Visa

[makale]

Do you have to have a valid working visa prior to arriving in Singapore, or when you arrive and start working is it done then?

[sundaymorningstaple]

Both wrong.

You only need a tourist visa to arrive in Singapore.

Then you need to find an employer who wants to give you a job.

If you get the job, then the employer has to file for a Work Pass (various levels, WP, S, Q, P1, P2 and another special one called a PEP). All of these and their respective requirement can be found here:

http://www.mom.gov.sg/publish/momportal ... _pass.html

When the potential employer file the application, they have to hope that they can convince the MOM WHY they need to hire a foreigner (especially if there are sufficient local/PR with suitable qualifications/esperience already here).

You cannot work UNTIL you have and IPA (In Principle Approval). Once that is issued, then you get to take the IPA and report to the relevant authorities to have your pass issued (it's only good for the one employer and you can only work for one employer at a time).

Once you have your work pass in hand or the temporary work pass (not always given) you can report for duty with the employer.

sms

[makale]

Many thanks for the information. I actually have a job to come to, have been employed by a bank over there. Does my employer obtain my visa for me before i arrive, or do i get the letter then go off and get the relevant visa?
Many thanks.

[nakatago]

most probably the latter; your employer initiates the process of your employment pass application but you can only finish it (e.g. for medical, passport stamping) once you get here. so depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter singapore.