9 Hardest Visas for Singaporeans to Get in 2025

Singaporeans, rejoice! Your passport has once again soared to the top, proudly reclaiming its spot as the world’s most powerful passport in the latest Henley Passport Index. With visa-free access to a whopping 195 out of 227 destinations worldwide, the world is practically your oyster. 

But wait – before you start packing your bags for that spontaneous adventure, let’s talk about the other destinations where obtaining a visa is akin to solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. Grab your pen and paper (or your trusty digital device) because you’re going to need all the details on the 9 hardest visas for Singaporeans to snag in 2025!

Also read: Sip Coffee While Peeking Into North Korea at This Unique South Korean Starbucks

1. North Korea

Dreaming of the enigmatic landscapes of North Korea? Think again. North Korea is hands-down the toughest visa to obtain. You must book your trip through a state-approved tour agency, and even then, your itinerary is tightly controlled. No wandering off the beaten path, no unscheduled interactions with locals, and definitely no selfies with the Supreme Leader. It’s a highly restrictive environment where spontaneity takes a permanent vacation.

TripZilla Tip: Only the most dedicated adventurers with meticulous planning need apply. Expect strict guidelines and limited freedom once you’re there.

2. Turkmenistan

If ancient castles and vast deserts are calling your name, Turkmenistan might seem tempting. However, its rigid visa policy makes entry a formidable challenge. Every visitor needs a letter of invitation (LOI) from the Turkmen State Migration Service, secured through a local sponsor. Prepare for heaps of paperwork and a waiting period that can stretch up to 20 days. It’s a bureaucratic maze, but the reward? A glimpse into one of the world’s least visited countries.

TripZilla Tip: Partner with a reliable sponsor and double-check all your documents to navigate the bureaucratic labyrinth smoothly.

3. Russia

Fancy a romantic rendezvous by the Kremlin? Russia’s visa process is as intricate as a Fabergé egg. You’ll need to provide a detailed travel history for the past ten years, including every trip, destination, and duration. Frequent travellers might find this particularly daunting. Additionally, obtaining an official invitation letter is mandatory, adding another layer of complexity. But with precise preparation, your Russian adventure can still become a reality.

TripZilla Tip: Keep a meticulous travel record and ensure your application is flawless to enhance your chances of approval.

4. Chad

Chad is a treasure trove of unspoiled beauty, but getting there is no walk in the park. With only 14 countries enjoying visa-free access, Singaporeans must navigate a stringent application process. An invitation letter from a sponsor or a hotel in the capital, N’Djamena, is essential. Be prepared to make non-refundable hotel reservations, as a rejected visa means lost funds. Plus, finding a consular office nearby can be a logistical headache, especially if you’re based outside major cities.

TripZilla Tip: Secure your invitation letter early and double-check your application to avoid costly mistakes.

5. Bhutan

Bhutan’s pristine landscapes and serene monasteries are irresistible, but getting there isn’t straightforward. Unless you’re from India, Bangladesh, or the Maldives, individual visas aren’t an option. Instead, you must book a tour package through a registered agency, paying a mandatory sustainability fee that often comes bundled with your tour price. This ensures that tourism remains sustainable and respectful of Bhutan’s natural beauty.

TripZilla Tip: Book through an official tour agency and confirm that all fees are included in your package for a hassle-free experience.

6. Somalia

Adventure seekers eyeing Somalia should tread carefully. Ranked as one of the most dangerous places to visit by the Global Peace Index, Somalia’s visa process is exceptionally tricky. Only a handful of consulates issue visitor visas, and even then, securing one often requires sponsorship and proof of security arrangements. If you do manage to get a visa, expect to travel with a security detail to ensure your safety.

TripZilla Tip: Seriously consider the risks and ensure you have all necessary safety measures in place before attempting to visit.

7. Western Sahara

Western Sahara remains a tricky destination due to its political instability and lack of a stable government. Visa policies can change abruptly, and approvals are rarely guaranteed. Navigating this uncharted territory requires patience and flexibility, as well as staying updated on the latest political developments to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

TripZilla Tip: Stay informed about the current political climate and be prepared for a potentially lengthy and uncertain approval process.

8. Afghanistan

With ongoing conflicts and severe safety concerns, Afghanistan is a no-go for most travellers. The visa process is highly restrictive, and governments worldwide strongly advise against visiting. Unless it’s absolutely necessary, it’s best to steer clear and prioritize safety over adventure in this volatile region.

TripZilla Tip: Prioritise your safety and heed all travel advisories before considering Afghanistan as a destination.

9. Eritrea

Eritrea offers stunning landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry, but obtaining a visa here is anything but simple. Every visitor must apply in person at an Eritrean embassy, and the approval process can be notoriously slow and opaque. Furthermore, entry is often denied without a clear purpose of visit, making spontaneous trips virtually impossible.

TripZilla Tip: Plan well in advance, have a clear itinerary, and maintain patience throughout the application process.

Navigating the Visa Labyrinth

While Singaporeans enjoy one of the most powerful passports globally, boasting visa-free access to 195 destinations, there are still a handful of places where obtaining a visa requires extra effort, patience, and meticulous planning. However, whether you’re dreaming of ancient deserts, mystical mountains, or vibrant cultures, these challenging visas shouldn’t deter your wanderlust. Instead, see them as part of the adventure – a test of your planning prowess and determination. 

So, whether you’re charting a course to the icy expanses of North Korea or the sun-soaked sands of Saudi Arabia, remember that every step of the journey counts. With the right preparation and a dash of perseverance, your adventurous spirit can overcome even the toughest bureaucratic hurdles! Happy planning and safe travels!

Also read: Turkmenistan: The World’s Most Mysterious Country