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Visa & Entry

Visa & Entry

Singapore

Required Documents

Your passport must remain valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Singapore. Present your visa if your nationality requires one. Carry a confirmed onward or return ticket; immigration officials may ask to see this as proof of your intent to leave Singapore. You may need to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay. All travelers, including Singapore citizens, must submit a SG Arrival Card (SGAC) with a health declaration. Complete this electronic submission within three days before your arrival via the official ICA website or the MyICA Mobile app. This is a mandatory step for all visitors.

Carry physical and digital copies of all your essential documents, including your passport, visa, flight confirmations, and SG Arrival Card submission confirmation. Singapore does not charge a general entry fee for tourists. Upon arrival at Changi Airport or other checkpoints, present your passport and, if applicable, your visa. Automated immigration clearance (eIACS) is available for eligible foreign visitors, which speeds up the process. You may need to show your onward or return ticket and proof of sufficient funds if asked. General tourism activities on Sentosa Island or in mainland Singapore do not typically call for special permits. Most attractions and public spaces are freely accessible once you complete immigration.

Documentation Checklist

  • Passport valid for 6 months beyond entry date.
  • Visa (if required) and SG Arrival Card submission confirmation.
  • Confirmed onward or return flight ticket.
  • Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

Health-Related Entry

You must submit a health declaration via the SG Arrival Card system within three days prior to arrival. Singapore does not have routine vaccination requirements for entry unless you arrive from certain yellow fever-endemic countries. In such cases, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is present. Travel insurance with medical coverage is highly recommended. It offers protection against unforeseen medical emergencies or other travel disruptions. Companies like World Nomads, SafetyWing, and Insubuy are options for travel insurance.

Always refer to the official Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website for the latest and most accurate information on visa and entry requirements. Policies can change.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever if from risk country.

Yellow Fever Certificate

Needed if arriving within 6 days from a country with yellow fever transmission risk.

No Routine Vaccinations

Unless from specific risk areas, no general vaccination required for entry.

Recommended Vaccinations

Consult your doctor before travel.

Standard Recommendations

MMR, DTP, Varicella, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid are often suggested.

Malaria Risk

Malaria is not a risk in Singapore. Dengue fever is endemic, so mosquito prevention is important.

Health Declaration

Mandatory SG Arrival Card.

SG Arrival Card Submission

All travelers must submit this electronically within three days before arrival.

Insurance Suggestion

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for medical coverage and trip disruptions.

Travel Insurance

Why Travel Insurance?

It is strongly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability. Ensure your policy covers any adventure activities you plan to undertake, like bungy jumping or zip-lining on Sentosa. Several providers cater to different traveler types. World Nomads is for adventurous travelers. SafetyWing designs policies for digital nomads and remote teams. Insubuy specializes in medical and travel-related coverage for foreigners visiting the United States, but also has general travel options.

Flight Compensation

AirHelp helps passengers receive compensation for delayed or canceled flights. This service handles claims for disruptions, potentially securing up to €600. It supports passengers in asserting their rights regarding flight issues, a useful backup for unexpected travel problems.

Insurance Coverage Areas

  • Medical Emergencies:

    Coverage for unforeseen health issues or accidents during your trip.

  • Trip Cancellation/Interruption:

    Financial protection if your trip is cut short or canceled due to covered reasons.

  • Lost Luggage:

    Reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage.

  • Personal Liability:

    Protection against claims if you accidentally cause injury or damage to others.

  • Adventure Activities:

    Specific coverage for high-risk activities like bungy jumping or zip-lining, if planned.

Important Considerations

  • Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including death. Do not engage with illegal drugs in any form.
  • Haze (June-October) can be a concern. On severe days, local authorities may suggest face masks.
  • Lightning is frequent during thunderstorms; seek shelter indoors.

Information

Singapore maintains high standards of public health and safety. It ranks among the safest countries globally with very low crime rates. Sentosa Island is specifically safe, with a visible security presence.

Health & Safety

Singapore provides excellent public and private healthcare facilities. Reputable hospitals include Singapore General Hospital, Mount Elizabeth Hospital, and Gleneagles Hospital. Polyclinics (government-subsidized) and private clinics are widely available for non-emergency medical needs.

Common Health Concerns

High temperatures and humidity can lead to heat-related illnesses. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Wear light clothing, seek shade regularly, and avoid strenuous activity during midday. Tap water in Singapore is safe to drink. Use High SPF sunscreen (at least SPF 30). Wear a broad-brimmed hat and Sunglasses. Eating at hawker centers is generally safe; choose stalls with high turnover for freshly cooked food. Clean and disinfect wounds promptly due to the humid environment.

Preventative Measures

  • Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
  • Use sunscreen and wear a hat for sun protection.
  • Use Mosquito repellent for dengue prevention.
  • Practice good hygiene for food and water safety.

Healthcare Access

Singapore has high standards for public and private healthcare. Hospitals and clinics are widely available. For emergencies, dial 995 for ambulance or fire, and 999 for police. Singapore has stringent food safety regulations. Food stalls and restaurants undergo routine inspections. Look for establishments with good hygiene grades (Grade A or B), often displayed prominently. Tap water is potable.

Emergency Contacts

  • Ambulance/Fire Brigade: 995.
  • Police: 999.
  • Non-emergency Police: 1800-255-0000.
  • Tourist Information (Singapore Tourism Board): 1800-736-2000.

Safety & Risks

Crime Overview

  • Very low crime rates globally.
  • Petty crime (pickpocketing/bag snatching) is rare.
  • Serious crime is extremely rare.
  • Drug offenses have severe penalties, including death.

Natural Risks

  • Free from major natural disasters (earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons).
  • Haze (June-October) can be a concern from forest fires.
  • Heavy rain causes localized flash floods, clearing quickly.
  • Frequent lightning during thunderstorms; seek indoor shelter.

Mosquito Prevention

  • Dengue fever is endemic. Mosquito prevention is important.
  • Use Mosquito repellent containing DEET or picaridin, especially during dawn and dusk.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants, especially when in natural areas.
  • Clean and disinfect wounds promptly due to the humid environment.

Medical Care & Water Safety

Keep your country's embassy or consulate contact details in Singapore handy. Inform family or friends of your itinerary before you depart. This simple step aids communication during unexpected situations. Tap water in Singapore is safe to drink directly. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it. Singapore has very high food hygiene standards. Food stalls and restaurants undergo routine inspections.

Medical Notes

  • Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations.
  • Carry a doctor's note for prescription medications, especially controlled substances.
  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Polyclinics and private clinics are available.

Hygiene Tips

  • Tap water is potable.
  • Choose food stalls with high turnover for fresh food.
  • Look for hygiene grades (A or B) at food establishments.
  • Clean wounds promptly to prevent infection in humidity.

Your Safety is main

Singapore ranks among the safest countries globally. Sentosa Island maintains a high level of security. Standard precautions for belongings are appropriate in crowded areas.