Singapore

The Land of Gardens
and Glamour

Flag of Singapore

Singapore, a city-state in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its modern skyline, efficient infrastructure, and multicultural society. Home to iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the historic districts of Chinatown and Little India, Singapore offers a unique blend of futuristic architecture and preserved heritage. The country's compact geography features lush green spaces, including the UNESCO-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens, amidst its urban landscape.

Singaporean culture is a vibrant mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences, reflected in its diverse cuisine featuring dishes like chili crab, laksa, and chicken rice. Known for its cleanliness, world-class shopping, and as a global financial hub, Singapore presents a captivating destination that combines cutting-edge innovation with rich cultural traditions and tropical charm.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Singapore.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Singapore.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from over 160 nations (e.g., US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, Japan) can enter Singapore with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes (30 days for some nationalities, e.g., India, China, with an electronic arrival card).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from a limited number of nations (e.g., Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria) must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Singapore through a Singapore embassy or consulate.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality, though they may facilitate visa applications if required.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry unless from a visa-exempt country.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter Singapore using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 90 days within 180 days (visitor visa, typically issued as visa on arrival or e-Visa for non-exempt countries). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year; extendable for another 30-90 days with approval from the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days (e.g., work, study). Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit (e.g., Employment Pass, Student Pass) with approval from ICA or the Ministry of Manpower.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period (30 days for some nationalities), extendable with ICA approval.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas require sponsorship from a Singapore employer. All visitors must submit a Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) online within 3 days prior to arrival.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as Singapore may reintroduce measures like mandatory health declarations or vaccination proof via the TraceTogether app.
Toll

Driving in Singapore

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Singapore uses an electronic toll system rather than traditional toll roads. Key tolled routes include:
    • Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) Gantries: Located on major roads and expressways (e.g., Central Expressway (CTE), Orchard Road) to manage congestion.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type, time of day, and location. For example, a standard car may pay SGD 0.50-6.00 per ERP gantry during peak hours. For the most current rates, visit the Land Transport Authority website: https://www.lta.gov.sg/
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Not accepted; ERP is cashless.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Linked to an In-Vehicle Unit (IU) for automatic deductions.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: Mandatory ERP system uses an IU device with a stored-value card (e.g., NETS FlashPay, EZ-Link); top-ups available at service stations or online via https://www.lta.gov.sg/.

Driving in Singapore

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40-50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60-70 km/h
    • Highways: 90 km/h (e.g., CTE, Pan-Island Expressway (PIE))
  • Road conditions are excellent; Singapore’s roads are well-maintained and highly organized, with minimal rural variation due to its urbanized nature.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, valid for up to 1 year. A Singapore driving license is required for stays longer than 12 months.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Singapore does not use a traditional vignette system; ERP charges are per-use via electronic gantries rather than a flat fee.
  • Road Safety: Driving is safe but requires vigilance due to heavy traffic, strict enforcement, and high fines for violations (e.g., speeding, illegal parking). Night driving is safe due to excellent lighting and infrastructure.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is highly reliable; apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Citymapper work well across the city-state. Physical maps are rarely needed due to compact size and signage.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for police, 995 for ambulance or fire.

Useful Links

Singapore Currency

The official currency of Singapore is the Singapore Dollar (SGD).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 2, 5, 10, 50, 100, 1,000 SGD
  • Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 cents; 1 SGD
  • Symbol: S$ (often written as SGD)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports (e.g., Changi Airport), and authorized money changers in major areas like Orchard Road and Chinatown.
  • ATMs are widely available across Singapore for direct SGD withdrawals; most accept international cards.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred for small transactions, especially at hawker centres and smaller shops.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, malls, and larger establishments; contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay, NETS) are ubiquitous.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases at hawker centres or rural areas (e.g., Pulau Ubin), though digital payments dominate in urban zones.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the SGD fluctuates against major currencies (e.g., 1 USD ≈ 1.34 SGD as of early 2025).
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Monetary Authority of Singapore website: https://www.mas.gov.sg/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Singapore

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Singapore, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences or the death penalty for trafficking. Even small quantities can lead to severe charges; drug tests may be conducted at entry.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted (legal drinking age is 19); public intoxication can lead to fines, and drinking in public is restricted from 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM in designated zones.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in many outdoor areas (e.g., parks, bus stops); vaping is illegal, with confiscation and fines for possession.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect multi-ethnic traditions (Malay, Chinese, Indian); avoid discussing race, religion, or politics (e.g., government policies). Dress modestly at religious sites (e.g., Sultan Mosque, Sri Mariamman Temple).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are technically illegal under Section 377A, though rarely enforced; same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention but are not typically penalized.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings (e.g., Istana), and critical infrastructure (e.g., ports). Always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially at cultural events.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits (tax-free only if arriving from outside ASEAN and staying over 48 hours).
  • Tobacco: None permitted (all tobacco must be declared and taxed; importing chewing tobacco is banned).
  • Cash: Declare amounts over SGD 20,000 (approximately USD 15,000 or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, chewing gum (except medicinal), pornography, and materials deemed offensive to Singapore’s multi-ethnic society.
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Changi Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Singapore Tourism Board or the Consumers Association of Singapore.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Sentosa, East Coast Park) must allow free access within 5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated and well-implemented at major beaches.

Key Resources

Singapore Travel Safety

Singapore is exceptionally safe for travellers, with very low crime rates, modern infrastructure, and a reputation for orderliness. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Singapore.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Bugis Street) or tourist sites (e.g., Marina Bay Sands). Violent crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Singapore is considered one of the safest places globally, with locals often helpful. Female travelers face minimal risks but should avoid isolated areas at night (e.g., quieter parks), though incidents are rare.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving is safe but requires vigilance due to heavy traffic and strict enforcement of rules (e.g., ERP zones, speed cameras).
    • Night driving is safe due to excellent lighting and road conditions throughout the city-state.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory and strictly enforced.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe to drink across Singapore; bottled water is widely available as an option.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; hawker food (e.g., chicken rice, laksa) is safe if from licensed stalls.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for extended stays near wildlife).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country (certificate checked at entry).
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against dengue, common in urban areas during rainy seasons (May-September, November-February).
  • Altitude Sickness: Not applicable; Singapore is flat, with its highest point (Bukit Timah Hill) at 163.6 meters.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: World-class facilities like Singapore General Hospital and Mount Elizabeth Hospital offer excellent care. Rural areas are minimal due to Singapore’s urban nature, with clinics widely available.
  • Pharmacies: Ubiquitous in shopping malls and residential areas; medications are easily accessible.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, though rarely needed due to top-tier local healthcare.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 999 (police), 995 (ambulance/fire).
  • Ambulance: 995 | Fire: 995 | Police: 999.
  • Tourist Police (Singapore): +65 1800-736-2000.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Renting a car is unnecessary for most visitors due to excellent public transport (MRT, buses); if driving, ensure an IU for ERP payments. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use designated trails in nature reserves (e.g., MacRitchie Reservoir); risks are minimal, but stay on paths to avoid fines or wildlife (e.g., monkeys).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect multi-religious customs; avoid littering or jaywalking, as fines are steep (e.g., SGD 500 for littering). Dress modestly at religious sites like Thian Hock Keng Temple.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, though haze from regional fires (June-October) can occur; monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Singapore

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