Everything You Need to Know About the ICA Long-Term Visit Pass for Parents

October 23, 2024 jacki

Singapore offers a range of long-term stay options for non-residents, with one of the most sought-after being the ICA Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for parents. This pass allows parents of Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) to stay in the country for extended periods, fostering closer family bonds and providing peace of mind. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the ICA Long-Term Visit Pass for parents, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and the step-by-step application process.

What is the ICA Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for Parents?

The ICA Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) for parents is designed for individuals who wish to bring their parents to Singapore for extended stays. It’s a perfect solution for expatriates, Singaporean citizens, or PRs who want their elderly parents to live closer and be a part of their day-to-day life. The LTVP provides an extended duration of stay, beyond what a short-term visit visa would allow, making it an ideal option for long-term family reunions.

Key Benefits of the Long-Term Visit Pass for Parents

Obtaining the ICA LTVP for parents comes with several significant advantages, making it a popular choice for families:

Extended Stay: Unlike tourist visas, which only allow short visits, the LTVP enables parents to stay in Singapore for a year or more, with the possibility of renewal.
Stability: Families can live together in Singapore without worrying about frequent re-entries or travel limitations.
Healthcare Access: Although LTVP holders aren’t eligible for subsidized healthcare like citizens or PRs, they still have access to Singapore’s excellent healthcare system. It’s advisable for families to arrange private health insurance to cover medical expenses.
Quality of Life: Singapore offers a high quality of life, with excellent infrastructure, safety, and recreational options, making it a comfortable place for elderly parents to live.

Who is Eligible for the ICA Long-Term Visit Pass for Parents?

Eligibility for the LTVP for parents is determined by several factors. Here’s an overview of the key requirements:

Sponsorship by a Singapore Citizen or PR: The sponsor (child) must either be a Singapore citizen or Permanent Resident. The child will be responsible for applying on behalf of the parent and must prove their ability to support the parent during their stay.
Financial Requirements: The sponsor must demonstrate financial capability to support their parent, typically by submitting documents such as bank statements, pay slips, CPF contribution statements, or income tax returns.
Parent’s Health and Character: The parent must meet certain health and character requirements. They should be in good health and not have any criminal records that could prevent them from entering and staying in Singapore.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the ICA Long-Term Visit Pass for Parents

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to apply for the LTVP for parents:

Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents

Before you begin the application process, ensure you have all the necessary documents prepared. Some of the key documents you’ll need include:

Valid Passport: The parent’s passport should be valid for at least six months from the time of application.
Sponsor’s Identification: A copy of the sponsor’s NRIC (National Registration Identity Card).
Birth Certificate of the Sponsor: The sponsor’s birth certificate to prove the relationship between the sponsor and the parent.
Marriage Certificate: If the parent is married, a copy of their marriage certificate may be required.
Financial Documents: Recent pay slips, CPF statements, or other proof of income demonstrating the sponsor’s ability to support their parent.
Health and Character Declaration: In some cases, ICA may request medical certificates or a declaration of good health.

Step 2: Submit the Application Online

Once all documents are prepared, the application can be submitted online through the ICA’s e-Service portal. Here’s how to do it:

Log in to the ICA e-Service: The sponsor can log in using their SingPass (for Singapore citizens and PRs) to access the application portal.
Fill in the Required Details: Complete the necessary fields for both the sponsor and the parent, including personal information, intended duration of stay, and reason for the visit.
Upload Supporting Documents: All required documents must be uploaded in the correct format (PDF or JPEG). Ensure they are clear and legible to avoid processing delays.
Pay the Application Fee: The application requires a non-refundable fee of S$30, which can be paid online via the e-Service platform.

Step 3: Await Processing

After submitting the application, ICA will review and process the documents. Typically, the processing time takes around four to six weeks, but it could vary depending on the completeness of your application or if additional documents are required.

Step 4: Additional Requests from ICA

If ICA requires further information or documentation, they will contact you. It’s important to respond quickly and provide the necessary documents to avoid delays in processing.

Step 5: Approval and Collection of LTVP

Once the application is approved, you will receive a notification via email. The parent may be required to undergo a medical examination (depending on ICA’s requirements) before collecting the pass. The LTVP can be collected from the ICA office once all conditions are met.

Renewal of the Long-Term Visit Pass

If the initial LTVP is approaching its expiration date, you can apply for a renewal. The renewal process is relatively straightforward, and as long as the sponsor continues to meet the financial and eligibility criteria, the renewal will likely be granted without issue.

Key Tips for a Smooth Application Process

Ensure All Documents Are Complete: Missing documents are a common reason for delays in the application process. Double-check that you have included all required paperwork.
Apply Early: Start the application process well in advance of your parent’s intended stay in Singapore. This gives you enough time to deal with any unforeseen delays or issues.
Be Financially Prepared: Make sure your financial documents clearly demonstrate that you can support your parent during their stay.
Monitor Your Application: Keep track of your application status using the reference number provided during the submission process.

Living in Singapore on the Long-Term Visit Pass

Parents granted the LTVP can enjoy an extended stay in Singapore. While they are not eligible for employment or subsidized healthcare, they have access to a high standard of living and quality healthcare services. Families can purchase private health insurance to ensure that their parents’ medical needs are covered during their stay.

Healthcare Access

While parents on the LTVP are not eligible for the same healthcare subsidies as Singaporean citizens or PRs, they can still receive treatment at both public and private healthcare facilities. It’s advisable to purchase a comprehensive health insurance plan to cover their medical expenses.

Family Time and Quality of Life

The LTVP allows parents to live near their children, making it easier to spend time with family, participate in family activities, and enjoy life in Singapore. For elderly parents, being close to their children and grandchildren can provide emotional support and enhance their quality of life.

Conclusion

The ICA Long-Term Visit Pass for parents is a valuable option for Singapore citizens and PRs who wish to bring their parents to Singapore for an extended stay. It provides families with the chance to live together and strengthen family bonds. By carefully following the application process and ensuring that all requirements are met, you can navigate the LTVP application smoothly. With the pass in hand, parents can enjoy an extended, fulfilling stay in Singapore, benefiting from the country’s high quality of life and strong family connections.