Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2025: SG Arrival Card (SGAC)
All travelers must submit the free SG Arrival Card online within three days before arrival in Singapore. It's a quick digital form covering health declarations and contact details, processed in minutes via the official ICA website or MyICA app.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Singapore, with sufficient blank pages for entry stamps.
Always verify with your airline, as some carriers enforce stricter rules for onward travel in the region.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of over 160 countries, including the US, UK, EU nations, Canada, Australia, and most of Asia, enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 or 90 days depending on nationality.
Stays are typically limited to short-term tourism or business; check the ICA website for your specific allowance.
Visa Applications
For nationalities requiring visas, apply through Singapore's electronic visa system or at a Singapore embassy/consulate abroad, with fees around SGD 30-100 and processing times of 3-5 working days.
Required documents include a valid passport, invitation letters if applicable, proof of funds (at least SGD 100/day), and return tickets.
Border Crossings
Changi Airport features efficient biometric immigration with automated gates for eligible travelers, often clearing you in under 10 minutes.
Land borders with Malaysia via bus or train require passport checks, but e-gates are expanding for faster processing.
Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical emergencies, trip delays, and activities like Sentosa adventures or urban exploration.
Policies from SGD 5-15/day are available, ensuring coverage for Singapore's high healthcare costs in private clinics.
Extensions Possible
Short-term visitors can apply for a one-month extension online via ICA if needed for valid reasons like medical treatment or family emergencies, with a SGD 30 fee.
Submit at least seven days before expiry, providing proof of funds and accommodation; approvals are not guaranteed.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Singapore uses the Singapore Dollar (SGD). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Singapore by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during off-peak periods.
Eat Like a Local
Head to hawker centres like Maxwell or Lau Pa Sat for Michelin-starred meals under SGD 10, avoiding tourist traps to cut food costs by up to 60%.
Markets and food courts provide authentic Peranakan or Hainanese dishes at budget prices with vibrant atmospheres.
Public Transport Passes
Purchase an EZ-Link card or Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited MRT and bus rides at SGD 10-20 for 1-3 days, slashing transport expenses.
Many passes bundle free entry to attractions, making multi-day sightseeing more affordable.
Free Attractions
Explore free sites like Merlion Park, Botanic Gardens (UNESCO-listed), and Chinatown street art, offering rich cultural immersion without entry fees.
Public beaches on Sentosa and skyline views from Mount Faber are additional no-cost highlights.
Card vs Cash
Contactless cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay are ubiquitous, but keep SGD cash for hawker stalls and small vendors.
Use fee-free ATMs at major banks or Changi Airport for withdrawals to avoid high conversion charges.
Attraction Bundles
Opt for the Go City Singapore Pass at SGD 80+ for entry to 30+ sites, ideal for theme parks and museums, recouping costs after 3-4 visits.
Discounts via Klook or Trip.com apps can further reduce prices on popular spots like Universal Studios.
Smart Packing for Singapore
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics for the humid tropical climate, including quick-dry shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses.
Include modest cover-ups for temples like Sri Mariamman and comfortable outfits for urban walking tours.
Electronics
Bring a Type G adapter for Singapore's three-pin sockets, portable charger for long days out, and a waterproof phone case for sudden showers.
Download offline maps via Google Maps and apps like Grab for rides and food delivery in multilingual settings.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance, a basic medical kit with paracetamol and bandages, and prescriptions in original packaging.
Pack high-SPF sunscreen, DEET mosquito repellent for evening outings, and hand sanitizer for hawker centre hygiene.
Travel Gear
Opt for a lightweight daypack for sightseeing, a reusable water bottle (tap water is safe), and a compact rain poncho for tropical downpours.
Include passport copies, a slim wallet, and a neck pouch for securing valuables in crowded areas like Orchard Road.
Footwear Strategy
Choose breathable sneakers or sandals for city exploration and non-slip water shoes for Sentosa beaches or poolside lounging.
Avoid heavy boots; focus on versatile, fast-drying options to handle humidity and occasional wet streets.
Personal Care
Pack travel-sized toiletries including anti-frizz hair products for humidity, cooling body wipes, and a foldable umbrella or hat for sun protection.
Biodegradable items are ideal for eco-friendly spots like the Nature Reserves, keeping your pack light for multi-day itineraries.
When to Visit Singapore
Dry Season (February-April)
Enjoy sunny days with temperatures of 28-32°C and low humidity, perfect for outdoor activities like Gardens by the Bay light shows and rooftop bars.
Fewer rains mean ideal conditions for hiking MacRitchie Reservoir trails without interruptions.
Peak Dry (June-August)
Peak Dry (June-August)
Hot weather around 30-33°C with minimal rain makes it great for festivals like Singapore Food Festival and beach days at East Coast Park.
Expect higher crowds and prices during school holidays, but vibrant events like National Day celebrations add excitement.
Rainy Season (November-January)
Short, intense showers in the afternoons with 27-31°C temps; excellent for indoor attractions like the ArtScience Museum or shopping at ION Orchard.
Year-end holidays bring festive lights and Deepavali markets, with potential discounts on accommodations post-peak.
Transitional (September-October & May)
Milder humidity and variable weather (28-32°C) suit a mix of activities, from Chinatown Night Market visits to Pulau Ubin bike rides.
Avoid if you dislike unpredictability, but it's shoulder season for fewer tourists and balanced pricing.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Singapore Dollar (SGD). ATMs are plentiful; cards accepted almost everywhere, but cash useful for hawker centres.
- Language: English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil are official. English is the primary language for business and tourism.
- Time Zone: Singapore Standard Time (SGT), UTC+8
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type G plugs (British three-pin rectangular)
- Emergency Number: 999 for police, ambulance, or fire; 995 for non-emergency ambulance
- Tipping: Not customary as service charges (10%) are included in bills; a small thank-you gesture is optional
- Water: Tap water is safe and potable; bottled water available but not necessary
- Pharmacies: Guardian and Watsons chains are widespread; 24-hour options at major malls and airports