COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise normal safety and security precautions

Exercise normal safety and security precautions (level 1 of 4) in Singapore

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Singapore

Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat in Singapore. The Singaporean Government has put in place enhanced security measures to combat terrorism, including strong border controls and police surveillance. New Zealanders in Singapore should monitor any developments that may affect their safety, remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities. 

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing can occur in Singapore, for example in tourist areas, airports, hotels and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

Scams involving property rental occur. This includes the online advertisement of properties for rent which are not available or do not exist. Make sure you research the property and the landlord thoroughly before agreeing to pay any money.

Scam calls and messages to mobile phones are also very common.  If you use a local mobile phone number, be vigilant about incoming calls and messages from phone numbers you do not recognise.

Air pollution
Smoke haze from fires in neighbouring countries periodically causes high pollution readings in Singapore. Some of the most common health effects include irritation of eyes, throat and lungs. For people with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis, breathing in particle pollution can make these conditions worse. For more information on pollution readings in Singapore refer to Singapore's National Environment Agency.

General travel advice
It is highly recommended that New Zealanders travelling to Singapore familiarise themselves with local laws and customs. There are serious penalties for some acts that may not be illegal or inappropriate in New Zealand.

All unauthorised public demonstrations are illegal in Singapore. Public demonstrations are only allowed at Speakers’ Corner in Hong Lim Park. Non-permanent residents need a permit to join any activities at Speakers' Corner, even as an observer. Penalties can be severe. Avoid areas where demonstrations, political or large gatherings are taking place.

New Zealanders travelling to Singapore should ensure that they have at least six months’ validity on their passports, which is a requirement for entry. Singapore does not recognise dual nationality (over the age of 21). This may limit your access to New Zealand consular assistance. New Zealand consular assistance will be provided to those who entered Singapore on a New Zealand passport and who do not hold Singapore citizenship. Travellers should read our advice on dual citizenship here.

New Zealanders are urged to take note of Singapore’s strict, and stringently enforced, laws against the possession, use or sale of illegal substances. Severe penalties for drug offences include the death sentence and caning. You may be tested for recent drug consumption upon arrival in Singapore, or during airport transit in Singapore. Even if the drugs were consumed overseas, including in a country where the use of that drug is legal, a positive finding or an unwillingness to be tested can lead to a denial of entry into Singapore, detention and/or confiscation of your passport while under an investigation. If you are a permanent resident of Singapore, you can also be arrested and prosecuted for consuming illegal drugs outside of Singapore.

Offences related to drunk or disorderly conduct, including inappropriate behaviour under Singapore’s ‘Outrage of Modesty’ law, can also result in strict penalties. It is illegal to drink between 10:30pm and 7:00am in a public place. Stricter rules apply for Liquor Control Zones. Passports must be presented if asked for by local authorities. Photography of certain government buildings and military installations is prohibited.

Vaping and importing e-cigarettes, including for personal use, is illegal in Singapore.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Singapore should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Singapore are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand High Commission Singapore, Singapore

Street Address 1 George Street, Level 21-04, Singapore 049145 Telephone +65 6235 9966 Fax +65 6536 8180 Email nzhc.sin@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/singapore Hours Reception/Consular hours: Mon - Thu 0900-1300hrs (appointment required). Office hours: Mon - Fri 0830-1700hrs

See our regional advice for South East Asia