Applying For A Student Visa: A Guide To Brunei's Student Pass

Foreign students intending to study in Brunei are required to apply for a Student Pass or Student Visa. The application process and requirements may vary depending on the student's age, parental employment, and nationality. It is important to note that a Student Pass is different from a Student Visa and is typically required for students whose parents are working in Brunei. The process usually involves submitting the necessary documents, such as passport details, visa forms, and letters of acceptance from educational institutions.

Characteristics of Applying for a Student Pass in Brunei

Student Pass vs Student Visa

To study in Brunei, foreign students need to apply for a Student Pass. This is distinct from a Student Visa, which is not mentioned in the sources. The Student Pass is valid for one year, provided the Father's/Sponsor's employment pass is still valid. The process for obtaining a Student Pass involves:

• Collecting the Student Pass Application Form from the school's Front Office and completing it.
• Attaching the required documents, including photocopies of the parent's and child's passport pages, the child's Dependent Pass, and the parent's employment pass.
• Submitting the completed application to the school for processing with the Ministry of Education.
• Upon approval, parents/guardians collect the processed Student Pass, consisting of three differently coloured papers.
• Endorsement at the Immigration Department, where the pink form is retained, and the white and green forms are returned.
• Submission of the endorsed green form back to the school for validation of the Student Pass.

In contrast, a Student Visa is typically required for entry into a country and is usually processed before the individual travels to the country. The specific requirements and procedures for obtaining a Student Visa vary across countries. For example, in Singapore, foreign students need to obtain a Student Pass, which is equivalent to a Student Visa in other countries. The Singapore Student Pass application process is online, and students must have already been accepted into a full-time course at an approved educational institution.

In Malaysia, foreign students are required to apply for a Student Pass from the Department of Immigration. The application procedure varies depending on the student's country of origin and the type of educational institution they plan to attend. Additionally, students from countries that require a visa to enter Malaysia must obtain a Visa with Reference (VDR) from a Malaysia Representative Office before entering the country.

Application process

To apply for a student pass in Brunei, you must be a foreign student intending to study in the country. The student pass is valid for one year, and you must have a valid passport and employment pass. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a student pass:

• Collect a Student Pass Application Form from the school's Front Office and complete it.
• Attach the required documents, including:

• Photocopies of the parent's passport and valid employment pass.
• Photocopies of the child's passport and Dependent Pass.
• Previous student pass, if applicable.

• Submit the completed application form and documents to the Front Office for processing.
• The school will forward the application to the Ministry of Education (MOE) Student Pass Section for approval, along with an endorsed application form countersigned by the Principal.
• Upon approval, the parents/guardians will be notified and required to collect the processed Student Pass from the school. This will consist of three differently coloured papers (white, green, and pink) issued by the Ministry of Education.
• Proceed to the Immigration Department for endorsement, bringing the passports of both the student and parent/guardian, along with the three coloured papers.
• After endorsement, the Immigration Department will retain the pink form, and the white and green forms will be returned to the parents/guardians.
• Submit the endorsed green form to the school as validation of the Student Pass.

It is important to note that the process may vary slightly depending on the specific school and the student's circumstances. Additionally, there are separate procedures for obtaining a Student Visa, which is required for non-Bruneian students aged 18 years or above, or those with parents residing outside of Brunei.

Required documents

To apply for a student pass in Brunei, you will need to submit a range of documents to support your application. Here is a detailed list of the required documents:

Firstly, you will need a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months before entering Brunei. You will need to provide a photocopy of the passport page that displays your personal details. If you are a minor, you will also need to provide a photocopy of your parent's passport page showing their details.

Secondly, you will require a visa. For a Single Entry Visa, you will need to pay BND20. If you are from Malaysia or Singapore, you are exempt from this fee. You will need to provide a photocopy of the visa stamp in your passport.

Thirdly, you must provide proof of your enrolment at an educational institution in Brunei. This can be in the form of an offer letter or a letter of acceptance/admission from the university.

Additionally, you may need to submit an introductory letter from the Ministry of Education or an application form endorsed by the school. If you are a minor, you will need to provide a photocopy of your Dependent Pass. If you have had a previous student pass, you must submit this as well.

Finally, some institutions may request additional documents, such as a guarantor's identity card copy or a specific student pass form. It is important to check with your chosen institution for any further requirements or specifics.

Costs

The costs of applying for a student pass in Brunei vary depending on the student's nationality, age, and type of pass or visa required. Here is a breakdown of the potential costs:

• Student Pass: The Student Pass is valid for one year and is required for non-Bruneian students whose parents are working in Brunei. The cost of the Student Pass is not explicitly mentioned, but there are associated fees for the visa application and other related processes.
• Visa Application Fees: The fees for a single-entry visa vary depending on the purpose of the visit. A single-entry student visa costs B$15, while a single-entry employment visa costs B$20. These fees must be paid before entering Brunei and are separate from the pass fees.
• Multiple-Entry Visa: For students who require a multiple-entry visa, there is an additional cost of BND50. This fee is mentioned in the context of the University Teknologi Brunei's procedures, where it is specified that this amount is for the multiple-entry visa specifically.
• Student Visa for Non-Bruneian Boarders: Non-Bruneian students aged 18 or above, or those whose parents live outside Brunei, will need to apply for a Student Visa. The cost for the first 12 months is approximately B$200 to B$250, and subsequent renewals cost approximately B$100.
• First Visa Application Deposit: In some cases, such as at the University Teknologi Brunei, there may be a deposit required for the first visa application. The amount mentioned is BND1,500, which will be reimbursed upon completion of studies and the cancellation of the Student Pass and Visa.
• Photocopies and Documents: While not a direct cost associated with the pass or visa, students will need to provide photocopies of various documents, such as passports, offer letters, and other relevant paperwork. The cost of making these photocopies should be factored in.
• Travel Costs: Students will need to present themselves to the Immigration Department for endorsement and may need to travel to and from Brunei during the application process. Travel costs, including transportation and accommodation, should be considered.

It is important to note that these costs may change, and that different institutions may have specific requirements and associated fees. Students should always refer to the latest information provided by the relevant authorities and their educational institution.

Renewal process

The renewal process for a student pass in Brunei involves several steps and requirements that must be completed in a timely manner. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the renewal process:

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Before initiating the renewal process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for renewing your student pass. The specific requirements may vary, but generally, you must be enrolled as a full-time student at a recognised educational institution in Brunei and maintain satisfactory academic progress. Check with the relevant authorities or your educational institution for the latest eligibility criteria and any additional conditions that may apply.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

The documentation needed for renewal is crucial. While the specific documents may vary, you will likely need to provide evidence of your continued enrolment and academic progress. This may include items such as a letter of confirmation from your educational institution, a valid student visa, and proof of payment of any required fees. In some cases, you may also need to submit a new application form and supporting documents, similar to your initial student pass application.

Step 3: Submit the Renewal Application

Submit your renewal application and supporting documents to the appropriate authority, which is typically the Ministry of Education or the Immigration Department, depending on the specific regulations in Brunei. Make sure to submit your renewal application before your current student pass expires to avoid any disruptions to your legal status in the country. Each institution may have its own process, so be sure to check with them directly.

Step 4: Await Processing and Approval

After submitting your renewal application, wait for it to be processed and approved by the relevant authorities. The processing time can vary, so it is advisable to initiate the renewal process well in advance to ensure uninterrupted legal status in Brunei. The approval process may involve background checks, verification of documents, and ensuring that you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Step 5: Receive Notification and Collect Your Renewed Student Pass

Once your renewal application has been approved, you will be notified, and you can then proceed to collect your renewed student pass. The collection process may vary, but it typically involves visiting the office of the relevant authority or your educational institution. They will provide you with instructions on collecting your renewed student pass and any other necessary documentation.

Step 6: Comply with Any Additional Requirements

In some cases, there may be additional steps or requirements after your student pass has been renewed. For example, you may need to update your residential address with the relevant authorities or apply for additional permits or visas if you plan to engage in specific activities, such as part-time work or internships. Stay informed about any post-renewal requirements and ensure that you comply with them to maintain your legal status in Brunei.

Frequently asked questions