Useful Information for Visitors and Participants
Airport
Changi International Airport is Singapore’s main airport with four passenger terminals. Transportation to and from the city are easy. There are several ground transportation services available at the airport.
Passport and Visa
A passport, valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry, and an entry visa for some nationals, is required for entry into Singapore. Lack of a valid visa may cause airlines to deny boarding at the port of embarkation as well as delays in clearance with immigration authorities upon arrival at the port of entry into Singapore. Click here for visa application procedures.
Customs Formalities
Click here for dutiable and taxable goods including list of prohibited and controlled items.
Travel Insurance
Visitors are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel insurance prior to travelling to Singapore.
Hotel Accommodation
See Tripadvisor for information on hotel accommodation. Click here
Currency
Major currencies can be exchanged for Singapore dollars at banks, hotels, and authorized money exchange counters wherever the sign ‘Licensed Money Changer’ is displayed. Most shopping malls have a licensed money changer. Visitors are advised not to change money with an unlicensed operator. Click here for latest exchange rates.
Banks
Operating hours vary from bank to bank. Generally, most banks open from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, Mondays to Fridays; and from 8.30 am to 1.00 pm on Saturdays. Some banks are open for extended hours including Sundays.
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are also widely available all over Singapore. You may use your approved credit card to make cash withdrawals at any time. These ATMs are located in major shopping centres and within the vicinity of housing estates and other public places.
Shopping
Click here for your guide to shopping in Singapore.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
There is a 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) payable on all purchases. As a visitor in Singapore, if you make any purchase of more than S$100 at participating shops, you may claim a refund on the GST paid on your purchases. To know whether a shop is participating in the Tourist Refund Scheme, look for a “Tax Free” shopping logo or sign displayed at the shop. You can also check with the retailer whether your purchases are eligible for GST refund.
No Smoking Areas
Smoking is prohibited in all air-conditioned places, such as malls and eateries. There are designated smoking areas in some entertainment outlets and open-air eateries.
Communication
There are three major mobile telephone operators in Singapore: SingTel, StarHub, and M1. Prepaid SIM cards for voice and data can be purchased at post offices, convenience stores, and other authorized dealers in various denominations. You should bring along your passport for registration at the point of purchase.
Transportation
Trains (MRT)
The Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) has a network of about 142 stations across the island and more to come. The MRT system is one of the most popular modes of transport in Singapore with a ridership of well over 2 million passengers a day. The train runs from early in the morning until midnight. You can buy the tickets at all stations.
Buses
Buses complement the rail system and bring commuters closer to their destinations.
Taxis and Ride-hailing services
Taxis are available 24 hours a day, each taxi carries a maximum of four passengers. All taxis use a taximeter. There is a surcharge at night time and for driving through certain areas during rush-hour traffic. Taxis can also be booked through the telephone, sms, mobile app or online portal <provide link>. Click here for taxi fare information.
Ride-hailing services available in Singapore. Similar to taxis, they operate 24 hours a day and carry a maximum of four passengers. Ride-hailing fares are pre-calculated based on the distance between your current location and your designation by the app. Thus, if you are stuck in a traffic jam, there is no need to pay additional charges. Ride-hailing fares can be subject to surge pricing when demand outstrips the supply of available ride-hailing vehicles. You may pay the fare by cash or credit card.
The two major ride-hailing services available in Singapore are: