Travel to Singapore
Useful information for visiting 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.
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.
For more details, you may visit the ICA's website.
Taxi: Taxis are available for hire at the taxi stands in the Arrival areas of Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 4. A ride to the city takes about 30 minutes and costs between S$20 and S$40. All fares are metered.
Private Hire Car: Passengers can also book private hire cars from Grab, Gojek, Tada Mobility or Ryde for a ride out of the airport. Make a booking and head to the Arrival pick-up points at Terminals 1, 2, 3 or 4.
Train (MRT): To get to the city, take the train from Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) to your destination. Get a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP), a special EZ-Link stored-value card which will allow you unlimited travel for one, two or three days at the SimplyGo Ticket Office.
Public Bus: If you're heading to Terminals 1, 2, or 3, you'll find bus stops in the basement bus bays. For Terminal 4, the bus stop is located next to Car Park 4B and near the SATS Inflight Catering Centre 1. Before proceeding, please ensure you check for your designated bus stop.
Car rental: At the airport, you'll find several car rental companies, most of which offer chauffeur services. Get more information.
Singapore's public transport system is fast and efficient, and will whizz you to memorable attractions without fuss.
Public Transport covers:
- Singapore's MRT (Mass Rapid Transit)
- Bues
- Taxi or ride-hailing apps
- Bicycle
Before visiting to Singapore, you may download 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.
For more information, you may visit the Singapore Tourism Board website.
Emergency Please contact 999 for police emergencies and 995 for medical and fire emergencies.
Language English is the most commonly spoken language in Singapore. Many also speak one of the other official languages: Mandarin Chinese, Malay, or Tamil.
Clothing Singapore's tropical climate is hot and humid. Opt for breathable cotton clothing, wear sunscreen and sunglasses in the daytime, and when visiting places of worship, remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes
Power The common electrical current in Singapore is 220-240 volts AC, with a frequency of 50 cycles. Power outlets and sockets in the country are Type G, compatible with plugs featuring three square prongs.
Payment methods Most shops in Singapore accepts card and mobile payments such as Apple Pay. Cash is also widely accepted and useful and it is a good idea to have some local currency on hand, as smaller shops and older eateries often prefer cash payments over credit cards.
Tipping Tipping is not a common custom in Singapore. Most restaurants automatically apply a 10% service charge to the bill, and for other transactions, the equivalent of a tip is included in the Goods & Service Tax.
Dining In bustling dining venues like hawker centers, it's customary for patrons to reserve tables by leaving personal items such as tissues, umbrellas, or water bottles. It's important to understand that if you're looking for a table, the presence of such items on an unoccupied table often signifies that it's already claimed. To avoid any misunderstandings, it's best to continue your search for an available table that suits your needs.
Smoking In Singapore, smoking is only allowed in designated areas, so it's crucial for smokers to be aware of these spots rather than assuming outdoor smoking is permitted anywhere. Additionally, remember to properly dispose of cigarette waste in trash bins. More information.
Drinking From 10:30 pm to 7am the next day, no drinking and sale of alcohol is permitted in public areas. Consumption and sale of alcohol is permitted till midnight in areas like bars and restaurants with the appropriate licenses. To ensure a law-abiding and enjoyable evening, it's important to know the appropriate locations for alcohol consumption.
Chewing Gum Chewing gum is prohibited in Singapore. Carrying or using it can lead to fines of up to S$1000 for first-time offenders. This rule is in place to maintain the city's cleanliness due to past gum-related maintenance issues.
Support Sustainability You can play a role in our city's dedication to preserving the environment. While touring Singapore, consider some of the eco-friendly practices:
- Prepare your own water bottle as the tap water in Singapore meets high safety standards and is suitable for drinking. It is readily available for free in most restaurants and public green areas.
- Bring a reusable tote or shopping bag to reduce plastic waste
- Consider taking a sustainable tour.