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Travelling to and From Singapore: A How-To Guide
Do I need a visa for entry into Singapore?
Most visitors to Singapore do not require a visa for entry.
For a list of countries that require a valid Visa for entry into Singapore, you can check the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)’s website, or enquire at the Singapore Overseas Mission closest to you.


Are there any documents that I need to fill in prior to arrival?
Prior to arrival, you should fill in your SG Arrival Card to submit your arrival information. This can be done up to three days (including the date of arrival) before your visit. You can submit your arrival information via Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority website, or via the MyICA Mobile application.

Departing from Singapore
Are there any convenient services I can use when departing from Singapore?
First-time foreign visitors arriving to Singapore will enroll and clear immigration with iris, facial and fingerprints biometrics at the manual counters or designated lanes at Airport terminals or land checkpoints. They can then enjoy automated clearance with iris and facial biometrics during departure.

Clearing Customs
What to Declare?
All arriving travellers are required to declare and pay the duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) to bring in dutiable and taxable goods exceeding their duty-free concession and GST import relief.
There is no duty-free concession and GST import relief for cigarettes and tobacco products and motor fuel including motor spirits, diesel products and compressed natural gas (CNG) in containers in Singapore.
Please refer to Singapore Customs website here for more information on duty-free concession and GST import relief.

How to Declare?
Prior to your arrival, you can use the Customs@SG web application to declare and pay the duty and/or GST for your goods. An advance customs declaration and payment can be made up to 3 days from the date of arrival.
You can find out more about the Customs@SG web application here.


How do I check for period of stay granted?
After clearing immigration, an electronic Pass ("e-Pass") will be sent to the email address registered in your SGAC submission. The e-Pass will contain the period of stay granted and last day of stay in Singapore. You may also retrieve the e-Pass via ICA's e-Pass Enquiry Portal to find information on the period of stay granted for your visit. Keep the e-pass on hand for a smoother hotel check-in or tax refund process!


Getting around Singapore

By Public Transport
An incoming Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train on the rail track
Singapore’s MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and bus systems have an extensive network of routes that will help you zip around the city.
Most of our popular attractions are just a short walk away from an MRT station, making our trains a great way to get around.
Our bus routes are also some of the most scenic, allowing you to indulge in the lush greenery and beautiful architecture of our ‘city in a garden’. All public buses are wheelchair accessible and open strollers are allowed. Please approach our friendly bus captains if you need assistance. Do take note that you may be required to fold your stroller if the bus has too many passengers. You can refer to the the SBS Transit, SMRT, Go-Ahead Singapore, and Tower Transit Singapore websites for more information and guidelines.


By taxi or ride-hailing apps
Cross junction at Chinatown neighbourhood
Taxis are comfortable and especially handy if you want to go to places not accessible by the bus or MRT. Cabs here are metered, but there may be surcharges depending on when, where and which company’s taxi you board.
To get a rough idea of the final fare, check with the driver on the surcharges and ask for a receipt at the end of the trip. You can also check out this website for a quick and easy comparison.
You can hail a taxi by the roadside at most places, or by queuing for one at a taxi stand, which you’ll find at most malls, hotels and attractions.
Alternatively, you may use one of the ride-hailing applications available in Singapore to book a ride from your preferred pick-up point to your desired destination. Some options available include Grab, Gojek, Ryde and TADA.

Taxi Touting & Overcharging
Touting and overcharging is illegal in Singapore. Tourists are advised to book point-to-point trips via licenced ride-hail or street hail operators. Should you encounter incidents of touting, overcharging or drivers refusing to use the taximeter (for taxis that are flagged on the road), you may report them to the Land Transport Authority (LTA) through feedback@LTA.gov.sg.


By Bicycle
A man with a bicycle on the cycling path
Cycling around our sunny island is a great way to get your dose of Vitamin D and enjoy the green spaces that dot our city.
Singapore boasts a well-connected network of cycling paths, and you can rent shared bicycles from licensed operators.
Feel free to bring your foldable bike onboard our trains and buses, but check if they’re too bulky.