Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Singapore Register Travel insurance Destinations
Last updated: ET
Still valid: ET
Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).
Print format
Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
SINGAPORE - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Singapore.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. You must wear a face mask in public.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined and face serious criminal charges for endangering public health.
Updates on the local situation – Singaporean Ministry of Health
Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs, particularly in the following locations:
- airports
- hotels
- public transportation facilities
- areas frequented by tourists
Ensure that your personal belongings, including passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Crimes, including passport theft, should be reported to the local police and the High Commission of Canada in Singapore.
Fraud
Scams involving property rental occur. The scams include online advertising of properties that are not available for rent or that do not exist. You should only book your rental through a reputable service and, preferably, visit the potential rental and meet the landlord before agreeing to pay any money.
Only shop at reputable establishments where prices are listed. Research prices before buying goods because some retailers charge foreigners exorbitant prices.
Information about known local scams – Singapore’s National Crime Prevention Council
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time, and targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
The Singaporean security agencies are on high vigilance. The Ministry of Home Affairs considers the terrorism threat to be multifaceted and serious. Expect enhanced security measures and border checks.
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety are very good throughout the country. Frequent downpours may pose a road hazard.
Cars do not usually yield to pedestrians. Exercise caution when walking on or crossing streets.
Public transportation
Public transportation is widely available and safe.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robberies occur against ships in and around:
- Singapore
- in the Strait of Malacca
- between Indonesia’s Riau Islands and Singapore
Mariners should take appropriate precautions.
More information about piracy – International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry and transit requirements
Travellers arriving from Canada could be allowed entry to Singapore, under limited circumstances, if they meet specific criteria.
It is your responsibility to verify this information with the appropriate foreign diplomatic office and to ask if you may be allowed entry, based on your individual circumstances and your itinerary. Singapore does not have any diplomatic office in Canada. Contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore for enquiries.
Local authorities may impose additional requirements without notice and your travel plans could be severely disrupted. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
Useful links
- Travelling to Singapore – Government of Singapore
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore – Government of Singapore
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Singaporean authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
More information about entering and departing Singapore – Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Singapore.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
The six-month validity requirement also applies when transiting through Singapore to neighbouring countries. Canadians without at least six months’ validity remaining in their passport will not be granted entry. Officials at the High Commission of Canada in Singapore are limited in their ability to assist such Canadians.
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required (for stays of up to 30 days)
Business visa: Not required (for stays of up to 30 days)
Student visa: Required
The Singaporean Ministry of Manpower allows an exemption to the business visa (called a “work pass” in Singapore) requirement for certain activities. If you qualify for an exemption, you must notify the Singaporean Ministry of Manpower through their e-notification system.
The Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority may extend the period ofof stay beyond the 30 days under certain circumstances.
More information about visa extensions – Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority
More information about work pass exemptions – Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower
Fingerprinting
Singapore immigration officials will fingerprint all visitors upon arrival and departure.
Other requirements
You must have an onward or return ticket to visit Singapore. Customs and immigration officials may ask you to show proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
Working in Singapore
Canadians planning to study, work or reside in Singapore for longer than six months must undergo a complete medical examination that includes a chest X-ray and a test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). All testing must be completed in Singapore. Issuance of an employment pass, long-term immigration pass or permanent residence will be subject to the outcome of the medical report. For inquiries related to health matters, contact Singapore’s Ministry of Health.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Zika virus: Advice for travellers - December 24, 2019
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain. It is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is low for most travellers. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to mosquito bites (e.g., spending a large amount of time outdoors) while travelling in regions with risk of Japanese encephalitis.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- There is currently a shortage of the yellow fever vaccine in Canada. It is important for travellers to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of their trip to ensure that the vaccine is available.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Southeast Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Southeast Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas of Southeastern Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever, Japanese encephalitis, lymphatic filariasis, malaria and Zika virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Chikungunya
There is currently a risk of chikungunya in this country. Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.
Dengue
- In this country, dengue fever may occur sporadically. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue fever can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to dengue haemorrhagic fever, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue fever changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. After a decline in reported dengue cases worldwide in 2017 and 2018, numbers have been steeply rising again.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Zika Virus
Zika virus is a risk in this country.
Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.
Pregnant women and women planning a pregnancy should visit a health care professional before travelling to discuss the potential risks of travelling to this country. Pregnant women may choose to avoid or postpone travel to this country.
Travel recommendations:
- Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
- If you are pregnant, always use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact with anyone who has travelled to this country for the duration of your pregnancy.
- Women: Wait 2 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy. If your male partner travelled with you, wait 3 months after travel or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer).
- Men: Wait 3 months after travel to this country or after onset of illness due to Zika virus (whichever is longer) before trying for a pregnancy.
For more travel recommendations, see the travel health notice: Zika virus: Advice for travellers
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in enclosed air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet.
- Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. See a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic, preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Some infections found in some areas in Southeastern Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness that mainly affects infants and children. Travellers are at increased risk if visiting or living in overcrowded conditions. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against this disease.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing facilities
Consult the following links to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test:
- Local COVID-19 testing facilities - Ministry of Health, Singapore
Excellent medical care is available. Medical services are costly, and payment is required up front. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers all medical expenses, including hospitalization abroad and medical evacuation.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. In 2021, Ramadan is expected to begin on or around April 12.
Identification
You must present your passport if asked to do so by local authorities. If you do not have your passport on you, authorities may accompany you back to your accommodations to retrieve it. If you do not cooperate, you could be detained.
Illegal drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty.
Custom officers can request a drug test on any traveller at the point of entry to Singapore. If you test positive for drugs, you can be arrested and prosecuted, even if the drugs were consumed prior to your arrival in the country.
Illegal or restricted activities
Singapore has strict laws and penalties against a variety of actions that may not be illegal or may be considered minor offences in Canada. This includes:
- jaywalking
- littering or spitting
- smoking in public places
- importing and selling chewing gum
Chewing gum, eating and drinking on the mass rapid transit system are illegal.
So-called “outrages of modesty,” such as inappropriate behaviour by men toward women, using foul language or inappropriate displays of affection or molestation, carry a sentence of corporal punishment, generally in the form of caning, imprisonment for up to two years, a fine or a combination thereof.
Vandalism offences carry a mandatory sentence of corporal punishment.
Shoplifting is considered a serious offence.
The legal age for drinking and smoking is 18 years old. Consuming alcohol in public places between 10:30 pm and 7 am is illegal. In Liquor Control Zones, the alcohol ban is extended to all day on weekends. Local authorities may impose additional restrictions in these zones. Offenders could face heavy fines and jail time.
Map of liquor control zones – Government of Singapore
Demonstrations
All demonstrations and assemblies require a permit. Unauthorized demonstrations, even those involving one person, are illegal. The police can arrest, without warrant, any person involved in or suspected of disrupting the public order.
As a foreigner, you may require special permission to attend any demonstrations or assemblies. You may also not be allowed to attend (even as an observer) certain types of demonstrations. Avoid protest and political assembly sites such as Speakers’ Corner in Hong Lim Park and large gatherings, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
Religious activity
Jehovah’s Witness meetings, including private meetings, are illegal in Singapore. Possession of a Jehovah’s Witness bible and any related publication is also illegal. The Unification Church is affected by similar laws.
Singapore customs authorities enforce strict regulations on the import and export of items such as weapons, illegal drugs, certain religious materials, pornographic materials, videotapes, CDs and DVDs, and software. Carrying any of these items without permission may result in immediate arrest. All luggage is X-rayed at ports of entry, and checked luggage may be inspected for regulated items.
Prescription medication
You must obtain a permit to carry certain medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. These medications may contain ingredients that are controlled substances in Singapore.
Bringing prescription medication into Singapore – Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority
LGBTQ2 travellers
The laws of Singapore prohibit sexual acts (including kissing) between individuals of the same sex. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Singapore.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Common-law relationships
Common-law relationships are not recognized. Individuals in common-law relationships may be requested to provide a certificate of non-impediment to marriage by the local immigration authorities. The High Commission of Canada in Singapore may provide a certificate stating that the common-law relationship is recognized in Canada, but it cannot “certify” your common-law relationship.
Driving
Traffic drives on the left.
Traffic regulations are strictly enforced.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence. Sentences can be up to 10 years in prison.
If you are a Singaporean resident, you may only drive with a Singaporean licence. Under certain circumstances, you may be able to exchange your Canadian driver’s licence for a local one.
You should carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Information about converting a foreign driver’s licence – Singapore Police Force
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is not legally recognized in Singapore. A person who acquires two or more citizenships at birth, however, can keep all citizenships (including Singaporean citizenship) until the age of 21. At that age, a person must decide to renounce all other citizenships or renounce Singaporean citizenship.
If local authorities consider you a Singaporean citizen, you may be refused access to Canadian consular officials. You may also be subject to national obligations, such as taxes and military service. Check your status with the Embassy of Singapore to Canada prior to travelling.
Learn more about travelling as a dual citizen.
Find foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada.
Money
The currency is the Singaporean dollar (SGD).
Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and shops. Foreign exchange bureaus are available at the airport, hotels and some shopping centres.
ATMs are widely available.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Seismic activity
Singapore is in an active seismic zone.
Typhoons and monsoon
There are two monsoon seasons per year. The northeast monsoon season extends from December to March, and the southeast monsoon season extends from June to September. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts, avoid disaster areas and follow the advice of local authorities.
More about hurricanes, typhoons, cyclones and monsoons
Air quality
Smoke haze and other types of air pollution can be hazardous between June and October. Keep informed of the latest haze and air pollution levels, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments.
Air quality information – Singapore’s National Environment Agency
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial:
- 999 for police
- 995 for fire and ambulance service
Consular assistance
To reduce the spread of COVID-19, the High Commission of Canada in Singapore is limiting in-person services. Schedule an appointment to submit passport and citizenship applications. For other consular assistance, contact the High Commission by email or telephone.
Singapore - High Commission of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Singapore and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.