Japan vs Singapore: work visa
Japan or Singapore for a work visa? Side by side: $35 vs $72 all-in, 5 to 7 days vs 3 to 5 days decision, funds to show, process type, biometrics and which one fits your plan.
Verdict
- Japan is cheaper ($35 vs $72 all-in)
- Singapore decides faster (3 to 5 days)
- Singapore asks for less money in the bank ($500 vs $800)
Japan vs Singapore: work visa side by side
| Japan | Singapore | |
|---|---|---|
| Visa format | E-visa | E-visa |
| Process | e-visa | e-visa |
| Biometrics | No | No |
| Interview | No | No |
| Government fee | $5 | $23 |
| vistolane filing fee | $30 | $49 |
| All-in per traveller | $35 | $72 |
| Decision window | 5 to 7 days | 3 to 5 days |
| Validity | 90 days | 30 days |
| Stay | Up to 90 days | Up to 30 days |
| Entries | Single | Multiple |
| Funds to show (work visa) | $800 | $500 |
| work visa route | Specified Skilled Worker | Employment Pass |
Which is cheaper?
Japan costs $35 all-in ($5 government fee plus $30 filing) and Singapore costs $72 ($23 plus $49). Japan is cheaper by $37 per traveller. Neither figure includes optional attention plans or airport transfers.
Which is faster?
Japan: 5 to 7 days (5–7 working days). Singapore: 3 to 5 days (3–5 working days). vistolane quotes a guaranteed decision date for both before you pay.
Which needs less money in the bank?
Japan asks for about $800 and Singapore about $500 for a work visa. Singapore is the lower bar. In both, statements must be seasoned for three months and match the plan you describe.
How the processes differ
Japan: e-visa. Singapore: e-visa. The steps are the same shape, so documents prepared for one largely serve the other.
Which should you pick for a work visa?
For sponsored work the employer's side decides: Japan uses Specified Skilled Worker and Singapore uses Employment Pass. Salary thresholds and occupation lists change yearly, so check the permit page for each and let a licence-checked partner file.