TODAY Online
7 November 2014

 

ICA assesses each entry, application based on prevailing criteria

We refer to Mr Danny Chua’s letter, “Rocky road to long-term pass for foreign spouse” (Oct 27, online).

 

Marriage to a Singaporean does not automatically qualify a foreigner for long-term stay here. Every application will be assessed holistically on a set of prevailing criteria based on its own merits.

 

As with most countries, a visitor’s entry into Singapore is neither a right nor automatic, and each entry is considered on its merits.

 

Granting of Visit Passes is assessed by Immigration and Checkpoints Authority officers at the checkpoints upon visitors’ arrival and subjected to prevailing immigration policies, among others.

 

Visitors must fulfil our entry requirements, and may be subjected to interviews and additional checks, which may be conducted regardless of gender, race or nationality, before they can be considered for entry.

 

We have looked into the case and found that our officers had conducted themselves in a fair and professional manner. We have also responded directly to Mr Chua on two occasions.

 

We take this opportunity to seek travellers’ understanding and cooperation as we conduct the necessary checks and facilitate smooth clearance without compromising security.

 

From

CHIA HUI KENG

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY

 

 

<Original Letter>

 

 

TODAY Online

27 October 2014

 

Rocky road to long-term pass for foreign spouse

I refer to the report, “New moves to smooth way for transnational marriages here”; Oct 25)

 

I am a retired banker who had been divorced for six years. I remarried and applied for a long-term pass for my new wife from China, but this was rejected. My appeal was also unsuccessful.

 

She now has a nine-week social visit visa. A reapplication or extension requires a visit to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. The wait is usually three hours.

 

In August, she was detained for two hours for investigation at Changi Airport. My mother-in-law, too, was detained in January.

 

I am a frequent flyer and had never seen such high-handed behaviour and attitude as from the immigration officer who said: “Shut up and sit down”.

 

My nephew married a Korean and was given approval for permanent residence in Korea within three days, and his card within 10 days. That is efficiency and polite service.

 

DANNY CHUA HOCK CHYE