a Top Pick for Indians
- Food Familiarity: From dosas to biryani, Indian restaurants are everywhere.
- Language Comfort: English is widely spoken, making communication easy.
- Safety: One of the safest cities in the world—perfect for families and solo travelers.
- Quick Escape: A visa process that’s simple, plus short flights from India, makes it an easy getaway.
Apply for Your Singapore Visa with OneVasco
Travel should be about exploring the world, not stressing about paperwork. That’s where OneVasco comes in , making your Singapore visa application smooth and hassle-free. With expert support, you don’t have to worry about documents or deadlines; you just focus on your bucket list.
So, whether it’s strolling through Gardens by the Bay or shopping your heart out at Orchard Road, your Singapore story begins with one step: apply for your Singapore visa with OneVasco.