Good news for Indian travelers! Singapore offers a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) that allows Indians to explore the city-state without obtaining a separate Singapore visa. Here’s everything you need to know.
Related: Singapore Visa Guide for Indians | Visa Fee Calculator
What is the 96-Hour VFTF?
The Visa-Free Transit Facility allows eligible Indian nationals to enter Singapore for up to 96 hours (4 days) without a Singapore visa while transiting through the country.
Key Points
- Stay up to 96 hours (4 days) in Singapore without a visa
- Must hold valid visa from select countries (US, UK, Australia, etc.)
- Can enter by any mode but must depart by air or sea
- One-time use per trip (forward OR return journey, not both)
- No extension of stay allowed
Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid visa from | USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, or Switzerland |
| Visa validity | At least 1 month from date of entry to Singapore |
| Onward ticket | Confirmed air/ferry/cruise departing within 96 hours |
| Entry mode | Any (air, land, sea) |
| Exit mode | Air or sea only |
How It Works
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you have a valid visa (at least 1 month validity) from one of these countries:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- Canada
- Germany
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Switzerland
Step 2: Book Your Flights
- Book a flight with a Singapore layover
- Ensure your departure from Singapore is within 96 hours
- Keep your onward ticket ready to show at immigration
Step 3: At Singapore Immigration
- Present your passport with valid visa
- Show your confirmed onward ticket
- Immigration officer will grant entry (subject to approval)
Important Rules
One-Time Use Only
You can use VFTF only once per trip:
- Option A: Use on forward journey (India → Singapore → US)
- Option B: Use on return journey (US → Singapore → India)
- NOT both ways on the same trip
Single Journey Visa Holders
If you have a Single Journey Visa (SJV) that’s already used:
- You can still use VFTF on your return journey
- Must travel directly from the country that issued the visa
- Must not have returned to India since using the SJV
No Extensions
- Extension of stay is strictly not allowed
- You must leave Singapore within 96 hours
- Overstaying will affect future visa applications
What This Means for Indian Travelers
This facility is perfect for:
- Layover exploration - Turn a long layover into a mini Singapore trip
- Budget travel - Save on Singapore visa fees (₹3,100)
- Spontaneous stops - Add Singapore to your US/UK trip without extra paperwork
If VFTF Doesn’t Apply
If you don’t qualify for VFTF, you’ll need a Singapore visa:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | ₹2,100 |
| Service charge | ₹1,000 |
| Total | ₹3,100 |
What to Do Next
- Check if your US/UK/other visa has at least 1 month validity
- Book flights with Singapore layover (96 hours or less)
- Keep onward ticket confirmation handy
- Arrive at Singapore immigration with all documents
- Enjoy 4 days in Singapore visa-free!
Singapore’s VFTF is one of the best transit facilities available to Indian passport holders - make the most of it on your next international trip.