Water baptism is not required for salvation. Some churches point to a few verses to try to teach that you are not saved until you've been baptized in water. However, no passage, properly understood, can prove such a doctrine. The whole concept of a ritual act to obtain salvation is out of harmony with the New Testament. Because baptism is not part of the gospel of salvation.
Baptism is a very important step of obedience in the life of every true believer.
Baptism by immersion should be received by every Christian sometime after trusting in Christ for salvation. Baptism is a sign, a pledge, a public testimony that you have become a Christian. Baptism is like a wedding ring. Without one, people assume that you are not married. In New Testament times, if you were not baptized, people would assume that you are not yet a believer.