How to apply for a passport in Singapore

Applying for a passport in Singapore is a straightforward process, but it’s important to understand the requirements and steps involved. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining or renewing your Singapore passport. We’ll also discuss how to replace a lost or damaged passport and answer some frequently asked questions.

Table of Contents

1 Can you apply for a passport online?

2 How to apply for a passport

3 Documents required for passport application

4 Cost of a Singapore passport

5 Types of passports in Singapore

6 Processing time for passport

7 Guaranteed acceptance with a Smartphone iD passport photo

8 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

9 Sources

10 Continue Reading

Can you apply for a passport online?

Yes, you can apply for a Singapore passport online through the ICA website. This is the most convenient and efficient method, as it allows you to complete the application process from the comfort of your home. However, you can also apply by post or by using a deposit box if you prefer.

How to apply for a passport

To apply for a passport in Singapore, you have several options:

1. Online application:

Visit the ICA website and complete the online application form. Upload a digital passport photo and make the payment electronically.

2. By post:

Obtain the application form from the ICA website, complete it, and mail it along with the required documents and payment to the ICA.

3. Deposit box:

Place your completed application form, required documents, and payment in an ICA deposit box located at selected locations.

In-person:

Apply at the ICA Building or at a Singapore overseas mission if you are residing abroad.

Documents required for passport application

When applying for a passport, you will need to submit the following documents:

Completed application form
Valid passport photo (1 digital photo for online applications)
Identity card (NRIC) for Singaporeans or valid Entry/Re-entry Permit for Permanent Residents
Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate or citizenship certificate)
Additional documents may be required in specific cases, such as for minors or those applying from overseas

Cost of a Singapore passport

The cost of a Singapore passport varies depending on the type of passport and the method of application. Here are the current fees:

Standard passport (child/adult) – new/renew:

Online, by post, or deposit box: S$70
In-person at ICA or Singapore overseas missions: S$80

Replacing a lost/damaged passport:

First time: S$50 in addition to the standard fee
Subsequent times: S$100 in addition to the standard fee

Types of passports in Singapore

There are two main types of passports issued in Singapore:

Standard passport: This is the most common type of passport, issued to citizens and permanent residents for international travel.
Diplomatic/Official passport: These passports are issued to government officials and diplomats for official travel purposes.

Processing time for passport

Applications

The processing time for passport applications depends on the method of application and the volume of applications received. Generally, online applications take around 1 to 2 weeks, while applications submitted by post or deposit box may take 2 to 3 weeks. In-person applications at the ICA Building have the shortest processing time of 1 to 2 days, but they will only be accepted in urgent circumstances.

Passport validity

Singapore passports are valid for a period of either 5 or 10 years. The 5-year validity is standard for children under 16 years old, while adults aged 16 and above are issued passports with a 10-year validity.

Collecting your passport

Once your passport application has been processed, you will be notified to collect your new passport. You can collect it in person at the ICA Building or have it delivered to your registered address. To ensure a hassle-free collection process, make sure to bring along the required documents, such as your identity card and the passport collection notice.

Guaranteed acceptance with a Smartphone iD passport photo

passport photo for passport with smartphone id

To guarantee the acceptance of your passport photo, use our app to take and submit a high-quality digital photo. Our Smartphone iD app is designed to ensure that your photo meets all the necessary requirements, with a team of biometric experts and an advanced AI system checking each photo for compliance. It’s the most cost-effective and efficient way to obtain a valid passport photo for your application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I do if I need to travel urgently but I do not have a valid passport?

In urgent situations, you can apply for a passport in person at the ICA Building. However, you will need to provide proof of your urgent travel need, such as a confirmed flight booking or an official letter from your employer. The ICA will assess your case and may issue a passport on an expedited basis if deemed necessary.

2. How do I apply for a baby’s passport?

To apply for a baby’s passport, you will need to submit the completed application form along with the baby’s birth certificate, parents’ identity cards, and a valid passport photo of the baby. The application process is similar to that for adults, but both parents must sign the application form unless one parent has sole custody

3. What should I do if my Singapore passport is lost, stolen, or damaged while I’m abroad?

If your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged while you’re overseas, contact the nearest Singapore embassy or consulate immediately. They will assist you in obtaining an Emergency Certificate to facilitate your return to Singapore. Upon your return, you can apply for a replacement passport at the ICA Building.

4. Can I renew my expired passport, or do I need to apply for a new one?

In Singapore, you cannot renew an expired passport. Instead, you must apply for a new passport following the standard application process. Make sure to apply for a new passport well before your current one expires to avoid any inconvenience.

5. How do I submit my passport photo for online applications?

When applying for a passport online, you will need to upload a digital passport photo. Use our Smartphone iD app to capture and submit a high-quality photo that meets all the necessary requirements. Our app makes it easy to take a valid passport photo from the comfort of your home, saving you time and money.

Sources

https://www.ica.gov.sg/documents/passport/apply

https://www.ica.gov.sg/documents/passport/collect

https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/esvclandingpage/apples