Your Guide to the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) in Singapore

For SMEs in Singapore, handling the immigration needs of employees and their families is crucial. The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) allows foreign dependants to stay in Singapore for extended periods. This guide offers key details on the LTVP, including its benefits, the application process, and tips for smooth management. Understanding these aspects will help you support your employees effectively and ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

1. What is the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)?

The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is designed for foreign family members of Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and specific work pass holders, allowing them to stay in Singapore for extended durations beyond the typical visitor visa.

1.1 Eligibility for the LTVP

To qualify for an LTVP, the following conditions must be met:

• Family Members of Singapore Citizens or Permanent Residents: This includes foreign spouses and children of Singaporean or permanent resident individuals.
• Dependants of Employment Pass (EP) or S Pass Holders: Covers foreign dependants of EP or S Pass holders.

Example: If a Singaporean employee’s spouse is living abroad, applying for an LTVP will allow them to join the employee in Singapore, enhancing family unity and reducing the stress of living apart.

1.2 Benefits of the LTVP

The LTVP offers several advantages:

• Extended Residency: Dependants can reside in Singapore for up to five years, depending on their specific circumstances.
• Family Integration: Enables family members to live together, which supports a stable family environment.

Example: When an SME’s employee is granted an LTVP for their spouse, it results in a more stable home life, which can translate to improved focus and productivity at work.

2. Applying for the Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)

Understanding the application process for the LTVP is essential for smooth handling of the pass for your employees and their families. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

2.1 Application Process

2.1.1 Check Eligibility

• Ensure that the applicant qualifies based on their relationship to a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or as a dependant of an EP or S Pass holder.

2.2.2 Gather Required Documents

• Proof of Relationship: Submit marriage or birth certificates.
• Identification Documents: Provide passports and recent photographs.
• Proof of Financial Support: Demonstrate the ability to support the applicant financially.

Example: If you are applying for an LTVP for an employee’s child, you will need to collect and submit the child’s birth certificate, your passport, and financial documents to ensure the application is processed smoothly.

2.2.3 Submit the Application

• Applications are submitted online through the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or Ministry of Manpower (MOM) websites.

Example: Complete all sections of the application and upload the necessary documents on the ICA or MOM portal to avoid any potential delays.

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2.2.4 Processing Time for LTVP Applications

2.2.4.1 LTVP Issued by ICA

• Standard LTVP applications are generally processed within about 6 weeks if all required documents are correct.
• Applications from foreign spouses of Singapore citizens who did not complete a Pre-Marriage LTVP Assessment (PMLA) may take up to 6 months.

2.2.4.2 LTVP Issued by MOM

• Dependants of EP or S Pass holders are typically processed within 3 weeks.
• Dependants of EP (Sponsorship), Personalised Employment Pass (PEP), EntrePass, or EP (Sponsorship) holders usually see processing times of around 8 weeks.

Note: Some applications might take longer if additional information or documents are needed.

Example: For a spouse’s LTVP application without a PMLA, the process may extend up to 6 months. Conversely, an application for a dependant of an EP holder might be completed in about 3 weeks, allowing for a quicker relocation.

2.2.5 Check Application Status

Track the application status online through the ICA’s e-Service platform:

• Visit the ICA Website: Access the ICA’s official website.
• Use MyICA: Log into your MyICA account or use the specific e-Service for application status checks.
• Provide Required Information: Enter your application number and other personal details to view the status.

Example: After submission, check the application status online. If the status indicates the need for additional documents, promptly providing the requested information can help avoid delays.

2.2.6 Receive the LTVP

Once approved, the LTVP will be issued, allowing the holder to live in Singapore as specified.

Example: Following approval, the LTVP is issued, enabling the dependant to join their family in Singapore. This smooth transition supports integration and stability in the family’s new environment.

3. Considerations for SMEs in Singapore

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore, managing LTVP applications effectively is crucial for employee satisfaction and compliance with regulations.

3.1 Impact on Your Business

3.1.1 Enhancing Employee Satisfaction

• Family Support: Providing assistance with LTVP applications demonstrates that you value employees’ personal needs, improving job satisfaction and loyalty.
• Improved Work Performance: Employees with their families in Singapore tend to be more focused and productive.

Example: By facilitating an employee’s LTVP application for their spouse, you help alleviate the stress associated with family separation, which can lead to higher engagement and enhanced work performance.

3.1.2 Ensuring Compliance

• Stay Updated: Regularly update your knowledge of immigration policies to ensure your business adheres to current regulations.
• Manage Documentation: Efficiently handle all necessary passes and permits for employees and their dependants.

Example: Keeping informed about the latest immigration regulations and assisting employees with the required documentation ensures compliance and smooth handling of LTVP applications.

Summary

The Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) is an important tool for allowing foreign employees and their families to reside in Singapore for extended periods. For SMEs in Singapore, understanding and managing the LTVP process is essential for improving employee satisfaction and ensuring regulatory compliance. By supporting your employees with LTVP applications, you contribute to a more cohesive and productive workplace.

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