I recently travelled to Singapore and was impressed by how seamless the entry process felt once I knew what to expect. To help fellow travellers, I’ve put together this detailed guide so you can arrive feeling prepared.

Singapore is incredibly efficient when it comes to border control, with clear regulations set by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Ministry of Health (MOH). The requirements vary depending on your passport, visa eligibility, health checks, and other immigration formalities. Although the COVID-19 rules are no longer in place, certain health measures, such as Yellow Fever vaccination proof, are still required if you are arriving from affected regions.

If you're travelling to Singapore, here are the entry requirements to remember:

Passport Validity

To be allowed entry into Singapore, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. This requirement applies to all foreign visitors and is one of the first checks made by immigration officers. A passport nearing expiry can lead to denial of entry, even if you have a valid visa. Ensuring your passport has enough validity is essential to avoid last-minute disruptions to your travel plans.

Visa Requirements

Whether you need a visa to enter Singapore depends entirely on your nationality and the type of passport you hold. Citizens of many countries are granted visa-free entry for a limited period, often between 30 and 90 days, making short-term visits simple. However, travellers from certain countries must apply for a visa in advance.

For instance, Indian nationals holding ordinary passports are required to obtain a valid visa before their trip. On the other hand, individuals holding diplomatic, official, or service passports may be exempt from this rule, depending on the terms of bilateral agreements. It is essential to verify your eligibility on the official ICA website or through the nearest Singapore mission well in advance of travel, as entry rules are strictly enforced and vary based on nationality and passport category.

SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

Every traveller must complete the SG Arrival Card within three days prior to arrival in Singapore. The form captures your personal details, travel plans, and a short health declaration. It is important to note that the SGAC is not a visa; it’s simply a required declaration for entry.

Here’s everything you need to know about SGAC.

Visit Pass / Immigration Clearance

Having a valid visa does not automatically guarantee you entry into Singapore. When you arrive at the airport or any land and sea checkpoint, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers will review your documents, ask you questions about your visit, and then make the final decision.

If you are allowed entry, the officer will issue a Visit Pass, also called an e-Pass, which is an electronic record linked to your passport. This Visit Pass states the exact number of days you are permitted to stay in Singapore. For many travellers, this can range from 30 days to 90 days, depending on nationality and the purpose of the visit.

It is important to remember that the Visit Pass is separate from the visa. While a visa only gives you permission to travel to Singapore and request entry, the Visit Pass is what actually allows you to remain in the country. For example, your visa might be valid for multiple entries over two years, but each time you arrive, your length of stay is determined by the Visit Pass issued at immigration.

Overstaying beyond the expiry date of your Visit Pass is a serious offence in Singapore and can result in fines, imprisonment, or being barred from future entry. If you need to stay longer, you must apply for an extension online through the ICA’s e-service before your Visit Pass expires.

Proof of Onward Travel and Sufficient Funds

For short-term visitors, immigration officers may also ask for proof of a return or onward ticket, along with evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Singapore. Having these documents handy ensures a smoother entry process.

Customs Declaration

• If you are carrying goods that exceed Singapore’s GST relief or duty-free allowance, you must declare them and pay the tax using the Customs@SG web application before you arrive.

• Do not bring in any prohibited items. Singapore has strict rules on what you can and cannot carry.

• If you have dutiable, controlled, or prohibited items, use the Red Channel at customs to make your declaration.

CBNI (Currency and Bearer Negotiable Instruments) Declaration

• If you are entering Singapore with cash or bearer negotiable instruments worth more than S$20,000 (or the equivalent value in a foreign currency), you are required to declare them.

• This declaration helps Singapore track large movements of money and prevent illegal activities.

• The declaration can be made at the checkpoints, and it is always better to be upfront to avoid penalties.

Public Health & Vaccination Requirements

These have undergone significant changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Here is the current status:

• As of 13 February 2023, all COVID-19-related entry restrictions (vaccination proof, pre-departure test, on-arrival test, quarantine/Stay-Home Notice) have been removed for travellers, regardless of vaccination status.

• However, travellers must submit the SG Arrival Card (with health declaration) within 3 days before arrival.

• Yellow Fever vaccination: if you have visited or are coming from a country with risk of Yellow Fever, you may need to show a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. If you don't have it, there may be quarantine requirements in place.

Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) Entry Requirements

The Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) in Singapore allows eligible travellers to explore the city briefly while en route to a third country, without the need to apply for a full Singapore visa. It is especially useful for passengers with long layovers who want to make the most of their time at Changi Airport. 

• Travel Conditions: You must be transiting through Singapore Changi Airport with a confirmed onward flight to a third country within 96 hours (4 days) of arrival.

• Valid Visa or Long-Term Pass: To qualify, you need a valid visa or long-term pass (such as work, study, or residence) for countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, or Schengen states.

Here’s a detailed article on the Singapore Transit Visa, for everything that you need to know.

Singapore makes travelling easy when you know what to expect, and understanding its entry requirements is the first step to a smooth journey. From passport checks and visa rules to the SG Arrival Card and customs declarations, being prepared ensures you breeze through immigration without stress.

Whether it’s a short stopover, a transit under the VFTF, or a longer stay to explore the city, following these steps will make your arrival seamless. With everything in order, you can focus entirely on experiencing the energy, culture, and beauty that make Singapore such a remarkable destination.