India

Singaporeans are required to obtain a visa before travelling to India. There should be at least six months' validity on your passport on the expected date of departure from India. As visa requirements often change at short notice, we advise you to contact your travel agency, or the High Commission of India in Singapore for up-to-date information.

e-Visa Facility for Entry into India – The Indian e-Visa is valid for entry through 284 designated airports and 5 designated seaports. However, Indian e-Visa holders can exit from any of the authorised Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) in India.  This Indian e-Visa is an addition to the existing Visa services.  Singaporeans need to apply for the electronic Visa (e-Visa) prior to arrival, i.e. submit your Indian visa forms online and secure the necessary approval before departing for India. Upon arrival in India, travellers on the e-Visa would need to proceed to a “Visa on Arrival” counter at the airport to get their visa stamped on their passport. Please refer to the Indian Visa Online website for more information, and beware of fake websites that claim to offer visa services.

There are several types of visas issued for travel to India, such as Tourist, Business, and Medical visas.  The validity of all visas commences from the date of issue of the visa and not the date of arrival in India.  You should ensure that you obtain the right visa for your travel purposes. 

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders:  OCI cardholders do not require a visa to enter India, and only need to present a valid passport and OCI card.

If your passport is lost or stolen in India, you will need to do the following:

1. Lodge a police report with the Indian authorities.
2. Report a lost passport online with ICA or contact the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi or Consulates in Mumbai or Chennai.
3. Depending on your location, the nearest Overseas Mission will contact you for the collection once your passport or Document of Identity (DOI) is ready.
4. If you are applying for a new passport or Document of Identity (DOI) at the High Commission or Consulate in person, you will need to have the following documents:
   • One (for DOI application) or two (for passport applications) passport-sized photographs. Instant photographs are acceptable.
   • A copy of your police report.
   • Documentary proof of your Singapore Citizenship (such as your Singapore Identification Card or Driving License) to verify your identity.
   • Relevant fees for the application.
   • Travellers can refer to ICA's website for more information on loss of passports overseas.
5. For DOI holders, you will need an exit permit from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). You will need to provide proof of address in Delhi and one passport-sized colour photograph. Please note that exit permits are not issued on weekends or Indian Public Holidays. The contact details for the FRRO in New Delhi are:

Foreigners Regional Registration Office

Block 8, Sector 1

R.K. Puram

Telephone: 91-11-2671-1348, 2671-1384

Fax : 91-11-2671-1348 

Crime and motor accidents:  The rate of crime and motor accidents in India are high.  Travellers should pay close attention to their personal security at all times and monitor the local news on information regarding security risks.  Precautions that travellers can take include:

1. Avoid isolated or unlit areas, including city streets, village lanes and beaches.
2. Do not accept food or drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
3. Do not leave your belongings unattended at all times, and pay close attention particularly in crowded areas.
4. Travel in well-maintained vehicles with seatbelts.
5. Avoid travelling alone on public transport, autos, taxis and rickshaws, particularly at night.

Travel for women in India:  Women should exercise caution when travelling in India.  Women tend to receive unwanted attention in the form of verbal and physical harassment by individuals or groups of men.  There have been sexual assaults on female visitors in tourist areas. Women travellers should respect local dress codes and customs.  Avoid travelling alone, even in major cities and at tourist sites.  Choose safe modes of transport, and arrange airport transfers before arrival.   

Terrorism and civil unrest: In November 2008, terrorists attacked a number of sites in Mumbai, including luxury hotels, a railway station and a restaurant.  Over 160 people were killed and scores wounded. A Singapore citizen was also killed.  Terrorist attacks in India can happen with little or no warning.  Terrorists have targeted popular tourist areas.  In addition, violent protests and demonstrations occur sporadically and often spontaneously.  Travellers should exercise vigilance and minimise risks:

1. Monitor the news for new or emerging threats.
2. Heed official warnings seriously and avoid areas identified as possible areas of attack.
3. Stay clear of all demonstrations, political event rallies, processions and large-scale public gatherings.
4. Be particularly vigilant in the period around days of national significance, such as Republic day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August).

Gold, Silver & Jewellery: There are strict regulations governing the carriage of gold, silver and jewellery into India by International travellers. Please refer to the guide for travellers published by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India at https://old.cbic.gov.in/htdocs-cbec/guide_for_travellers/guide-for-travellers for information on customs requirements and restrictions. 

Satellite phones: Travellers are advised to ensure that they do not carry satellite phones to India. Satellite phones carried by travellers to India will be detained/confiscated and the traveller may be penalised under the relevant sections of Indian Telegraph Act. Satellite phones are also not permitted to be imported except with a license issued by the WPC wing of Department of Telecommunications. Refer to https://dot.gov.in/spectrum-management/2457 for details. For information on customs requirements and restrictions as well as a comprehensive list of dutiable and duty-free goods allowed into India, refer to https://www.cbic.gov.in/resources/htdocs-cbec/baggage-rules.pdf.

Alcohol: The laws governing alcohol consumption vary from state to state, and it is prohibited in some.  Travellers should seek advice from your local travel agent, hotel or the local authorities before visiting such places.   

Currency: The withdrawal of the old 500 and 1000-Indian banknotes was announced by the Indian government in November 2016.  It is no longer possible for non-Indian nationals to exchange these old notes.  Travellers can refer to the Reserve Bank of India for more information and advice. 

Travel restrictions around designated tribal areas:  The movement of tourists around designated Restricted or Protected Areas requires permission from the Indian authorities.  The list of areas can be obtained from the Bureau of Immigration.  Travellers should seek advice from the High Commission of India to Singapore when planning to visit these areas.      

Natural disasters: India is susceptible to natural disasters like monsoons, cyclones and earthquakes.  There can be widespread disruptions to services when they occur.  Travellers can monitor the media and the India Meteorological Department website for updates.    

Mosquito-borne diseases:  Malaria is a risk in parts of India, including in major cities.  Dengue fever and Chikungunya fever are quite prevalent.  Travellers should take precaution against mosquito-borne illnesses:

1. Make sure that your accommodation is mosquito-proof, such as through the presence of mosquito nets or screen doors.
2. Take measures to avoid insect bites.  Use insect repellent and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.  Avoid outdoors at dawn and dusk.
3. Discuss your travel plans and vaccination needs with your doctor prior to travel.

Travellers may refer to this guide for more information on protection against mosquitos.

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 14 October 2021]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website (www.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrests or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas.  These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance.  The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport nos., address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.