In 2019, 21 suspects were arrested for immigration offences including overstaying and employing immigration offenders. Overstaying in Singapore is a serious offence and Singapore has always taken a serious stance on it. Read on to find out 4 things you need to know about overstaying in Singapore.
- What is deemed as overstay?
According to Section 15 of the Immigration Act, no person shall remain in Singapore after the cancellation or the expiration of any permit, pass or notification issued to him, unless he is otherwise entitled or authorised to remain in Singapore.
- What is the period of stay granted?
S Pass: Up to 2 years
Employment Pass Usually 2 years but may be shorter
Long-term Visit Pass: Up to 2 years, depending on the type of application
Long-term Visit Pass-Plus: 3 years (NB: 5 years upon renewal)
- Punishment for overstaying
A person shall be guilty of an offence if he is found to have overstayed in Singapore.
In the case where the overstay period does not exceed 90 days, he shall liable to a fine not exceeding $4,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to both.
In the case where the overstay period exceeds 90 days, he shall be punished with imprisonment term not exceeding 6 months and shall also be caned with not less than 3 strokes. Where canning is not applicable, he shall, in lieu of caning, be punished with a fine not exceeding $6,000.
- How to prevent an overstay?
If you wish to extend your stay beyond the period granted, applications for an extension have to be applied. That said, these applications are subject to approval. Please visit ICA website for more information.
Consult a criminal lawyer
Overstaying is a serious offence. If you are charged for an offence of overstaying, you may wish to seek legal consultation. Our team of lawyers are happy to see what we can do for you. Contact us here!
