Applying for a Student's Pass in Singapore for an international school student involves several steps. It's important to note that the process may be subject to updates or changes, so it's advisable to check the official website of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore for the most current information. Here is a general guide:
1. Choose the right international school:
- Ensure that the international school you plan to attend is registered with the Committee for Private Education (CPE) in Singapore and are an approved foreign system school (FSS) institution. Only students enrolled in registered schools are eligible for a Student's Pass.
2. Receive an acceptance offer:
- Obtain an acceptance offer from the international school in Singapore. The international school will typically provide you with a Letter of Acceptance or a Letter of Offer.
3. Apply for a Student's Pass:
- Once you have the Letter of Acceptance from the international school, the school will register the Student's Pass application in the ICA portal called SOLAR+. Usually, this is done two to three months before starting school.
- You do not need to be in Singapore to apply for a Student's Pass.
4. Prepare Required Documents:
- Gather all necessary documents, which may include:
- Passport photo page (biodata)
- Child's personal information
- Parents’ personal information including financial means
- Residential address
- Email address
- Recent, passport-sized, digital, colour photograph taken within the last three months
- Children aged 12 years or below are required to submit their vaccination information to Health Promotion Board (HPB) and obtain a verification certificate.
5. Submit the Application:
- Submit the Student's Pass application through the SOLAR+ system. Ensure that all required documents are uploaded accurately. The SOLAR system will guide you through the application process.
6. Pay the Application Fee:
- Pay the non-refundable Student's Pass application fee online.
7. Await In-Principle Approval (IPA):
- After submission, wait for the In-Principle Approval (IPA) letter. This letter will outline the conditions you must meet for the issuance of the Student's Pass. Applications typically take 1-2 weeks to be reviewed but can take up to 8 weeks.
8. Collect the Student's Pass:
- If your application is approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) Letter. Upon arrival in Singapore, you must make an appointment to visit ICA and then Student's Pass will be issued.
9. Attend Medical Examination:
- Older children sometimes may be required to take an additional medical examination.
Since February 2023, physical Student's Pass cards are no longer issued. Student's Pass holders with a SingPass account can view the digital card in the SingPass app. Students who don't have a SingPass account will be sent a link to download a PDF copy of the digital Student's Pass card.
Remember to start the application process well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. Always check the official ICA website for any updates or changes to the application procedure.
