The Singaporean government offers a variety of visa options for foreigners who wish to live, work, and study in the country. One of these visa options is the S Pass, which is a work pass issued to foreign workers who have a job offer in Singapore and meet the eligibility criteria. However, can S Pass holders study in Singapore as well?
The short answer is yes. S Pass holders are allowed to enroll in part-time courses, such as language courses, professional development courses, and short-term courses, while working in Singapore. However, if they wish to pursue full-time studies, they need to obtain a student visa, also known as a Student Pass.
To be eligible for a Student Pass, S Pass holders must first obtain a letter of acceptance from a recognized educational institution in Singapore. They must also meet the eligibility criteria set by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore, which includes:
- Being accepted into a full-time course at a recognized educational institution in Singapore
- Having a valid passport with at least six months’ validity
- Being in good health and not having a criminal record
- Meeting the financial requirements to support themselves during their studies
- Having a sponsor or guarantor who is a Singapore citizen, Singapore Permanent Resident, or a foreigner with a valid work pass or long-term visit pass.
S Pass holders who wish to study full-time in Singapore should apply for a Student Pass before their S Pass expires. The application process can take up to six weeks, and applicants are advised to apply well in advance to avoid any delays.
In conclusion, S Pass holders in Singapore are allowed to study in the country, but they need to obtain a Student Pass if they wish to pursue full-time studies. As with any visa application, it is important to carefully read and follow the eligibility requirements and application procedures to ensure a smooth and successful application process.