Are you planning to study in Singapore and bring your spouse along with you?
If so, you are reading the perfect article that talks about every point that you must know when going through this process.
Singapore has become a top spot for international students, thanks to its excellent universities and the strong economy.
So, if you’re married and planning to study here, Singapore has some well-organized visa options that allows you to focus on your studies while keeping your family close.
However, this isn’t a normal process like you would imagine.
Therefore, let us walk you through everything that you should know about this.
Overview of studying in Singapore with a spouse
Singapore has earned its name as an education paradise.
Now this is something that you already know.
Moreover, with English as the main language in here, what do you think the best part of it is?
Well, what makes it even better is how safe it is and the high quality of life that you would get here.
In addition to that, the government has set up simple processes for both student and dependent visas. So you can plan your studies without worrying about being away from your spouse.
Basic visa Terms
Let’s get familiar with some key terms that you’ll need to know.
When you’re studying, you’ll get what’s called a Student’s Pass (STP).
Whereas, your spouse will get something called a Dependent’s Pass.
This means, that you’ll see these terms everywhere in official papers, so it’s good to know them from the start.
Types of Student Visas in Singapore
Singapore has different kinds of student visas depending on what you’re planning to do.
Whereas, most people get the Student’s Pass (STP), which is what you need for full-time courses at approved schools.
On the other hand, if you’re doing practical training, you’ll need a Training Employment Pass (TEP). And if you’re doing research, there’s a special Research Student Pass for that as well.
To get an STP, you need two main things: as in you should be accepted into an approved school and proof that you can pay for your studies.
Furthermore, the TEP works a bit differently, where you need a Singapore organization to sponsor you, and it’s usually for shorter training programs.
Finally, for the Research Student Pass, you need to be connected to a recognized research institution and have your research plans approved.
Understanding Dependent’s Pass for Spouses
The Dependent’s Pass is what your spouse needs to join you in Singapore.
But there’s a catch, which means that you need to earn around S$6,000 per month to bring your spouse over.
Remember that this is the least amount that you must earn.
Moreover, you’ll also need your marriage certificate, and if it’s not in English, you’ll need to get it translated and authenticated.
Just remember, Singapore only recognizes certain types of marriages, where polygamous marriages won’t work here.
Therefore, keep that in mind.
Step-by-Step Application Process
As the first step, you must get into a university.
Once you’re accepted, you can start your Student’s Pass application through the SOLAR system.
After that has been approved, you can apply for your spouse’s Dependent’s Pass.
In this case, you’ll need quite a few documents, as in your:
- Passport Copies
- Educational Certificates
- Proof of Finances
- Marriage Certificate
- Work History Documents.
When it comes to time, the whole process takes about 2-4 weeks for your pass and another 3-5 weeks for your spouse’s pass.
Note: You’ll need to pay separately for these passes.
Working Rights and Restrictions
Here’s the deal when it comes to working.
As a student, you can work part-time during school terms (up to 16 hours weekly) and full-time during breaks.
Anyway, your school needs to approve this, though.
However, for your spouse, it’s pretty simple, as they can work full-time once they get a Letter of Consent (LOC) from the Ministry of Manpower.
Note: Getting the Letter of Consent (LOC) is easy and it takes about a week. The only thing that they just need is a job offer from a Singapore employer to approve this.
Living Arrangements and Practicalities
When it comes to housing, you’ve got options.
Some universities have housing for couples, but spots are limited.
When it comes to that, most people end up renting private places, either in HDB flats or condos.
Anyway, let’s say that you are going for the renting option.
In this case, you’ll need to show both your passes, and most places want you to sign a lease for at least a year.
Once you arrive, you’ll need to set up some basics as well.
As in, things like healthcare, bank accounts, and utilities should be your first priorities.
Note: Banks usually want to see both passes before allowing you to open an account and utility companies might ask for a security deposit since you’re not local.
Financial Planning and Requirements
Studying in Singapore isn’t cheap.
Whereas, international student fees can be anywhere from S$20,000 to S$50,000 per year, depending on your program.
For a couple, living expenses usually run between S$2,500 and S$4,000 monthly.
Remember that, where you live and how you like to spend will affect this.
When you’re applying, you need to prove that you can cover all these costs, including your tuition, living expenses, and whatever your spouse needs too.
Note: There are available scholarships, but those are pretty competitive and usually go to students with outstanding grades.
Getting everything sorted to study in Singapore with your spouse takes some work, but it’s totally possible to do with good planning.
Just to be on the plus side, start early, keep in touch with the right people, and make sure all your documents are error-free.
While it might seem like a lot to handle, many students find it’s worth it to study here while keeping their spouse close.
Well, it is obvious right? Who doesn’t like to stay with their loved ones when achieving their goals.
Contact TEVS a Singapore student visa consultants in Sri Lanka for more information.
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