Singapore student visa, Asia’s premier education hub, has introduced significant changes for international students for the 2026 academic year. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has fully digitized the entry process, tightened compliance checks, and updated work privileges for Student Pass holders.
If you are planning to study at NUS, NTU, or any Private Education Institution (PEI) in 2026, the old process of manual stamping and physical card collection is gone. In its place is a seamless but strict digital ecosystem.
This guide details the SOLAR+ system, new fees, work rights, and common pitfalls to avoid for a successful application.
1. The New “SOLAR+” Application System (2026)
The Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) system has been upgraded to SOLAR+, making the process completely paperless but more rigorous.
The 3-Step Digital Process:
- Registration by Institution: You cannot start the application yourself. Your university (e.g., NUS, SMU, or a PEI like SIM/Kaplan) must first register you in SOLAR+ using your passport details and offer letter.
- eForm 16 Submission: Once registered, you will receive a SOLAR Application Number. You must log in, fill out eForm 16, and pay the processing fee.
- New for 2026: You must now upload a digital biometric photo that meets strict ICA standards during this step.
- Digital IPA (In-Principle Approval): If approved, you will receive a digital IPA letter. This is your entry visa. You do not need a separate sticker visa on your passport.
Biometric Verification at Entry
Upon landing at Changi Airport in 2026, students must undergo iris and facial scanning.
- No Physical Endorsement: You will not get a stamp in your passport. Instead, you will receive an electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass) via email notification after clearing immigration.
- Card Collection: Within 10 days of arrival, you must book an appointment at the ICA Building to collect your digital Student Pass (or physical card if required for banking).
2. Singapore Student Visa Fees (2026)
The cost structure has been revised slightly. Fees are split into two stages: application (non-refundable) and issuance (upon approval).
| Fee Type | Amount (SGD) | Amount (INR Approx.) | When to Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Fee | S$45 | ₹2,800 | At the time of submitting eForm 16. |
| Issuance Fee | S$60 | ₹3,800 | After approval, before downloading the pass. |
| Multiple Entry Visa | S$30 | ₹1,900 | Paid with issuance fee (if applicable). |
| Total Official Cost | S$135 | ~₹8,500 |
Note: Private agents or consultants may charge an additional service fee of ₹5,000 – ₹15,000.
3. Work Rules Update 2026: Can You Work?
Singapore strictly differentiates between “Government-Aided” and “Private” institutions regarding work rights.
A. Public Universities (NUS, NTU, SMU, SUTD, SIT, SUSS)
- Term Time: You can work a maximum of 16 hours per week.
- Vacation: You can work unlimited hours during official school holidays.
- No Work Pass Needed: Your Student Pass acts as your work permit.
B. Private Education Institutions (PEIs)
- Strict Rule: Students at most private colleges (e.g., Kaplan, PSB Academy, MDIS) are NOT allowed to work—neither part-time nor full-time.
- Exception: If the work is a mandatory Industrial Attachment (Internship) that is part of your curriculum, you can work.
- Warning: Working illegally is a serious offence. You risk being expelled and deported.
4. Rejection Trends 2026: Why Visas Get Denied
The rejection rate for Indian students has ticked up slightly to 7-10%. The SOLAR+ system now cross-checks data automatically.
Top 3 Reasons for Rejection:
- “Insufficient Funds”: ICA requires proof that you can afford tuition + living expenses (~S$1,500/month).
- Solution: Show liquid funds (Fixed Deposits/Savings) of at least S$30,000 (₹18 Lakhs) for a 1-year course.
- “Academic Progression” Issues: If there is a long gap (3+ years) in your education without a valid work history, or if you are downgrading your qualification (e.g., doing a Diploma after a Bachelor’s), ICA may view your intent as non-genuine.
- Medical Failure: You must pass a medical test for HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) upon arrival. If you fail, you are repatriated immediately.
5. Timeline & Checklist for 2026
- When to Apply: 1-2 months before your course starts. Do not apply earlier than 2 months.
- Processing Time:
- Standard: 5-10 working days (SOLAR+ is faster than the old system).
- Peak Season (July/Aug): Up to 3-4 weeks.
Document Checklist for eForm 16:
- Valid Passport (6+ months validity).
- Offer Letter from the Institute.
- Passport-sized digital photo (white background, taken within 3 months).
- Birth Certificate (if requested).
- Bank Statements (Financial Proof).
- Academic Transcripts.
Need Help with SOLAR+ Registration?
Navigating the new digital system can be tricky.
Contact Ausizz Migration Consultants:
- Website: www.ausizzmigrationconsultants.com
