IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Beginning June 1, Singapore will extend multiple-journey visas valid for 10 years to nationals of the People’s Republic of China.

What does the change mean? Chinese nationals who have previously visited Singapore and whose visa applications are supported by relevant Singaporean agencies will automatically be granted the 10-year visas, allowing them to make repeat trips to Singapore without having to renew their visas as often.

  • Implementation time frame: June 1.
  • Visas/permits affected: Multiple-journey visas (MJVs).
  • Who is affected: Nationals of the People’s Republic of China and their dependents.
  • Impact on processing times: The longer visa validity period will eliminate the need to reapply for visas for each visit.
  • Business impact: The MJVs will facilitate business travel, especially for those making frequent trips.
  • Next steps: Eligible applicants do not need to apply separately for the visas; those who qualify will automatically be granted an MJV.

Background: Chinese nationals applying for a visa will be considered for the 10-year MJVs if they have visited Singapore in the past. The same visas will be extended to the main applicant’s spouse and children below the age of 21. The application process and government fees are unchanged. MJV holders will also have faster border processing by being able to use automated immigration clearance service at Singapore’s airports.

BAL Analysis: The longer validity will benefit frequent business travelers from China. However, they are reminded that while the MJV allows repeat entry during the validity period, it does not lengthen the permitted duration of each stay, which generally ranges from 14 to 30 days depending on the discretion of the immigration officer.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in Singapore. For additional information, please contact singapore@bal.com.

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