travel visa requirements in singapore

Do I need a visa to visit Singapore?

Sep 7, 2023 • 3 min read

Singapore is famously known for being a state of rules, so check to see whether you need a visa for your visit © 2p2play / Shutterstock

A visit to Singapore is a glimpse into the future. From its modern and almost surreal airport  to its eye-catching and ever-changing skyline, Singapore is continuously innovative.

Even though the tourist entry requirements for most nationalities are straightforward, Singapore is known for its commitment to the rules. Here's what you need to know about visas for Singapore, including what types of visas are available and the rules you’ll need to navigate for trouble-free travel.

What you need to know about visas in Singapore

The visa requirements for travel to Singapore depend on your nationality, how many days you'll spend in the country and why you're visiting. Citizens of 164 different countries can enter Singapore as tourists for a period of 30 or 90 days without a visa.  

Passport holders from the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan and the United States get 90 days visa-free in Singapore, while citizens of some other countries can stay a maximum of 30 days without applying for a visa.

Travelers from countries that aren't on the visa waiver list  have to apply for either an e-visa or a regular tourist visa, depending on their nationality. While e-visa applications can be easily done at any online e-visa provider and have a processing time of just one day, regular visas are a bit more involved, requiring travelers to get in contact with their nearest Singaporean diplomatic mission or apply for a visa through an agent.

Singapore's Frequent Traveller Programme

The Frequent Traveller Programme allows visitors from Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Thailand, the United Kingdom and the United States to use the automated clearance facilities at immigration, a process that significantly simplifies entering Singapore and helps frequent travelers avoid long wait times at peak hours.

What else do you need when visiting Singapore?

All tourists arriving in Singapore must have a valid passport (with a minimum validity of six months at the time of departure), sufficient funds for their stay in Singapore and an SG Arrival Card.

Unlike most other Southeast Asian countries, Singapore does not have a paper-based Disembarkation Card to be filled out on arrival in the country. Instead, all travelers (including those enrolled in the Frequent Traveller Programme) are required to submit an SG Arrival Card online, which asks for basic personal information, trip details and a health declaration. Obtain an SG Arrival Card on the MyICA phone app or the official ICA website .

All travelers, including residents, who arrive in Singapore from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission must present a yellow fever vaccine certificate. Travelers who do not have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate are liable to be quarantined at their own cost for up to six days.

Will I get a stamp in my passport?

Travelers passing through immigration at Changi Airport receive an electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass) via email rather than a passport stamp. The e-Pass contains details of the visit pass granted, including the maximum number of days and the last day you're allowed to stay in Singapore.

This article was first published Oct 22, 2021 and updated Sep 7, 2023.

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Travel requirements for short-term visitors to Singapore

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Singapore set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Singapore High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Singapore.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Singapore, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ 6 months after the date you arrive.

If you are a resident in Singapore there is no minimum passport validity required. Apply for a renewal before your passport expires.

Singapore does not recognise dual nationality beyond the age of 21. A citizen of Singapore is required by Singapore law to renounce any other nationalities they hold before the age of 22 in order to retain their Singaporean citizenship.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

All arrivals in Singapore must complete an electronic SG Arrival Card in the 3 days before they enter Singapore. This online form asks for travel details and a health declaration. It is illegal to submit a false declaration. Biometric information is also recorded and scanned when you enter and depart Singapore (iris, facial and fingerprints).

Screening for drugs

You can be screened for drugs in your system on arrival in Singapore, including if you’re travelling through. You can be charged with drug consumption even if the drugs were taken in another country, including countries where the use of that particular drug is legal.

You could be detained without trial and, if convicted, you could be imprisoned, caned or executed .

Ship’s crew

There are different entry requirements if you are crew working on ships, small vessels, or pleasure crafts arriving at one of Singapore’s ports or marinas.

Visa requirements

You do not need a visa to enter Singapore. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority decides who can enter Singapore and how long they can stay.

Penalties for overstaying

Penalties for overstaying the time allowed include fines, imprisonment, caning and deportation depending on how long you have overstayed. When you leave Singapore, officials can take your fingerprints if they suspect you are involved in any crime.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Singapore guide .

If you are arriving from certain countries in Africa and Latin America,  you will need to show a yellow fever certificate to enter Singapore . Failure to do so may result in mandatory quarantine or being refused entry to Singapore.

Accommodation 

There are strict laws preventing accommodation being let out for short term rental, such as for tourists.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Singapore. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

It’s illegal to import controlled drugs into Singapore. If convicted, you could be imprisoned, caned or executed .

The following items are also illegal to bring into Singapore:

• vaporisers and e-cigarettes
• tobacco products that are chewed or injected
• chewing gum to sell
• weapons and ammunition (including empty cartridge cases and air guns)
• replica guns, including lighters shaped like a pistol or revolver
• radio communications equipment

See the complete list of prohibited items on the Singapore Customs website.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Singapore Tourist Visa (e-Visa): Requirements and Application Process

Published: April 23, 2024

A Singapore tourist visa (e-Visa) is required for nationals of 35 countries traveling to Singapore as tourists. 

Even though it’s an e-Visa, you cannot apply for it on your own. You need a Singapore local contact or an authorized visa agent to apply for the e-Visa on your behalf. 

Quick summary:

• Who requires it: Nationals of 35 countries
• Validity: 30 days to 2 years, single or multiple-entry
• Allowed stay: 30 days
• Processing time: 3 working days
• Fee: 30 SGD
• Extensions: Once for 30 days

If you haven’t already, read the Singapore Visa Guide for information on various visa options for tourists, their eligibility and requirements.

Table of Contents

Understanding singapore tourist visa (e-visa).

Tourist visa validity

Singapore tourist visa is valid from 30 days to 2 years. The validity of your tourist visa is decided on a case-by-case basis and nationality. The most common validity granted is 3 months. The exact validity will be written on the e-Visa after it’s issued.

Duration of stay

The allowed duration of stay in Singapore is 30 days. Your stay inside Singapore cannot exceed 30 days at a time. 

If you need to stay longer and hold a multiple-entry visa, you can leave and reenter to receive an additional 30-day stay. You can also apply for a 30-day extension from within the country

Allowed number of entries

Singapore tourist visas are usually multiple-entry. But single-entry visas are also issued to certain nationalities such as Bangladesh.

Allowed ports of entry

You can enter Singapore from Changi international airport or any seaport or via land border crossing using the tourist visa. There are no restrictions on where you can enter from.

When to apply

You must apply for your tourist visa within 30 days before arrival in Singapore. The processing time is 3 business days. To summarize:

• Latest: 1 week before traveling
• Earliest: 30 days before traveling

Tourist visa extension

Tourist visa validity cannot be extended but you can extend your allowed stay for additional 30 days once. 

You must apply online on the eServices portal no more than 14 days before the last day of your allowed duration of stay in Singapore.

You require a local sponsor to submit your extension application if you hold a passport from one of the Assessment Level II countries.

Visa extension fee is 30 SGD, are processed within 3 business days and are not guaranteed.

Singapore Tourist Visa (e-Visa) Requirements

Tourist visa eligibility

The countries eligible for the tourist visa are divided into 2 tiers – Assessment Level I and Assessment Level II.

The difference is in the required documents. Chiefly, Level II countries must also submit a Letter of Introduction for Visa Application (LOI).

Assessment Level I Countries

• North Korea
• Turkmenistan

Assessment Level II Countries

• Afghanistan
• South Sudan

Documents required

The following documents are required for the tourist visa.

• Passport valid for at least 6 months on the day of arrival in Singapore
• Photocopy of passport biodata page
• Completed and signed Form 14A
• One passport-size photo (digital photo if using a local contact to apply)

In addition, only Level II countries need to submit this:

• Completed Form V39A (also called a Letter of Introduction for Visa Application or LOI), issued by a local contact in Singapore.

The LOI must be issued by a local contact in Singapore. The local contact must meet the following requirements. 

• Must be a Singapore citizen or a Singapore permanent resident
• Must be at least 21 years old
• Must have a Singpass account

If you don’t know anybody in Singapore who could help you with that, you can instead use an authorized visa agent to assist you with the Letter of Introduction.

Photo requirements

The photo must meet the following requirements.

• Must be taken within the last 3 months
• Must be in color against a plane white background
• Equal brightness, clear, sharp, and not pixelated
• Neutral facial expression with a closed mouth
• Fully visible shoulders and hair
• Any head covering must be dark in color against a white background
• Glasses are permitted as long as the lenses are untinted
• Fully visible eyes and no red eye
• No digital alterations

The digital photo file must meet the following requirements.

• Dimensions of the photo must be 400px x 514px
• Photo size must be of maximum 60KB
• Photo format must be JPG or JPEG

Tourist visa fee

The tourist visa fee is 30 SGD (~22 USD) and is payable online. If using an authorized agent to apply for your visa, you may have to pay the fee in cash in local currency. 

Processing time

The standard processing time for the tourist visa is 3 business days excluding the day of submission.

Tourist Visa (e-Visa) Application Process

You cannot apply for the Singapore tourist visa (e-Visa) on your own. You must apply using a Singapore local contact or an authorized visa agent.

Most Singapore overseas missions do not accept tourist visa applications. They will ask you to use a local contact or an authorized agent. 

But there are still a handful of Singapore embassies in the world that are still accepting tourist visa applications. 

In summary, there are 3 ways to apply for Singapore tourist visa.

• Apply using a local contact
• Apply using an authorized visa agent
• Apply at a Singapore Overseas Mission

Let’s look at each of these options in detail.

1. Apply for tourist visa using a local contact

You must know someone in Singapore who can act as your local contact to apply for the tourist visa on your behalf. 

This local contact in Singapore must have a “Singpass” account. Only Singapore citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents have Singpass accounts. 

Send the following information and documents to your local contact.

• A copy of your passport ID page 
• A digital passport-size photo
• Your email address, phone number
• Your current occupation, highest educational degree and annual income (in SGD)
• Your date of arrival, intended stay, and country of departure

Have your local contact follow the below steps to apply for your e-Visa.

Step 1 : Navigate to the Submission of Application for Visa Electronically (SAVE) portal.

Step 2 : Select “Apply for Entry Visa as a Local Contact (Individual Users)”. You will be redirected to the Singpass website to log in.

Step 3 : Click on “Create a New Application”.

Step 4 : Sequentially fill in the applicant’s details, travel information, and local contact details, upload a photo, and confirm.

Step 5 : Pay the visa fee of 30 SGD from the “MyCard Payment Summary” page. Download the invoice.

Step 6 : Print or screenshot the acknowledgment page and send it to the applicant. This acknowledgment page has the “Visa Application Reference Number” which is required to track or download the e-Visa. 

If your email was used during the application process, you will also receive an acknowledgment email with the “Visa Application Reference Number”. 

If your local contact used their email, they can forward the acknowledgment email to you so you can make a note of the “Visa Application Reference Number” and track the status of your e-Visa. 

The processing of the e-Visa takes 3-5 working days. You can track the application status and download your approved e-Visa. 

Instructions to track the status and download the approved e-Visa are in the sections below. 

2. Apply for tourist visa using an authorized visa agent

The Singapore embassies that do not accept tourist visa applications usually post a list of authorized visa agents on their websites. 

Find the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission in your country and check their website for the list of authorized visa agents.

Go to the authorized visa agent’s office and submit the following documents.

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry into Singapore
• Photocopy of your passport biodata page
• One passport-size photo affixed on the form
• Round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel bookings
• Completed Form V39A LOI (if applicable)
• Visa fee and service fee in local currency

Authorized agents do not keep your original passport with them. Presenting the original passport at the time of application submission is only for verification purposes.

Authorized agents have access to the SAVE portal and they will apply for your visa on your behalf. They will send you the “Visa Application Reference Number” to track and download your approved e-Visa.

Instructions to track the status and download the approved e-Visa are in the sections below.

3. Apply for tourist visa at Singapore overseas mission

Check with your nearest Singapore overseas mission if they accept tourist visa applications. If they do, find out whether you need an appointment or you can just walk in.

Submit the following documents to the Singapore embassy.

• Visa fee in local currency

The embassy will not keep your original passport. Presenting the original passport is only for verification purposes.

You will receive an email from the embassy with the “Visa Application Reference Number” to track and download your approved e-Visa.

How to track tourist visa (e-Visa) status

Even though you had to use a local contact or visa agent to apply, you can track status and download the e-Visa yourself. Follow the below steps to track your e-Visa status.

• Navigate to the Singapore SAVE portal  
• Click on “Enquire Application Status”
• Enter your Visa Application Reference Number, and passport number and click on the “Next” button
• On the next page, you will see your current e-Visa status.

If your visa application is still in process, the status will be “Visa Application in Pending”. If approved, it will be “Your Application is Approved”.

How to download an approved tourist visa (e-Visa)

Follow the above steps to track your e-Visa status. If the visa has been successfully issued, you will see “Your Application is Approved” with your approved visa details. 

Click the “Print e-Visa” button to download your e-Visa as a PDF file. 

Print this e-Visa on an A4 or letter-size sheet and present it with your passport at immigration in Singapore. 

How to contact tourist visa customer service

If you or your local contact have questions, use the following options to contact ICA customer service.

Webpage: Check the User Manual for questions on filling out the visa application  Email: [email protected]

Entry Procedure at the Border

Make sure to print your e-Visa before your trip to Singapore. If you are eligible to use automated immigration lanes, you may not need a print. But the airline might want to see a print of your e-Visa.

Submit SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

Submit your SG Arrival Card (SGAC) online within 3 days before arrival in Singapore. You can submit SGAC on the official SG Arrival Card e-Service portal or MyICA Mobile App ( App Store download and Google Play download ).

Use automated immigration lanes

Passport holders from 60 countries are eligible to use automated lanes at Changi airport and land borders. If you are not eligible to use automated lanes, you may pass through manned immigration desks.

You may be asked to present your e-Visa print. You may also be asked to produce proof of onward travel and proof of sufficient cash to ensure that you do not overstay your visa.

Receive Electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass)

Singapore does not stamp passports on entry or exit. After clearing the immigration, an Electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass) is issued and sent to your email which you have mentioned in your SG Arrival Card. 

You can also retrieve your e-Pass on the ICA website using your Disembarkation/Embarkation number (DE No.) or passport information. 

You can find your DE No. in your SG Arrival Card (SGAC) acknowledgment email, PDF or mobile app.

The e-Pass contains the following details:

• Disembarkation/Embarkation number (DE No.)
• Date and time of issuance of visit pass
• Number of days of stay granted
• Last day of stay allowed in Singapore

The e-Pass will also mention whether you are eligible to use the automated lanes for your departure and any subsequent trips to Singapore. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need to print the singapore e-visa.

Yes. You must print the Singapore e-Visa. Singaporean authorities may have the e-Visa on file already, but you are still asked to present if you’re not using the automated immigration lanes. Also, the airline staff might want to see the e-Visa print when checking in. 

Why is there no visa stamp in my passport?

Singapore has phased out issuing physical stamps in passports. Instead, you will be issued an electronic visit pass (e-Pass) and sent to your email shortly after you enter Singapore.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Travel Advisory July 24, 2023

Singapore - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed . 

Exercise normal precautions in Singapore.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Singapore.

If you decide to travel to Singapore:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.   
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Singapore. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.   
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .    

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

2 page requirement for entry stamp.

Not required for stays under 90 days.

Yellow fever for travelers from certain countries.

20,000 Singapore Dollars.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy singapore.

27 Napier Road Singapore 258508 Telephone: +(65) 6476-9100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(65) 6476-9100 Fax: +(65) 6476-9232 Email:   [email protected]

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

To enter Singapore, you need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended stay. If you plan on regional travel beyond Singapore, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to enter other countries in the region. You do not need a visa for tourist or business visits up to 90 days.

Visit the  Embassy of Singapore  website for the most current visa information. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Singapore. Foreign workers applying for an employment pass are required to undergo a medical screening for HIV/AIDS and a positive test will result in the rejection of a foreign worker’s application.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.  

Safety and Security

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

In Singapore, you may be taken in for questioning if you don’t have your passport with you. Travelers should be aware of the following penalties for certain crimes in Singapore:

·         Possible arrest for jaywalking, littering, or spitting

·         Mandatory caning (a form of physical punishment) for certain vandalism offenses

·         Possible imprisonment, caning, or fines for immigration violations

·         Possible imprisonment, caning or fines for sex crimes or sexually inappropriate behavior. Lewd, unwanted behavior, including inappropriate comments, messages, or photography toward women who find it offensive may result in fines and imprisonment (“Insulting the modesty of woman”). If there is unwanted physical contact of any kind involved (“Outrage of modesty,” molestation), the laws are gender neutral and punishments generally more severe.

·         Severe penalties for drug-related charges, including the death penalty or caning.

·         Strict penalties for those who illegally possess or carry firearms, or who commit crimes with firearms

If you are suspected of consuming or possessing illegal drugs , police may:

·         Conduct unannounced drug tests and property searches, including upon entry into Singapore

·         Require you to provide a urine or blood sample on short notice

A positive finding or an unwillingness to participate can lead to:

·         Denial of entry into Singapore

·         Detention

·         Confiscation of your passport while under investigation

Singaporean authorities may arrest and convict any permanent residents of Singapore even if they have consumed illegal drugs outside of Singapore.

Singapore does not recognize dual nationality beyond the age of 22, and it strictly enforces universal national service for all male citizens and permanent residents. To determine if you have a national service obligation, contact the  Ministry of Defense.

Drunk and disorderly conduct can lead to a SG$1,000 fine or imprisonment. It is illegal to drink alcohol in a public place between 10:30 pm and 7:00 am. The areas of Geylang and Little India are designated as “Liquor Control Zones” where drinking in public places is prohibited all weekend, on public holidays, and on the eve of public holidays.

Public Demonstrations:  Public demonstrations are legal only at Speakers’ Corner in Hong Lim Park. Most outdoor public assemblies require a police permit. Singapore forbids foreign nationals who do not have permanent resident status from participating in or observing permitted public demonstrations, assemblies, and processions at Speakers’ Corner. Penalties may be severe, including large fines and/or imprisonment.

Some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers:  The Singapore Convention of Jehovah’s Witness and the Unification Church are banned by the Singapore government. All written materials published by the International Bible Students Association and the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, publishing arms of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, remain banned. Possible penalties include fines and imprisonment.

See our following webpages for additional details on faith-based traveling:

• Faith-Based Travel Information

International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports

• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  Singapore does not recognize same-sex unions. The Penal Code criminalizes any “act of gross indecency” between two men and prescribes a sentence not exceeding two years for those found guilty under this law. The Singaporean government has stated that it will not enforce this section of the Penal Code but it remains on the statute books. The government restricts foreigners from involvement in public events that champion LGBTI issues. LGBTI individuals may have difficulty gaining employment in certain sectors of the civil service. The  Ministry of Manpower  does not issue dependent passes (work permits) to partners in lesbian and gay relationships, even if legally married in another country.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Singapore does not explicitly prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility include accessible facilities, information, and access to services. Expect accessibility to be common in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, imprisoned, or even caned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

• Possible arrest for jaywalking, littering, or spitting
• Mandatory caning (a form of corporal punishment) for certain vandalism offenses
• Possible imprisonment, caning, or fines for immigration violations
• Possible imprisonment, caning or fines for sex crimes or sexually inappropriate behavior. Lewd, unwanted behavior, including inappropriate comments, messages, or photography toward women who find it offensive may result in fines and imprisonment (“Insulting the modesty of woman”). If there is unwanted physical contact of any kind involved (“Outrage of modesty”, molestation), the laws are gender neutral and punishments generally more severe.
• Severe penalties for drug-related charges, including the death penalty or caning.
• Strict penalties for those who illegally possess or carry firearms, or who commit crimes with firearms

Singaporean authorities may conduct unannounced drug tests and property searches, including upon entry into the country, on foreign citizens who are suspected of consuming or possessing illegal drugs. Police may require you to provide a urine or blood sample on short notice. A positive finding or an unwillingness to participate can lead to a denial of entry into Singapore, detention and/or confiscation of your passport while under an investigation. Singaporean authorities may arrest and convict any permanent residents of Singapore even if they have consumed illegal drugs outside of Singapore.

Singapore does not recognize dual nationality beyond the age of 22, and it strictly enforces universal national service for all male citizens and permanent residents. To determine if you will have a national service obligation, you should contact the Ministry of Defense .

Drunk and disorderly conduct is treated seriously, and can lead to a fine or imprisonment. As of April 1, 2015, it is illegal to drink alcohol in a public place between 10:30 pm and 7:00 am. The areas of Geylang and Little India are designated as “Liquor Control Zones” where drinking in public places is prohibited all weekend, on public holidays, and on the eve of public holidays. Under the Liquor Control Act, you could be fined up to SG$1,000 for consuming alcohol in a public place during prohibited hours.

Public Demonstrations:  Public demonstrations are legal only at Speakers’ Corner in Hong Lim Park and most outdoor public assemblies require a police permit. Singapore amended its laws in April 2017 to forbid foreign nationals who are not permanent residents from observing permitted public demonstrations, assemblies, and processions at Speakers’ Corner. The law does not distinguish between participants and observers, so anyone at Speakers’ Corner could be considered part of an event. Penalties may be severe, including large fines and/or imprisonment.

Faith-Based Travelers:  The Singapore Convention of Jehovah’s Witness and the Unification Church continue to be banned by the Singapore government. All written materials published by the International Bible Students Association and the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, publishing arms of the Jehovah’s Witnesses, remained banned by the government.

See our following webpages for additional Faith-based traveling details:

• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports

LGBTI Travelers:  Singapore does not recognize same-sex unions. The Penal Code criminalizes any “act of gross indecency” between two men and prescribes a sentence not exceeding two years for those found guilty under this law. The Singaporean government has stated that it will not enforce this section of the Penal Code but it remains on the statute books. The government issues permits for open air events that openly champion LGBTI issues on a limited basis but new regulations restrict foreign involvement. LGBTI individuals may have difficulty gaining employment in certain sectors of the civil service. The  Ministry of Manpower  does not issue dependent passes (work permits) to partners in lesbian and gay relationships, even if legally married in another country.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Singapore has established a comprehensive code of standards for barrier-free accessibility, including facilities for persons with physical disabilities, in all new buildings and has mandated the progressive upgrading of older structures. The  Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) is responsible for protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and implementing programs and services in the disability sector.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Good medical care is widely available in Singapore. Doctors and hospitals:

• expect immediate, up-front payment for health services by credit card or cash
• generally do not accept U.S. health insurance
• may require a substantial deposit before admitting you for any major medical treatment.

U.S. Embassy Singapore maintains information on doctors and hospitals here . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

In certain circumstances, the Ministry of Health may access patient medical records without the consent of the patient, and in certain circumstances physicians may be required to report information relating to the diagnosis or treatment without the patient's consent.

Employment pass holders are subject to medical exams and may be denied or deported on medical grounds, including for HIV infection.

For emergency services in Singapore, dial 955.

Ambulance services are widely available. We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority to ensure the medication is legal in Singapore.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available throughout the country.
• Hospitals and doctors may require payment “up front” prior to service or admission.
• Private hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Singapore.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Pharmaceuticals:

• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with little controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy:

• If you are considering traveling to Singapore to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Singapore, subject to complex local regulation. For additional information, visit the Government of Singapore’s website for information on foreigner surrogacy.

Adventure Travel:

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel .

General Health:

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Chikungunya

Use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended mosquito repellents and sleep under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for all travelers even for short stays.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Singapore.

Mosquito-borne diseases: Dengue is active in Singapore and can be monitored at the  Singapore National Environmental Agency . In addition, most neighboring countries are Zika endemic.

Haze: Air pollution from forest fires in neighboring countries occurs intermittently, usually between July and October. Singapore’s National Environmental Agency’s  Haze  provides public updates on conditions.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Singapore has a highly developed, well-maintained road and highway network. Be aware of motorcyclists, who often ignore lane markings.

The  Automobile Association (AA) of Singapore  provides roadside assistance, and the  Land Transport Authority  has rescue vehicles on the road at all hours. In addition, closed circuit cameras monitor all major roads.

Traffic Laws:  Driving is done on the left-hand side of the road. Laws involving traffic rules, vehicle registration, and liability in case of accident are strictly enforced and violations may result in criminal penalties.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation and taxis are abundant, inexpensive, and reliable. Bus stops and trains have panels indicating all routes and stops.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit the website of Singapore’s  national tourist office  and  national authority responsible for road safety .

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Singapore’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Singapore’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Singapore should check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted via to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Singapore . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• Travel info
• Visas and immigration
• Requirements

Visas and immigration requirements

Each passenger must hold a valid passport (and visa(s), if required) to be allowed entry into each destination on the flight itinerary. We cannot be held responsible if a passenger is denied entry and/or deported by any local authority.

To find out the regulations applicable to your journey, use the visa and immigration information application here for the most up-to-date information. 

If you require a visa* or are eligible for an electronic visa, you can apply through our partner, VisaCentral. Please note that VisaCentral service fees are applicable per application and exclusive of GST, Consular fees and third party fees.

* The application service by VisaCentral is available for selected countries.

Verification requirements

Identity screening is required upon arrival at these countries:

Regulations for disinsection

Some countries require the passenger cabins of all aircraft to be treated with insecticides prior to arrival.

Travelling to Bali

From 14 February 2024, international tourists travelling to Bali are required to pay a one-time levy before their arrival, unless exempted.

Find out more

Travelling to New Zealand

From 1 October 2019, all visitors to New Zealand must possess either a valid Visa (for passport holders from non-visa waiver countries) or a NZeTA (for passport holders from visa waiver countries and Australian Permanent Residents). Approval for the NZeTA may take up to 72 hours.

Travelling to Thailand

Currently, visitors to Thailand from 19 countries must obtain a visa on arrival.

Travelling to Vietnam

Visitors who are nationals of countries with visa waiver arrangements (specifically South Korea, Japan, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway, UK (does not apply for British National Overseas) , Italy, Germany, Spain, Belarus and France), are required to apply for a visa if they are returning to Vietnam within 30 days from their last visa-free visit.

Travelling to the UK

Short-term students (studying up to 6 months) from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, the USA, Singapore and South Korea need to see a Border Force officer at passport control to get a short-term student stamp in their passport.

Travelling to the US

Currently, 36 countries are participating in the Visa Waiver Program.

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VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIA NATIONALS

Visa applications are required for Indian citizens / passport holders.

Click here to find out more - >    India

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR OTHER NATIONALS

If your travel document is issued by one of the countries or regions below, you will need a visa to enter Singapore. Click on individual countries or regions below to find out more.

You will also need a visa if you are travelling on:  

• A Refugee travel document. This travel document is subject to assessment of recognition for entry into Singapore
• An Alien's passport. This travel document is subject to assessment of recognition for entry into Singapore
• A  Palestinian Authority passport
• A  temporary passport issued by the United Arab Emirates
• A  Document of Identity issued by Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
• A  Travel Permit issued by Macao Special Administrative Region
• A  PRC Travel Document

SUBMISSION OF DOCUMENTS

You can apply for your visa through any of the authorised visa agents at  Annex A (49.35KB) . Visa applications will be accepted only when all of the following documents are in order:

To apply for an entry visa for business or social visits, you will need the following documents:

• Duly completed Form 14A ( https://www.ica.gov.sg/docs/default-source/ica/forms/form14a.pdf ) signed by you.
• Valid passport with at least six months validity on the date of entry into Singapore
• 2 passport-sized colour photograph taken within the last three months. Please see  Photo Guidelines  for information on photo requirements.

Additional supporting documents (e.g., Form V39A * (Letter of Introduction for Visa Application (LOI)) may be required on a case-by-case basis.

*The local contact must be either a Singapore citizen (SC) or a Singapore permanent resident (PR) who is at least 21 years old. If you are applying for an entry visa for business visit (attending business negotiations or discussions), the local contact must be acting on behalf of the Singapore-registered business entity. LOIs issued by your Embassy/High Commission may also be accepted, if you are unable to secure an LOI from a local contact to support your visa application for social and business visits.

  All documents in Hindi, including official notes, should be translated into English language

VISA PROCESSING TIME 

The processing time for visa applications will generally take 3 to 5 working days (excluding date of submission, weekends and public holidays). Some applications may take longer to process. Visa applicants are not required to buy a flight ticket before applying for an entry visa. Applicants who choose to buy a flight ticket will have to bear the risk of loss if the visa application outcome is unsuccessful or if the approved visa duration falls outside of the applicant’s intended date of travel.

Submission of documents to Authorised Visa Agent ► Agent to submit documents to High Commission online ►Processing time ► Result of Visa

Photo Guidelines

.            Taken within the last  3 months 

.            Clear and in focus, 35mm wide by 45mm high, without any borders 

.             In colour taken against a plain white background without shadows 

.            Avoid white headgear and plain white clothing (headgear worn in accordance with religious or racial customs is acceptable but must not hide any facial features)

.            Full face with the upper shoulders visible, facing forward with eyes open

.            Hair must not cover the eyebrows or the eyes 

.            Even exposure (must not be taken under direct lighting)

.            Spectacle frames must not cover part of the eyes

.            Spectacle lenses must not reflect or glare

Please see  Photo Guidelines  for more information on photo requirements.

The visa processing fee for each application is INR 1800 . Visa processing fees are paid upon application of visas. The processing fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome of the application or if you withdraw the application after submission.

The visa processing fee of INR 1800 is non-refundable. Our Authorised Visa Agents are permitted to charge a service fee of  Rs.650  on  top of the visa processing fee. All fees are paid upon the application of the visa.

IMPORTANT NOTICES

1.    Incomplete forms and/or documents submitted may result in the application being rejected or the processing delayed.

2.    Every application for a visa, including the duration of the visa granted, will be considered on its own merits and subject to approval.

3.    Possession of a visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore. The granting of entry into Singapore is determined by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry. Visitors must also meet entry requirements such as holding a valid passport, sufficient funds for the period of stay in Singapore and confirmed onward/return air ticket (if applicable).

4.    The validity of the visa refers to the period where the holder may seek entry into Singapore. The duration of stay is determined by ICA officers on duty at the respective checkpoints. 

5.     A Singapore visa is not an immigration pass. It is a pre-entry permission for the holder of a valid Singapore visa to travel to, and seek entry, into Singapore. The grant of an immigration pass will be determined by the ICA officers at the point of entry. Possession of a valid visa alone does not guarantee entry into Singapore.

6. A ll foreign visitors arriving in Singapore, with effect from 11 March 2022, will be notified digitally of their Visit Pass (e-Pass) via email. There will not be any endorsement on the passport. The e-Pass notification will indicate the period of stay granted and the last day of stay allowed . Please ensure that you enter a valid email when submitting the  SG Arrival Card .

VISA TRANSFER

Holders with a valid visa of 3 months or more in their old passport may transfer their existing visa to their new passport. Please submit a recent passport-sized colour photograph taken within the last 3 months (Please refer to  Photo Guidelines  for information on photo requirements), together with other supporting documents, to our Authorised Visa Agents who will charge you a processing fee of Rs 650. Please note that transfer applications are only accepted on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.  The processing time for visa transfer is 3 working days after submitting the application to the Authorised Visa Agent, excluding the day of submission, weekends, public holidays or as instructed by the Singapore High Commission.

CHECKING STATUS OF VISA APPLICATION

To check the status of the visa application, please follow the steps below. If you had already been issued with a valid visa but misplaced the copy of your e-Visa, you can also follow the same steps to print a copy of your e-Visa.

Step 1: Go to Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website at  www.ica.gov.sg

Step 2: At ICA homepage, scroll down to section  <e-Services and Forms>  and click on  <Apply entry visa)>

Step 3: Scroll the page down and click on either  <Enquire Application Status>  or  <Enquire Family Application Status>  depend on type of application.

Step 4: Key in your  <Visa Reference Number   ( DELXXXXXXSAXXXXXXXX )   >  and  <Applicant’s Travel Document Number ( XXXXXXXX )>  and click  <Next>

Step 5: If your application is approved, click on  <Print e-Visa>  to get the copy of the e-Visa

Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF)

India nationals who are in transit to or from any third country by air may be eligible for 96-hours Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF). An Indian traveller who is not in possession of a valid Singapore visa and not eligible for VFTF, will not be allowed to enter Singapore.

The following conditions apply for Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF)

General Conditions:

A.                  Transit travellers who satisfy the criteria for VFTF will have to meet the prevailing entry requirements before they are allowed entry into Singapore. Assessment for entry is determined by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry.

B.                  Extension of stay for transit travellers under the VFTF is strictly not allowed.

Travellers who are nationals of India

Indian nationals who are  in transit to or from any third country via Singapore, you may be eligible for the 96-hour VFTF if you meet these requirements:

• You may enter Singapore by any mode of transport but depart only via air or sea. You must have a valid onward air/ferry/cruise ticket departing Singapore within 96 hours; and
• You must have a valid visa*/long-term pass (with a validity of at least 1 month from the date of entry into Singapore under the VFTF) issued by any of the following countries:
• New Zealand
• Switzerland^
• United Kingdom
• United States of America

* A visa is considered valid so long as it is good for entry into one of the eight countries listed above. Travelers with Single Journey Visas (SJV) may still be granted VFTF on the return leg of their journey (i.e. after the SJV is used and no longer valid), but you must:

• Travel directly from the country that issued the SJV, en route through Singapore, back to your home country
• Not have returned to your home country since you last used the SJV.

^ Applies to visas issued by Germany or Switzerland, or Schengen visas that are good for entry to Germany or Switzerland.

Nationals of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Georgia, Turkmenistan and Ukraine

If you are in transit to or from any third country, you may be eligible for the 96-hour VFTF if you have a valid onward air ticket departing within 96 hours. You may enter Singapore by any mode of transport but must depart Singapore by air.

Notice : The High Commission would like to remind members of the public that the High Commission does not process and issue work passes. All applications for work passes have to be submitted by the potential employers in Singapore to the Singapore Ministry of Manpower directly. If you require further clarification or have any doubts, you may contact the Ministry of Manpower at email:  [email protected] .

There have been cases of fraudulent work passes being issued in India.

You may contact the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA) to verify the authenticity of the company registered in Singapore and the Ministry of Manpower for verification of work permits/passes. Their contact details are stated below:

Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA)

Website:                                                          http://www.acra.gov.sg/

Email link:                                                     https://www.acra.gov.sg/compliance/register-of-registrable-controllers/frequently-asked-questions

Quality Service Manager (Overseas):       +65 6591 5324 (Local); +65 6591 5324

Tel no:                                                          0065-62486028

Other contact link:                                      https://www.acra.gov.sg/Contact_Us/

Ministry of Manpower (MOM)

18 Havelock Road

Singapore 059764

Tel: +65 - 6438 5122

Fax: + 65 - 6317 1344

Website : http://www.mom.gov.sg

Email : [email protected]

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

Visa Requirements for Singapore

Marianne Rogerson

December 20, 2022

Here we answer all your frequently asked questions about entry and visa requirements for Singapore.

In this article, we try to answer all your most frequently asked questions when it comes to entry and visa requirements for Singapore.

Please note that this information may be subject to change and it is always a good idea to check the latest entry requirements for Singapore before you travel.

You can check the latest entry requirements on the website of the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the embassy or consulate of Singapore in your country.

Table of Contents

What documents do I need to enter Singapore?

To enter Singapore, you will need a valid passport and a visa, unless you are a citizen of one of the countries that have a visa-waiver agreement with Singapore (see below). 

You may also need to provide evidence of your travel plans, such as a return or onward ticket, and you may be required to show that you have sufficient funds to support your stay in Singapore.

All visitors to Singapore need to fill in an SG Arrival card up to 3 days prior to arrival. This is done online and is free of charge.

In addition, you may be required to show a negative COVID-19 test result or proof of vaccination before you are allowed to enter Singapore.

What is the SG Arrival Card?

The SG Arrival Card is the electronic version of the old paper arrivals card. It includes an Electronic Health Declaration. It is designed to speed up the immigration process at the airport.

It is required for all visitors to Singapore and must be filled in 3 days prior to your date of arrival (including the date of arrival). You can fill it in online here .

This is an electronic form, done online and is free of charge.

If you are travelling in a family or group, one member of the group can submit a “Group Submission” and apply for himself/herself and up to 10 other members. 

The SG Arrival card is NOT a visa. It is required for all visitors to Singapore, regardless of whether you need a visa or not.

Which countries have a visa-waiver agreement with Singapore?

Singapore has visa-waiver agreements with a number of countries, which allows citizens of those countries to enter Singapore for short-term stays without a visa. 

The list of countries that have a visa-waiver agreement with Singapore at the time of writing is as follows:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States

How do you apply for a tourist visa online for Singapore?

If you are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter Singapore, you will need to apply for a visa before you travel.

To apply for a tourist visa online for Singapore, you will need to follow these steps:

• Go to the website of the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) at https://www.ica.gov.sg/ .
• Click on the “Apply for Visa” button.
• Select “Tourist Visa” from the drop-down menu.
• Fill out the online application form. You will need to provide personal information, such as your name, date of birth, and passport details. You will also need to provide information about your travel plans, such as the dates of your trip and the purpose of your visit.
• Upload the required documents. You will need to upload a copy of your passport, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents that may be required, such as a letter of invitation or proof of financial support.
• Pay the visa application fee. You can pay the fee using a credit card or through a bank transfer.
• Submit your application. After you have completed the online application form and uploaded the required documents, you can submit your application.

It is important to note that the visa application process may vary depending on your country of citizenship, and you should check the specific requirements for your country on the ICA website. 

You should also allow sufficient time for your application to be processed before your intended travel date.

How long do you need on your passport to travel to Singapore?

To travel to Singapore, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in Singapore. This means that your passport must have a remaining validity of at least six months when you enter the country.

For example, if you plan to travel to Singapore on January 1, 2023, your passport must be valid until at least July 1, 2023.

Can I travel to Singapore without being vaccinated?

It is currently possible to travel to Singapore without being vaccinated against COVID-19, but you may be required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival and/or quarantine for a period of time.

The entry requirements for Singapore may change due to the ongoing pandemic, and it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest entry requirements before you travel. 

In general, it is always a good idea to be prepared for unexpected disruptions to travel plans and to have a contingency plan in place in case you are required to quarantine or self-isolate while you are abroad.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Singapore?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for travel to Singapore, but it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can provide financial protection in case of unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen luggage.

If you are planning to travel to Singapore, it is a good idea to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself and your belongings in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the coverage and exclusions of your policy before you purchase it.

It is also a good idea to check with your credit card issuer to see if you have any travel insurance coverage as part of your credit card benefits. Some credit card companies offer travel insurance as a benefit to cardholders, so you may already have coverage without realising it.

In addition, you may want to consider purchasing travel insurance that covers any potential disruptions related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, such as trip cancellations or the need to quarantine while you are abroad.

Do I need vaccinations to travel to Singapore?

There are currently no required vaccinations for travel to Singapore. However, it is always a good idea to be up-to-date on your routine vaccinations, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP), and chickenpox.

You should also consult with a healthcare provider or a travel medicine clinic about any recommended or required vaccinations for travel to Singapore based on your health, vaccination history, and the length of your stay.

What are the transit requirements for Singapore?

If you are transiting through Singapore, you may need to meet certain requirements in order to be allowed to enter the country. The specific requirements will depend on the length of your layover, your nationality, and the reason for your transit.

In general, transit passengers who are staying in the airport transit area and do not leave the airport will not need to meet any entry requirements. However, if you need to leave the airport transit area, you may be required to obtain a transit pass or a transit visa.

If you are a citizen of a country that requires a visa to enter Singapore, you may be eligible for a 96-hour visa-free transit facility (VFTF), which will allow you to leave the airport transit area. You can apply for a transit visa online through the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website or at the embassy or consulate of Singapore in your country.

If you are a citizen of a country that does not require a visa to enter Singapore, you may still need to obtain a transit pass in order to leave the airport transit area. You can apply for a transit pass online through the ICA website or at the airport upon arrival.

Did this article answer your questions? Do you have any more questions about entering Singapore? Let us know!

Need more help planning your trip to Singapore? You might also like these articles:

The Best Time to Visit Singapore

• How to get from Singapore Airport to the City

Singapore Weather in January

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Exercise normal safety precautions in Singapore.

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 995 or go to the hospital.

Advice levels

Exercise normal safety precautions  in Singapore.

• Unauthorised public demonstrations are illegal. You need a police permit for any public gatherings, even if you're the only one demonstrating or protesting. Public demonstrations are only allowed at Speakers Corner in Hong Lim Park. If you're not a permanent resident, you need a police permit to join these.
• Violent crime against tourists is rare. Petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing, happens at the airport, in tourist areas and on public transport. Safeguard your belongings.
• Scammers call or send text messages and pretend to be local government officials, banks or telcos. They try to obtain your personal information. Hang up immediately if the caller cannot identify themselves correctly. Delete texts quickly. Verify first by going to official websites or calling the company's hotline.
• Scammers pretend to be landlords on property websites and offer fake rental properties. Research the property and landlord before agreeing to a property rental or sale contract.
• Terrorism is a possible threat. Perpetrators may be self-radicalised individuals. Potential targets include businesses and public areas popular with foreigners. Take official warnings seriously.
• Strong winds and heavy rain happen during the monsoon seasons from December to March and June to September. Follow the advice of local officials.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• The standard of medical facilities and care is similar to or higher than in Australia. The cost is much higher, and payment may be required upfront. Ensure your travel insurance covers medical costs.
• Bringing personal medication may require approval, even in transit. If in doubt, check and seek approval with the Singapore  Health Sciences Authority . 
• Dengue fever is endemic in Singapore. The number of reported cases remains high. Follow the  National Environment Agency  advice to mitigate the risk of transmission.
• Zika virus is a risk. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor. Other insect-borne diseases include chikungunya and Japanese encephalitis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel.
• Smoke haze may occur from June to October. The  National Environment Agency  gives updates and health warnings.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. It's illegal to have drugs in your system. Penalties for the use and carriage of drugs include caning and the mandatory death sentence for some trafficking offences. It is also illegal to have drugs in your system. You can be charged for consuming drugs even if you took them outside Singapore. 
• Singapore has strict laws for 'outrage of modesty' offences or being drunk and disorderly in public. You should avoid any action that could be interpreted as molestation, including inappropriate touching or language. Penalties include jail, fines and caning.
• Singapore has strict laws and penalties for acts that are legal or minor offences in Australia. These include smoking in public places or restaurants, spitting, importing or chewing gum, chewing tobacco, littering and jaywalking.
• Strict laws control alcohol, e-cigarettes and vaporisers. It's illegal to drink in public between 10:30pm and 7am or in Liquor Control Zones. Importing vaporisers, including for your own use, is also illegal.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph official buildings where there are signs banning photos.
• Penalties are severe for crimes that affect social, racial or ethnic harmony. These include racial insults and promoting ill will and hostility between different races or classes. Apply for a Miscellaneous Work Pass from the Ministry of Manpower if you want to speak publicly on racial, communal, religious or political topics.

Same-sex acts are no longer illegal. You should be aware there are local sensitivities, and behaviour standards are conservative. Public displays of affection may offend.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Foreign short-term visitors holding passports or travel documents issued by a  visa-required country  must apply for an entry visa.
• Before arriving in Singapore, you must complete an electronic  Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) . There is no charge for this. You may need to present your SGAC acknowledgment email with supporting documentation to the airlines at check-in.
• Do not bring medicinal cannabis to Singapore, even during transit. If you take prescribed medicinal cannabis, you should contact the Singapore Health Science Authority to review your situation.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian High Commission in Singapore .

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, demonstrations and protests.

Unauthorised public demonstrations are illegal.

You need a police permit for:

• a public gathering to which the public has been invited, even if you are the only one demonstrating or protesting
• a public procession of 2 or more people to which the public has been invited

Public demonstrations are only allowed at Speakers Corner in Hong Lim Park. Non-permanent residents need a permit to join any activities at Speakers Corner. Penalties can be severe.

More information:

• Singapore Police Force
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime against tourists is rare.

Pickpocketing and street theft happens at the airport, tourist destinations, hotels and on public transport.

Watch your belongings, especially in tourist areas and on public transport.

Scams and fraud

Impersonation scams happen regularly.

Scammers are using automated voice calls or text messages or impersonating local government officials (e.g. from the Ministry of Health or Immigration & Checkpoints Authority), bank or telco staff. Calls ask for personal details and often use scare tactics (such as claiming you have committed an offence or have account issues). You should hang up immediately if the caller cannot identify themselves correctly. Always verify the information or request through official websites or call the company/department hotline before offering any personal information. Delete text messages quickly. 

Property rental  scams  happen.

Con artists pretend to be landlords on property websites and offer fake rental properties.

To protect yourself from property scams:

• research the property and landlord before agreeing to a property rental or purchase contract. See the  Singapore Land Authority  for information.
• don't make large payments in cash
• only use accredited property agents
• make sure landlords and agents are present when you sign tenancy documents

Be wary of dishonest retailers of mobile phones, electrical goods and cameras.

Information about known scams is available on the  Scam Alert website .

If you live in Singapore, go to the  Consumers Association of Singapore  to lodge a complaint.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information: 

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information:  

• Kidnapping 

Terrorist attacks could happen in Singapore. Attacks could be random and may affect places that Westerners frequent. 

Singapore has enhanced security measures, including:

• strong border controls
• security and police surveillance
• restrictions on access to some public venues

Ministers have issued public warnings about the seriousness of the terrorist threat.

The Singapore government has developed the  SG Secure app to help prevent terrorist incidents and alert people to security or other threats. 

Possible terrorist targets include businesses and public areas popular with travellers. 

These include:

• hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars
• places of worship
• outdoor events and markets
• tourist areas
• transport hubs, such as train stations
• places associated with the Singapore Government

To stay safe:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the media for new threats
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

• Terrorist threats

Climate and natural disasters

Singapore experiences  severe weather , including severe rainstorms. 

The monsoon seasons are from December to March and June to September. Strong winds and heavy rain happen.

If there's a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• monitor local media, weather reports and the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• check with tour operators before travelling to affected areas

Earthquakes in other countries in the region can affect Singapore.

Singapore is a major flight hub. Natural disasters in other parts of the world may affect flights. These include volcanic ash plumes.

Contact your airline or travel agent for flight updates.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are. 

Medical care is expensive. If you're not insured, you may find yourself paying thousands of dollars for medical treatment. 

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave. 

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Singapore. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Strict rules control substances in personal medication. Check the  Singapore Health Sciences Authority  for a list of controlled substances. It also explains how to apply for approval at least 10 working days before you arrive.

You don't need pre-approval if you don't leave the airport transit zone (without clearing Singapore immigration). Be aware that prohibited substances, such as chewing gum, cannabis and products containing cannabis extracts, are not allowed to be brought with you, even if you are staying in the airport transit zone. If you take prescribed medicinal cannabis, you should contact the Singapore Health Science Authority to review your situation. 

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Regulations for bringing personal medications into Singapore

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

There is some spread of  Zika virus. There's no vaccination for it.

If you're pregnant:

• discuss any travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

Outbreaks of other insect-borne illnesses can happen. These include:

• chikungunya
• Japanese encephalitis

The risk of insect-borne illnesses increases during the wetter months, from December to March and June to September. Follow the  National Environment Agency's  advice for preventing and identifying dengue and Zika infection. Dengue fever is endemic in Singapore, and the number of reported cases remains high.

Areas are regularly 'fogged' to stop the spread of insect-borne illnesses. The 'fog' includes toxic chemicals. Don't travel to areas straight after fogging.

To protect yourself against illness:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel
• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Smoke haze happens from June to October.

Check for haze and any health warnings the Singapore Government issues. Get medical advice if needed.

Singapore's  National Environment Agency  gives updates when smoke haze happens. It also has information about public health issues.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities and care is similar to or higher than Australia.

The cost of medical services is much higher.

Many places will want up-front payment or confirmed payment from your insurer before they provide treatment.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

If you're arrested, authorities may detain you while police investigate. You may be detained for up to 48 hours. During this period, you won't be allowed to speak with anyone, not even a lawyer. 

Police confiscate your passport if you're under investigation. There is no set timeline for investigations and can take several months. You won't be allowed to leave Singapore. You can't get a replacement passport until legal matters are settled. You must be able to support yourself financially during this time.

Drugs are illegal in Singapore. The penalties for use and possession are severe, including the death penalty. It's illegal to have drugs in your system. This includes traces being found in blood and urine tests. 

While some destinations may have legalised drug use, you can be charged for consuming drugs even if you took them outside Singapore.

Do not bring medicinal cannabis to Singapore, even during transit. If you take prescribed medicinal cannabis, you should contact the Singapore Health Science Authorit y to review your situation. 

Severe penalties for drug offences include the death sentence and caning.

• Carrying or using drugs

Serious crimes

Serious crimes, such as murder, abduction and weapons offences, can attract the death penalty.

Corporal punishment includes caning. This is a penalty for crimes including:

• outrage of modesty
• visa offences

Singapore has strict laws for 'outrage of modesty' cases. You should avoid any action that could be interpreted as molestation. This includes:

• inappropriate touching or grabbing (whether drunk or not)
• inappropriate language

Penalties include jail, fines, and caning.

Drunk and disorderly conduct in public is an offence.

You could be arrested for:

• being found drunk in public
• fighting and becoming a nuisance in public
• resisting arrest, assaulting, or hurting a public servant (this includes police and taxi drivers)
• drinking beyond the prescribed hours and in the allowed areas.

Minor crimes

Singapore has strict laws and penalties for things that are legal or are minor offences in Australia.

• smoking in public places or indoor restaurants
• importing or chewing gum
• chewing tobacco

Racial crimes

Penalties are severe for crimes that affect social, racial or ethnic harmony. These include racial insults and promoting ill-will and hostility between different races or classes.

If you want to speak publicly on racial, communal, religious or political topics, you must apply for a Miscellaneous Work Pass from the  Ministry of Manpower .

Alcohol and vaporiser laws

Serious penalties, including detention or jail, apply for these illegal activities: 

• being drunk, behaving badly or using offensive language during a flight
• importing vaporisers, such as e-cigarettes, e-pipes, e-cigars, and refills into Singapore, including for your own use
• driving under the influence of alcohol
• drinking alcohol in public places between 10:30pm and 7am
• drinking alcohol in a Liquor Control Zone

Liquor control zones include specified areas in Geylang and Little India. Additional restrictions apply on weekends and public holidays.

Copyrighted and prohibited material

Material that is legal in Australia may be illegal in Singapore. Serious penalties apply, including detention or jail, for bringing:

• pirated copyright material
• printed and recorded material considered obscene or prohibited

Serious penalties, including detention or imprisonment, apply for these illegal activities:

• illegal immigration
• overstaying your visa
• shoplifting and theft
• being caught with weapons, military souvenirs, replica weapons or ammunition, including empty cartridges
• working without a valid work pass — (see ' Travel ')
• taking photos of official buildings where there are signs banning photos

If you're  working in Singapore , your work pass may be cancelled if you break the law.

• Ministry of Home Affairs  
• Singapore Customs

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law

Local customs

Behaviour standards are conservative.

Public displays of affection may offend.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

• Dual nationals

Singapore doesn't recognise dual nationality for people aged over 21 years.

Male citizens and permanent residents between the ages of 16 and 50 must do 2 years of national service. They must also do further training after completing national service.

If you're a dual citizen or want permanent residency, know the national service requirements before deciding to travel to, transit or live in Singapore. Failure to complete national service may result in penalties, including custodial sentences.

• Singapore Ministry of Defence
• Immigration and Checkpoints Authority

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Foreign short-term visitors holding passports or travel documents issued by a visa-required country must apply for an entry visa.

For work or study, you'll need to apply for a visa before you travel. Check work visa information with the  Ministry of Manpower .

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Singapore  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

At immigration, you may have to show:

• a passport with at least 6 months validity
• evidence of enough funds for your intended stay
• a confirmed onward or return flight ticket
• a valid visa to enter your next destination
• a yellow fever vaccination certificate, if needed

Border measures

On arrival in Singapore, you'll need to show:

• your completed  Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)  (there is no charge for the SGAC). There are scam websites that ask for payment. Make sure you use the official ICA website).

More information is available on the  ICA | Entering, Transiting and Departing website .

Transit through Singapore

Singapore is open to all transit travellers. See Changi Airport website for more information on transiting.

Do not bring medicinal cannabis to Singapore, even during transit. If you take prescribed medicinal cannabis, you should contact the Singapore Health Science Authority to review your situation. 

Check flight schedules directly with your airline. Confirm your arrangements with your airline or travel agent before travelling.

Expect to be screened during your transit in Singapore. You may be security screened when boarding your flight to Singapore and before boarding your connecting flight. See  Changi Airport website for further information on transit requirements.

Check the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority website or Changi Airport for the latest advice.

Other formalities

You need to scan your thumbprints each time you arrive and depart Singapore. Children aged younger than 6 years don't need to.

If you register your thumbprints on BioScreen at the immigration counter on arrival, you can use the self-clearance system for departure.

If you're carrying medication that's controlled in Singapore, you'll need an import permit to show on arrival. (See ' Health ')

Some countries, including Singapore, won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the  nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The official currency is the Singapore Dollar (SGD).

You can easily exchange Australian dollars for SGD in Singapore.

You must declare amounts over SGD20,000 or the same amount in foreign currency on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

ATMs are available across the country. Hotels, restaurants and shops accept international credit cards.

• The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) 

Local travel

Driving permit.

To drive, you must be at least 18 years old and have an Australian driver's licence and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

If you stay longer than 12 months, you'll need a Singaporean licence.

If you're a permanent resident, get a Singaporean licence within 3 months of getting residency.

• Singapore Government

Road travel

Road conditions and driving practices are similar to those found in Australian capital cities.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

Safe, metered taxis are available from official taxi ranks.

Rideshare services are legal and widely used.

Public transport

Singapore's efficient rail network  Mass Rapid Transit (SMRT)  runs throughout the island between 5:30am and midnight.

There's also a large network of public and private bus services.

• SBS Transit
• Transport and getting around safely

Piracy  occurs in the coastal areas around Singapore.

If you're  travelling by boat , take safety precautions.

• Going on a cruise
• International Maritime Bureau

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Singapore's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

• Air travel ​​

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Singapore.

Australian High Commission, Singapore

25 Napier Road Singapore 258507  Phone: (+65) 6836 4100  Website:  singapore.highcommission.gov.au Email:  [email protected] Facebook:  Australia in Singapore X: @AusHCSG  

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Singapore?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

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EU tightens visa requirements for Ethiopians over a lack of government cooperation on deportations

BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union announced on Monday that it is tightening visa requirements for people from Ethiopia, accusing the government there of a failure to cooperate in taking back citizens found to be living illegally in the 27-nation bloc.

EU headquarters said the time it takes to process visas for Ethiopian nationals will triple from 15 to 45 days. EU countries will no longer be permitted to waive requirements for certain paperwork or issue multiple-entry visas. Ethiopian diplomats and officials will now have to pay for travel visas.

The EU’s executive arm, the European Commission, has vowed to use visa rules as a way of applying pressure on countries to cooperate in deportation procedures. Only around one in three people ordered to depart the EU ever actually leave.

The Commission says the action is being taken due to “a lack of response from the Ethiopian authorities with regard to readmission requests,” as well as shortcomings with “the organization of both voluntary and non-voluntary return operations,” which is the way the EU describes deportation.

Most people staying illegally in the EU arrive without breaking any rules via airports or ports but never go home once their visas expire, outnumbering those who arrive on unseaworthy boats or travel overland in search of refuge, jobs or better lives in Europe.

Ethiopia is mired in conflict and a humanitarian crisis. The two-year conflict in the northern Tigray region , which ended with a peace deal in November 2022, left most of the region’s population of 6 million relying on international help.

The country is both a major place of origin and transit for migrants and refugees in the Horn of Africa region, often serving as a hub for people from Eritrea and Somalia aiming to reach Europe or other northern parts of the African continent.

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To revitalise inbound tourism, China must enhance travel convenience for foreign visitors, says an Edith Cowan University academic.

JOONDALUP, Australia: China’s tourism industry has faced significant challenges since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2019, China welcomed 97.7 million foreign visitors. But in 2023, this plummeted to 35.5 million, representing less than 40 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.

The sluggish recovery of China’s inbound tourism has prompted widespread concern across government, industry, academia and the media. Leading tourism research journals in China have published dedicated articles discussing the factors influencing China’s inbound tourism recovery.

To address this trend, the Chinese government has implemented several policy measures. In July 2023, China reinstated its 15-day visa-free travel policy for visitors from Singapore and Brunei.

In November 2023, this policy was extended to ordinary passport holders from France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia.

On Mar 7, China expanded its 15-day visa-free policy to include six additional European countries - Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium and Luxembourg.

IMPORTANCE OF INBOUND TOURISM FOR CHINA

Inbound tourism holds significant importance for China, particularly amid slowing economic growth. Tourism was prioritised during the early stages of China’s reform and opening up era, valued for its potential to generate much-needed foreign exchange.

But as China amassed substantial foreign exchange reserves through rapid development and entry into the World Trade Organization, the reliance on inbound tourism for foreign exchange earnings diminished over time.

Amid the challenges confronting China’s economy in 2024, inbound tourism has emerged as an avenue for bolstering economic growth. Drawing international tourists to spend in China translates to a net export of services, injecting added value into the nation’s economic ecosystem.

Compared to ordinary goods exports, inbound tourism holds the potential for greater benefits due to its multiplier effect. When international tourists spend money, their consumption creates a chain reaction, stimulating job creation and further expenditure.

Visa-free policies are a practical tool for facilitating tourist flows and trade exchanges between nations. China’s current visa-free policies are anticipated to incentivise more business and leisure travellers to visit China. Still, further efforts are necessary to rejuvenate China’s inbound tourism sector.

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Eliminating barriers for foreign tourists in china.

Enhancing travel convenience is imperative to address the needs of foreign tourists. While China has made significant strides in developing advanced technologies and transportation infrastructure for domestic travel, foreign visitors often encounter obstacles while navigating in the country.

For instance, booking high-speed train tickets or entry tickets to popular tourist attractions necessitates the use of WeChat’s embedded program. Many establishments exclusively accept WeChat Pay or AliPay, leaving foreign tourists in a predicament if they rely solely on cash or credit cards. Many hotels in China are also not allowed to accommodate foreign tourists.

Eliminating barriers for foreign tourists to travel in China presents enhanced business opportunities for Chinese tourism-related enterprises. While Chinese consumers remain the primary market for most of these businesses, delivering seamless services to foreign clientele could further strengthen their competitive edge.

A case in point is the Chinese online travel company Ctrip - which initially emulated Travelocity’s business model but has since expanded its operations globally - establishing itself as a prominent international online travel business.

Technological advancements have the potential to mitigate technical barriers to foreigners’ travel in China without incurring substantial costs.

Yet, addressing structural and entrenched ideological barriers may be more challenging. The COVID-19 pandemic may have prompted the Chinese government and tourism operators in China to adopt a more inward-looking approach, prioritising the needs of their citizens.

The shifting geopolitical landscape globally also plays a role in the challenges facing China’s inbound tourism. According to a 2023 survey by the Pew Research Centre, most individuals in Western nations hold unfavourable views towards China. The Chinese government’s tightening grip on societal regulations could potentially cause discomfort for foreign travellers in China.

This increased control may lead to unnecessary disruptions in international events like academic conferences and exchanges, due to the formalities and documentation mandated by the government.

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Look beyond national borders.

The time has come to look beyond national borders when contemplating tourism. The world has reopened, albeit with a transformed landscape compared to before the COVID-19-pandemic.

The Chinese government’s implementation of visa-free policies should be applauded - but to meaningfully revitalise its inbound tourism, concerted efforts are required to enhance convenience for foreign visitors before, during and after their travels to China.

To attract more foreign visitors, Chinese businesses must meet the needs of both domestic and international tourists. While transitioning to a cashless society is desirable, it should not exacerbate the digital divide among Chinese citizens or alienate international visitors.

It is imperative to implement more user-friendly alternative payment methods that cater to the preferences of foreign travellers, such as accepting major credit cards or other preferred payment options.

The process of passing through transport entry or exit points using passport scanning should be as seamless as tapping a Chinese identification card. Leveraging advancements in AI technology and multiple language mobile apps should also be developed to facilitate international tourists’ travel bookings in China.

China has demonstrated innovation across various technological fronts. This ingenuity should be harnessed to address the needs of international tourists, ultimately reversing the current decline in inbound tourism and bolstering the country’s tourism sector.

Sam Huang is Professor of Tourism and Services Marketing and Head of the Centre for Tourism Research in the School of Business and Law at Edith Cowan University, Australia. This commentary first appeared on East Asia Forum.

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