A Complete Guide for Visa Renewal Process in Singapore for International Students

16 September 2025

For a large proportion of students, studying abroad is tantamount to opportunity, development, and a prosperous future. Singapore is one of the world-class education, innovation, and career educational destinations in Asia. Singapore is a prime option for students with its highly ranked universities, multiracial society and safe environment. Before you prepare for your educational journey, however, one critical step that you cannot ignore is your visa renewal process in Singapore.

It may look difficult to renew student visas initially, but the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore has developed a planned, meaning organized, online way of making it easier. Knowing when deadlines are, what documents are necessary, and eligibility will save you stress and allow you to focus on your studies. It doesn’t matter if you are a diploma student, bachelor’s degree student, or master’s degree student; being aware will allow you to continue studying without hiccup.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we specialize in assisting international students from application through to graduation. Our team of experts assists you with handling student pass renewal in Singapore effectively so that you can spend less time dealing with paperwork and more time developing your future.

What is a Student Pass in Singapore?

The Student Pass is an official document issued by the ICA allowing international students to legally live and study in Singapore. It is generally valid for the duration of your course. If your course goes beyond your current pass, you’ll need to renew your pass before its expiration. Otherwise, you may face fines, loss of student status, or required departure from Singapore.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing Your Student Visa

1. Check Your Eligibility

Make sure your course is still recognized by the ICA and your institution is on the list of approved institutions.

2. Apply Early

Make your renewal application at least four weeks prior to the expiry of your current pass. Late requests may be refused, leading to unnecessary hassle.

3. Make Use of the Online SOLAR System

Applications are processed via the Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration (SOLAR) portal, which is convenient and efficient.

4. Prepare Required Documents

• Valid passport
• Current student pass
• Recent passport photo
• Confirmation of enrollment or continuation letter from your school
• Record of attendance or transcripts (if necessary)
• Fee for processing charges

5. Wait for Processing

Approvals are normally 2–4 weeks, although busy periods can take longer. ICA may require additional verification or personal attendance.

6. Pick Up Your Renewed Pass

After approval, you’ll receive notification to pick up your new student pass card in person at the ICA.

Major Changes for 2025

• Singapore has now gone entirely digital visa applications, so renewals need to be done online.
• Students need to have a minimum of 90% attendance to be eligible. Low attendance records can cause rejection.
• For some programs, you’ll need to present financial documentation that proves you can afford to pay tuition and living costs.

Smart Tips to Avoid Renewal Problems

• Set reminders for your visa expiry date.
• Keep your passport valid for a minimum of six months.
• Stay enrolled as a full-time student and maintain satisfactory academic progress.
• Retain copies of all receipts and official communications with ICA.

BCES Admissions Abroad is not merely an admissions counselor—we’re your travel companion for the whole international education journey. From picking the schools to dealing with visa renewal in Singapore, our sincere counselors make sure your academic experience is hassle-free. We also offer career advising and counseling so you can make the best out of your study in Singapore experience.