Government officials will NEVER ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call. Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam. For more information on how to protect yourself against scams, please visit the ScamShield website.
General Advice
There is a threat of terrorism throughout the world and in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities, and there is a potential for other violent incidents. We advise Singaporeans travelling or living in Ireland to take the necessary precautions and exercise personal responsibility at all times.
Singaporeans can visit Ireland for up to 3 months (for tourism or business) without a visa. For other purposes of visiting, please refer to the Irish Immigration Service website to ensure you apply for the appropriate visa.
Ireland is not part of the Schengen area, and a passport is required to travel between Ireland and other European countries, including the United Kingdom. Passports must be valid for duration of your stay.
You will need to provide any documents necessary to explain your visit, which at minimum includes your passport, visa (if necessary) and landing card (if appropriate); and may also include a travel itinerary, invitations or letters to help explain your visit.
As visa requirements often change at short notice, we advise you to contact your travel agency, or the nearest Embassy of Ireland for up-to-date information.
Driving in Ireland: You can drive on a current and valid driving licence or an international driving permit from your own country for up to a year. If your stay in Ireland will be more than 12 months, you must apply for an Irish driving licence and go through the full driver licencing procedure to drive in Ireland. This allows foreign drivers to be up-to-date with the local traffic rules and become familiar with the traffic terrain. The procedure to obtain an Irish driving licence is on the National Driver Licence Service website at https://www.ndls.ie/holders-of-foreign-licences.html. Note that there are strict laws against drink driving. Holding and using a mobile phone whilst driving is not allowed.
Public Transportation: Information on Ireland’s bus and rail networks can be found on the Transport for Ireland website at https://www.transportforireland.ie/. Check for major disruptions on the Irish rail service on Irish Rail’s website http://www.irishrail.ie/.
Petty crime: Do take sensible precautions due to incidences of petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching, passport theft, etc.), particularly in areas frequented by tourists. Secure your vehicle properly and avoid secluded areas.
All visitors and residents are subjected to local laws and penalties. Research on local laws prior to arrival, especially for extended stays.
Health: The standard of health care in Ireland is high. Payment is required before treatment. Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance before you travel.
Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]
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
While travelling
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 numbers, 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 Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.
