新加坡IPA Letter是什么？申请流程有哪些？

Of course. Here is a comprehensive guide to the IPA Letter in Singapore, covering what it is, its purpose, who needs it, and how to apply for it.

What is an IPA Letter in Singapore?

The IPA Letter (In-Principle Approval Letter) is an official document issued by Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). It serves as a formal notification that your application for a certain pass (like an Employment Pass, S Pass, or Student's Pass) has been approved in principle.

Think of it as a conditional offer. The final approval is granted only when you have met all the conditions stated in the letter and have been granted a valid Singapore entry pass.

Key Points to Remember About an IPA Letter

1. It's Not the Final Pass: The IPA is a pre-approval. The actual pass (a physical card or digital version) is issued only after you have arrived in Singapore and completed the necessary formalities.
2. It Has an Expiry Date: Every IPA letter is valid for a specific period (e.g., 6 months from the date of issue). You must enter Singapore and complete the pass formalities before this expiry date.
3. It Lists Conditions: The letter will clearly state the conditions you must meet, such as the salary for an EP holder, the school for a student, or the employer for a foreign worker.
4. It's Mandatory for Entry: You must present this IPA letter to the Singapore immigration officer when you arrive at the checkpoint (Changi Airport, Tuas Checkpoint, etc.).

Who Needs an IPA Letter?

An IPA is required for most long-term pass applications. The most common types are:

What's Inside an IPA Letter?

An IPA letter typically contains the following information:

• Applicant's Details: Full name, passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
• Type of Pass: Clearly states the pass you have been approved for (e.g., Employment Pass).
• Validity Period: The dates during which the IPA is valid and you must enter Singapore.
• Issuing Authority: Either MOM or ICA.
• Conditions of Approval:
  • For an EP/S Pass: The approved salary, company name, and job title.
  • For a Student's Pass: The approved educational institution and course of study.
• Next Steps: A clear instruction on what to do upon arrival in Singapore (e.g., "Report to Work Pass Division at MOM within 1 month of your arrival").
• Special Pass: If you are already in Singapore on a different pass (e.g., a Short-Term Visit Pass), the IPA may grant you a Special Pass to allow you to stay and complete the formalities for your new pass.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do After Receiving Your IPA Letter

Receiving your IPA is a huge step, but there are still crucial actions you need to take.

Step 1: Before Travelling to Singapore

1. Check Your IPA Validity: Ensure you plan your travel to Singapore before the IPA expires.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather the original and photocopies of all documents required for your pass formalities. These usually include:
   • Your passport (with at least 6 months validity).
   • The IPA letter (print it out).
   • Recent passport-sized photographs.
   • Medical insurance (especially for students).
   • Other documents as specified in your letter (e.g., educational certificates, marriage certificate for a DP).
3. Inform Your Employer/Educational Institution: Coordinate with them on your arrival date and the next steps.

Step 2: Upon Arrival in Singapore

1. Proceed to Immigration: When you land at Changi Airport or enter at a land checkpoint, proceed to the immigration counter.
2. Present Your Documents: Hand your passport and the IPA letter to the immigration officer. They will stamp your passport, granting you a Short-Term Visit Pass (STVP). This STVP allows you to stay in Singapore to complete your pass formalities.
3. Do Not Overstay: The STVP has a limited validity (usually 2-4 weeks). You must complete your pass registration within this period.

Step 3: Completing Your Pass Registration

This step depends on who issued your IPA.

A. If your IPA was issued by MOM (for EP/S Pass holders):

1. Book an Appointment: You need to book an appointment at the MOM's Work Pass Division. This can be done online via the MOM website.
2. Attend the Appointment: Go to the appointed time and place with all your original documents.
3. Submit Biometrics: You will need to provide your fingerprints and have your photograph taken.
4. Receive your Pass: Once your application is processed, you will either receive your physical pass card by mail or be issued a digital pass via the SGWorkPass app.

B. If your IPA was issued by ICA (for Student's Pass/Dependant's Pass holders):

1. Submit Your Application: You must submit your pass application online via the ICA's e-Service portal. You will need to create an account and upload your documents.
2. Pay the Issuance Fee: Pay the required fee online.
3. Attend Biometrics Registration: You will receive an appointment to visit the ICA Building to complete your biometrics registration.
4. Receive your Pass: Your Student's Pass or DP card will be mailed to your Singapore address within a few weeks. You can track the status online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: My IPA letter has expired. Can I still get my pass? A: No. If your IPA expires, the approval is cancelled. You will need to submit a fresh application through your employer or school, and you may be subject to reassessment.

Q: Can I enter Singapore using my IPA letter multiple times? A: No. The IPA letter is typically for a single entry. Once you use it to enter Singapore, the immigration officer will stamp your passport, and the IPA's purpose is fulfilled.

Q: What is the difference between IPA and P (Pass) or STP (Student's Pass)? A: IPA is the letter of approval. P Pass or STP is the actual physical or digital pass card that proves your legal status to stay, work, or study in Singapore. You get the IPA first, then the pass card.

Q: How long does it take to get the actual pass after arriving in Singapore? A: For EP/S Passes, it can take a few days to a couple of weeks after your MOM appointment. For Student's Passes, it typically takes 3-6 weeks after you submit your application online.

Useful Links

• MOM WorkPass Services: https://www.mom.gov.sg/workpass
• ICA e-Services: https://www.ica.gov.sg/services
• Check Pass Status (MOM): https://eservices.mom.gov.sg/epassstatus
• Student's Pass (ICA): https://www.ica.gov.sg/residents/international-students/student-pass

Always refer to the official MOM or ICA websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as procedures and requirements can change.