Ask a COVID-19 Question
Last updated: 12/03/2020
Country-Specific Information:
Singapore has confirmed cases of COVID-19 within its borders. The country is now in what it refers to as Phase Two Re-Opening. Many safe-distancing measures and regulations remain in place. Strict enforcement of these regulations is expected to continue.
Phase Two allows for retail and restaurant businesses to re-open, as well as schools, public parks, and playgrounds. Small group gatherings will be permitted. On July 14, the Singapore Tourism Board issued a new Advisory on COVID-19 for Visitors and Tourism Businesses.
Please read this official government of Singapore article detailing Singapore’s Phase Two plans as well as a listing of permitted activities and guidance during Phase Two. Updates from the Singapore government can be found at https://www.gov.sg/.
Entry and Exit Requirements:
Are U.S. citizens permitted to enter? Yes (subject to restrictions as noted below)
U.S. citizens who are Singapore permanent residents will be permitted to enter Singapore and will be issued a Stay-Home Notice (SHN).
U.S. citizens who are long-term pass holders must obtain permission for entry from the relevant Singapore government agency before they commence their journey. More information can be found at Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority COVID-19 border control measures page. U.S. citizens approved for entry will be issued an SHN.
U.S. citizens seeking to enter Singapore as short-term visitors will generally not be permitted to enter Singapore unless they have been issued a SafeTravel Pass or have an approval letter of entry from the relevant government agency in Singapore. U.S. citizens approved for entry will be issued an SHN.
Singapore’s measures for inbound travelers in relation to COVID-19 are summarized in this overview.
Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? Yes
A negative COVID-19 PCR test result obtained 72-hours prior to departure to Singapore is required for entry for travelers from some countries, including the United States. Singapore requires most travelers entering the country to serve a mandatory SHN, and COVID-19 testing will also take place during that SHN period. Please refer to this summary for information on SHN and testing requirements based on traveler type, and this overview on border health control measures in Singapore. Testing and SHN requirements are fluid and subject to change on short notice. We encourage inbound travelers to check these resources regularly.
Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry? Yes
Health screening procedures consist of the previously mentioned mandatory SHNs and COVID-19 testing for all those admitted into Singapore.
Residents on long-term passes issued by the Ministry of Manpower or Immigration & Checkpoints Authority must apply for extensions of their passes with the appropriate Singapore government agency.
Short-term visitors who are already in Singapore are not affected by this policy and may apply online if they need to extend their stay in Singapore.
Movement Restrictions:
Is a curfew in place? No
Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel? No
While there are no movement restrictions in place, there are still certain rules that must be followed. All persons in Singapore must wear a mask whenever outside of their residence in public places including public transport, supermarkets, wet markets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and shopping malls.
Almost all businesses use the SafeEntry process for contact tracing purposes. Should SafeEntry not be available at a given establishment, please present an identity card or passport should it be requested.
Quarantine Information:
Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine? Yes
All persons arriving into Singapore, regardless of nationality, are subject to mandatory SHNs. Singapore’s measures for inbound travelers in relation to COVID-19 are summarized in this overview. Generally, SHNs last for 14 days and take place in dedicated facilities. The cost of accommodation and COVID-19 testing must be borne by all travelers with limited exceptions for those permitted to serve the SHN at their own accommodations. The cost of COVID-19 testing is chargeable in either case.
Violation of a Stay-Home Notice may be punishable under Singaporean law. On July 15, 2020, the Singapore government issued a new Health Advisory for Persons Issued a Stay-Home Notice (SHN). Please visit this link for that advisory notice and other updates.
COVID-19 Testing:
According to Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH), any company or individual may arrange a PCR test from approved providers. This includes individuals who require pre-departure testing. Approval from the MOH for a pre-departure test is no longer required. Approximately 600 clinics provide PCR testing, and can be found here. Travelers departing Singapore for destinations that require pre-departure COVID-19 testing should consult this departure overview. For more information, please refer to this notice from the MOH.
COVID-19 Vaccinations and Consular Issues:
The U.S. Department of State has no greater responsibility than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. The Department continues to proactively communicate travel advice and warnings to U.S. citizens amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of our efforts to give U.S. citizens timely information so that they can make informed choices about travel abroad, the Department advises that the United States Government does not plan to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to private U.S. citizens overseas. U.S. citizens traveling or residing overseas should follow host country developments and guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination.
U.S. citizens abroad should also register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP.state.gov) so they can receive important messages from their nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate, including timely Alerts and updates to Travel Advisories.
Transportation Options:
Are commercial flights operating? Yes
While commercial flights are operating, flight capacity is significantly less than was available in pre-COVID19 times.
Many travelers worldwide have reported unexpected flight cancellations and limited flight availability. If your travel has been disrupted, please contact your airline.
Transit may be possible for travelers with flights originating from certain countries or territories and using certain airlines. Prospective travelers are advised to consult with their chosen airlines about transit permissions through Singapore.
Is public transportation operating? Yes
All forms of public transportation require that travelers wear masks, including taxis and ride-hailing services.
Fines for Non-Compliance: (if applicable)
Individuals who breach their Stay-Home Notice may be prosecuted under the Infectious Diseases (COVID-19 – Stay Orders) Regulations 2020. First-time offenders can be fined up to $10,000, jailed for up to six months, or both.
Consular Operations:
The Embassy’s American Citizen Services unit is offering appointments for all routine services, including passports, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, and notarial services. More information about routine and emergency services can be found here.
The Embassy resumed most routine visa services effective October 13. While all routine nonimmigrant visa services have resumed, immigrant visa services are still limited to those visa categories excepted from Presidential Proclamation 10014.
Local Resources:
Beware of Scams: The Singapore Police Force has advised the public to be on guard against scams. While scams are always a risk, the prevalence of such activities has increased during this heightened COVID-19 environment.
Exercise good judgment and do not give out any bank details, credit card numbers, One-Time Passwords (OTP), or personal details, to include passport, NRIC, or FIN numbers. Singapore authorities will not request anyone to provide such details over the phone.
You can find more information at www.scamalert.sg which explains the different types of scam calls and includes individual stories on the latest techniques being employed by scammers.
Safe-distancing Dos and Don’ts: A guide of safe-distancing “Dos and Don’ts” is found from this official Singapore government source.
Dengue fever in Singapore: Please read this previous 11 June 2020 Health Alert regarding the current and historically large dengue fever outbreak in Singapore. Updates on this situation can be found here.
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