Singapore Expands Student Visa Policy to Allow Family Accompaniment
New Policy Supports International Students Singapore has introduced a new policy allowing international students to bring their parents or grandparents along while they pursue their education.
New Policy Supports International Students
Singapore has introduced a new policy allowing international students to bring their parents or grandparents along while they pursue their education. This policy aims to provide additional support to students by enabling them to have close family members nearby during their studies.
Inclusion of Male Guardians
Previously, only female guardians, such as mothers or grandmothers, were permitted to accompany students. However, the updated policy now allows male guardians, including fathers and grandfathers, to apply for long-term visit passes (LTVPs) to stay with the student. Despite this expansion, each student is still limited to being accompanied by only one guardian.
Applying for a Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)
Eligible students can now apply for an LTVP for a parent or grandparent. The application process requires several documents, including a recent photograph, passport, birth certificate of the student, and other relevant family documents. The application must be sponsored by a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident (PR) aged 21 or above.
Application Fees and Processing Time
The fees for submitting an LTVP application are S$45, with an additional S$60 for the issuance of the pass and S$30 for a Multiple Journey Visa if required. Payments are non-refundable and can be made online through various methods. Processing of applications typically takes about six weeks, although some may require additional time.
Conclusion
This policy change reflects Singapore’s efforts to attract more international students by acknowledging the importance of family support during academic pursuits. By allowing students to have their parents or grandparents nearby, Singapore is making it easier for them to focus on their studies and feel more at home.
