With travel fully back on track in 2026 and popular destinations like Japan and Taiwan buzzing with tourists again, many of us are embracing the joy of frequent getaways. But before you rush to book those flight deals, don’t let the excitement distract you from the key things you need to prep before takeoff.
One of the must-dos is to check the validity of your passport before buying your travel insurance, booking for your air tickets, and packing your luggage. The last thing you want is to be turned away at the airport because of a careless oversight. Keep in mind that the general rule of thumb is that your passport should at least have 6-months of validity before departure, and if you do not have that, here are some things to take note of for your passport application or renewal.
How Do I Renew or Apply For My Passport?
You’ll usually need to apply or renew your Singapore passport due to several reasons such as your passport being expired (or is expiring in 9 months or less), is running out of pages or the worst case scenario — gets lost or damaged.
Online application/renewal
The online passport application process will take less than 15 minutes. To get started, you’ll need to log into Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (ICA) e-Service using your Singpass to complete the online application form and submit it. You’ll be able to track the status of your application in the same e-Service website, so that you’ll know when to collect your passport when it’s ready.
If you happen to run into any problems trying to complete your online application, you can email [email protected] with a screenshot of the error message and the ICA administration team will assist you.
By mail
Alternatively, you can download the Singapore passport application form here and complete it with the required details. Once you’re done with it, post your form over to ICA’s address which is ICA Services Centre, 2 Crawford Street, Level 2, Singapore 207218. As your form is not submitted via the e-Service platform, you will need to login to MyICA to check the status.
Urgent travel
ICA offers urgent same-day or next-day passport processing if you can provide proof of immediate travel, such as flight or hotel bookings. For this, walk in early to Level 1 of the ICA Building and be prepared for a wait of around 3 hours.
How Long Does it Take to Renew A Passport?
It usually takes about 2 weeks for you to receive your new passport if your application is successful.
Passport validity
As of October 1, 2021, Singaporean citizens aged 16 and above can enjoy a 10-year validity on their passports, while those below 16 have a 5-year validity. If you need to extend the expiry date of your passport, please note that renewal fees will apply.
Passport collection
You’ll receive a notification via SMS, email, or post once your passport is ready for collection. Thereafter, you’ll need to make an appointment to either collect it at a post office near you or at the ICA building. Do remember to bring your IC along to verify your identity before you collect your passport.
What is the Passport Renewal Fee and Application Fee?
Application/renewal type | Required fee |
|---|
Passport renewal & application | $70 |
Passport renewal & application (in foreign currency) | $80 |
Lost passport penalty (first time) | $50 |
Loss passport penalty (subsequent times) | $100 |
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What Documents are Required For A Singapore Passport Application and Renewal?
Before you apply for your passport, you’ll need to have some documents and information ready on hand including:
Your identity card number/birth certificate number/citizenship certificate number
Your passport’s expiry date
A recent passport-sized colour photograph of yourself (taken within the last three months) – ensure it follows ICA's photo requirements.
VISA or Master Credit/Debit Card, American Express card or other internet banking details
When Do I Need To Renew My Passport?
The general guideline is to renew your passport when it has less than six months of validity remaining. This is especially crucial if you plan to travel internationally, as many countries require a passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay.
By renewing your Singapore passport ahead of time, you can avoid potential travel disruptions and ensure a hassle-free journey. It's recommended to check your passport's expiration date periodically and initiate the renewal process in a timely manner to ensure smooth travels.
Tips to Taking Passport Photos
Online applications will require a passport-sized photo (45mm by 35mm), so make sure that you’ve got the photo resized or taken with the correct specifications. Another important thing to take note of is to have your photo in a digital, coloured format and it must be taken within the last three months.
If your photo doesn’t meet any of these requirements which are according to the global International Standards Organisation (ISO) and International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) passport photo guidelines, you’ll probably face difficulties in entering foreign countries.
Here are some tips to ensure you meet the passport photo criteria:
Stand against a plain, white background such as an even white wall
Have a brightly lit area for the photo taking
Leave ample headroom between the edge of the camera frame and the top of your head
Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed
Check that your ears and shoulders are captured in the photo
Avoid tinted glasses or coloured contact lenses
Avoid selfies as the photo needs to be taken through a front-facing camera
Put on a darker top to prevent blending into the white background
Clean camera lens for better photo quality
Keep the image file size below 2MB
If all else fails, there is still another option, which is to get your passport photo taken at photo booths or Foto Express shops which are conveniently available at most shopping malls, MRT stations, and even bus interchanges.
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