Introduction
Singpass, Singapore’s national digital identity system, is a convenient and secure way for citizens and residents to access over 1,000 government and private sector services online. While historically only available to citizens and permanent residents, foreigners can now also apply for and use Singpass. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to apply for a Singpass as a foreigner in 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for a Singpass, foreigners must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must possess a valid Employment Pass, S Pass, or Long-Term Visit Pass
- Must have a valid Singpass proxy*
- Must have a valid Singapore mobile number
- Must have an email address
*A Singpass proxy is a Singaporean citizen, permanent resident, or long-term resident who can verify the foreigner’s identity during the application process.
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
First, gather the following documents:
- Foreigner’s passport or NRIC
- Singpass proxy’s NRIC or FIN
- Work permit or pass
- Singapore mobile number
- Email address
Step 2: Visit Singpass Website
Next, visit the Singpass website (https://www.singpass.gov.sg) and click on the “Apply for Singpass” button.
Step 3: Select Foreigner Application
On the application page, select the “Apply for Singpass if you are not a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident” option.
Step 4: Provide Personal Details
Enter the following personal details:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Nationality
- Passport number
- Work permit or pass number
- Singapore mobile number
- Email address
Step 5: Select Singpass Proxy
In the “Singpass Proxy” section, enter the following details of your proxy:
- Name
- NRIC or FIN
- Contact number
- Email address
Step 6: Verify Identity
The Singpass proxy will receive a verification email or SMS. They must click on the link or enter the verification code provided to verify the foreigner’s identity.
Step 7: Select Singpass Access Code
Create a Singpass Access Code (SAC), which is a 6-digit password that will be used to log in to Singpass.
Step 8: Submit Application
Review your application and submit it.
Application Processing
The Singpass application process takes approximately 5 working days. Once the application is approved, the foreigner will receive an email and SMS notification.
Activating Singpass
To activate Singpass, follow these steps:
- Visit the Singpass website (https://www.singpass.gov.sg).
- Click on the “Activate Singpass” button.
- Enter your SAC and verification code.
- Set up your Singpass PIN, which is a 4- to 8-digit password that will be used to access Singpass services.
Using Singpass
Once Singpass is activated, foreigners can access a wide range of government and private sector services online, including:
- Applying for work passes
- Paying taxes
- Checking CPF contributions
- Booking healthcare appointments
- Making online payments
- Signing documents digitally
Benefits of Using Singpass
There are several benefits to using Singpass for foreigners:
- Convenience: Singpass provides a single point of access to a wide range of services, eliminating the need to create multiple accounts or remember multiple passwords.
- Security: Singpass is a secure system that uses two-factor authentication to protect user accounts.
- Efficiency: Singpass streamlines the application and access process for various services, saving foreigners time and effort.
- Integration: Singpass is integrated with many government and private sector websites, making it easy to access services across multiple platforms.
Tips and Tricks
- Apply for Singpass as soon as possible after arriving in Singapore to avoid any delays in accessing essential services.
- Keep your Singpass proxy informed about your application and ensure they are available to verify your identity when necessary.
- Use a strong and unique SAC and PIN to protect your Singpass account.
- Store your SAC and PIN securely and avoid sharing them with anyone.
- If you lose your SAC or PIN, you can reset it through the Singpass website or by calling the Singpass Helpdesk at 6335 3333.
FAQs
1. Can foreigners apply for Singpass if they do not have a Singpass proxy?
No, foreigners require a Singpass proxy to verify their identity during the application process.
2. What is a Singpass proxy?
A Singpass proxy is a Singaporean citizen, permanent resident, or long-term resident who can verify the foreigner’s identity during the application process.
3. How long does it take to process a Singpass application for foreigners?
The Singpass application process takes approximately 5 working days.
4. What are the benefits of using Singpass for foreigners?
Singpass provides convenience, security, efficiency, and integration for foreigners accessing government and private sector services in Singapore.
Conclusion
Applying for and using Singpass as a foreigner in 2025 is a straightforward process that offers a range of benefits. By following the steps outlined in this guide, foreigners can easily access numerous essential services online, saving time, effort, and hassle.