General travel advice for Singaporeans

Introduction

Before you embrace the opportunity to explore the world, remember that no overseas travel can be guaranteed entirely safe. This advice aims to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions, take necessary precautions and mitigate risks while overseas.

You are ultimately responsible for your travel choices, including where you go, how long you stay and what activities you do. There are limits to what MFA can and cannot do for Singaporeans overseas. MFA also does not provide bespoke advice, nor can our travel pages, advisories and notices cover every city, event or possibility. Use our advice together with your own research from reputable sources to plan your trip.

Before you travel

Before you go, do these simple things to make life easier if something goes wrong.

Administrative preparations

• Read MFA’s travel page for your destination and note the relevant overseas mission’s contact details.

  • If there is no overseas mission where you will be, contact MFA’s 24-hour Consular Response Centre at +65 6379 8800 or mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg.

  • Singapore also has Honorary Consulates-General and Honorary Consulates in over 30 countries. They are headed by local representatives who provide essential consular services where MFA does not have a permanent presence.

  • We regularly review our travel pages, advisories and notices. They remain valid even if they are several months or years old.

• Check your passport’s validity and the visa requirements of the country you are visiting or transiting.

• eRegister with MFA so we can contact you during emergencies and crises.

• Share your itinerary, travel insurance policy and bookings with family or trusted friends.

  • If you will be uncontactable for certain periods (e.g. flying, hiking or diving), inform them so they are not unduly alarmed if you do not reply promptly.

• If you are liable for National Service, apply for an exit permit if required.

• If you plan to drive, check whether local authorities accept international driving permits (IDP) or require a local driving licence. IDPs issued by the Automobile Association of Singapore are based on the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.

Health, safety and well-being

• Buy travel insurance that fulfils your needs and be familiar with the policy’s terms, coverage and exclusions. Ensure your policy covers your planned activities, especially if they are high-risk. Travel insurance is essential to protect yourself from unforeseen financial burdens.

• Plan your finances well and ensure you can access your money. MFA’s consular assistance is not a safety net if things go wrong and you need money.

• Keep an eye on local news and be aware of security threats, local laws, customs and health and safety advice.

• Check local health and vaccination requirements.

• If you take medicine, check with the local authorities if you need permission to bring your medicine into their country.

• If you are travelling to areas of public health concern (e.g. yellow fever), check the entry requirements for that country and for return to Singapore. You could also consult a travel clinic or doctor for personalised advice.

Visa and entry requirements

The Singapore passport may be one of the world’s most powerful, but it is not a free pass to ignore visa and entry requirements. Such requirements can change at short notice, so please consult your airline, travel agency or the relevant foreign embassy for the latest information. It is your responsibility to hold the correct visa for your intended travel, so always verify visa and entry requirements with official sources before travelling.

Some countries require you to hold work visas for activities such as factory visits, client meetings and conferences, even if you have an APEC business travel card for instance. MFA cannot intervene in or influence another country’s visa, entry and immigration policies, just as other countries cannot interfere with ours.

If you need a visa, apply only through official channels and check that all details are correct (e.g. name, passport number and visa class). Beware fake visas, unofficial websites and visa scams. Foreign immigration authorities will not recognise fake visas or visas with errors, even if the application was made in good faith. In some cases, you may obtain a visa on arrival. In others, you could be accused of attempting to enter the country illegally. If that happens, remain calm, comply with the local authorities’ instructions and request to contact your embassy or consulate.

Please note that some countries may impose additional entry requirements such as vaccinations, electronic travel authorisations (or equivalent) and insurance.

Why travel insurance is important

• A retired Singaporean suffered a brain haemorrhage while on holiday and was hospitalised for two weeks. His ICU bill was S$1,000 per day and the air ambulance to Singapore cost another S$60,000. His family had to pay S$74,000 up front because he did not buy travel insurance. Travel insurance could have covered these expenses.

• A young and adventurous Singaporean travelled halfway around the world to explore South America. Her rucksack was nowhere to be seen at the baggage belt. Fortunately, having travel insurance meant she could buy essential items without undue financial stress. Travel insurance gave her peace of mind.

• A family were victims of a minor road accident due to an errant driver. While they were physically unharmed, the traffic police told them that they could not leave the country until investigations were completed, which would take at least one week. This resulted in unexpected flight rescheduling and accommodation expenses. Travel insurance could have helped cover these unforeseen costs.

These scenarios could happen to anyone and illustrate the financial and practical support that travel insurance provides. Many Singaporeans have found themselves financially burdened because they did not buy travel insurance. Please note, however, that every policy differs and only your insurer can determine claim eligibility. Furthermore, insurers may exclude cover for travel to places that MFA advises against.

MFA does not provide loans or cash for medical, legal, accommodation, travel or other expenses, nor can we intervene in or represent you in civil or commercial disputes with insurers, travel agencies, airlines and other such parties. If you believe that your consumer rights were not respected, you can lodge a report with the Consumers Association of Singapore (for Singapore-registered companies) or the equivalent overseas organisation for overseas-registered companies.

Respecting local laws and extraterritoriality of Singapore’s laws

Compliance with local laws is essential to avoid severe penalties. Ignorance is not a defence. One bad decision could mean years in a foreign prison. Singapore does not have prisoner transfer agreements with any country. MFA also cannot provide legal advice, interfere in or override foreign judicial systems to get you a favourable outcome, provide translation services, serve as your bailor or court witness and pay your fines. These matters are for your legal counsel to handle.

Some Singapore laws have extraterritorial effect, meaning you may be held liable in Singapore for offences committed overseas. These laws include the Misuse of Drugs Act 1973, the Prevention of Corruption Act 1960, the Securities and Futures Act 2001, the Computer Misuse Act 1993 and specified offences in the Penal Code 1871.

Drug offences remain a leading reason why Singaporeans get into trouble overseas. There is no benefit in using, experimenting with or trafficking drugs. The penalties far outweigh any temporary thrill, joy or monetary gain. Do not assume that you will get away with it just because you are overseas or have never been caught before.

Prohibited and controlled goods

You must know what you can and cannot bring into or out of a country, including when returning to Singapore. While rules differ across countries, almost all countries treat the following as prohibited or controlled: drugs, weapons (including firearms and ammunition), obscene material, wildlife and products made from them (e.g. ivory, animal skin), cultural artefacts and large amounts of cash or cash equivalents (e.g. gold). You must have the necessary permits to import or export such goods.

Many countries also have strict rules on certain food, plant and animal items as these could introduce diseases, pests and other biosecurity risks into their country. Common items that Singaporeans may overlook include dried or cured meat (including bak kwa), fruits, vegetables, seeds, soil, traditional medicines and herbal remedies. You should check your destination country’s customs, immigration or biosecurity agency’s website for what can and cannot be brought in. Bringing in prohibited or controlled items without declaring them or the necessary import licences can lead to confiscation, fines, entry bans or even imprisonment. When in doubt, always declare the items to customs officials and follow their instructions.

Medicine, prescriptions and vaccines

If you are on a medicine regime, you must have your prescriptions on hand and spare medicine in case of travel delays or lost baggage. Medicine that is legal in Singapore may be controlled, prohibited or illegal overseas. Before you travel, you must check with the relevant local authorities if you need permission to bring your medicine into their country.

Observe good food hygiene and confirm that tap water is potable before drinking to avoid falling sick. Consider vaccinations against common illnesses such as chickenpox, cholera, hepatitis A and B, influenza, meningococcal disease, rabies, tuberculosis, typhoid and yellow fever, especially if these diseases are endemic at your destination. If in doubt, consult a medical professional.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Demonstrations such as marches, rallies and pickets can easily turn disorderly even if their intent is peaceful. Such situations are dangerous and can even be prime targets for violent actors like terrorists. No matter how intriguing a demonstration appears, do not attend as a spectator or participant as you may be swept up by it.

Remain vigilant, avoid large gatherings, monitor local news and heed the local authorities’ advice. If possible, avoid known locations for demonstrations (such as public squares) and move away at the first signs of violence or unrest. If you are injured or exposed to riot control measures such as tear gas, water cannons or projectiles, seek medical attention immediately.

Scams and overseas job offers

Scammers have become more sophisticated, using deepfakes, spoofed numbers, compromised social media accounts and internet love scams to trick or coerce their victims into transferring large sums of money. They may even ask you to travel overseas to meet them. Once the money is transferred, it is almost impossible to retrieve. MFA strongly advises you to verify any urgent requests for money by calling the person directly.

• If you are a victim of a scam or other crimes while overseas, report it to the local police immediately and obtain the police report and investigating officer’s details. If money was involved, contact your bank to block your credit cards and freeze outgoing funds.

• If you are in Singapore and suspect that you were scammed, call the 24-hour ScamShield helpline at 1799. Do not travel overseas to ‘rescue’ your ‘relative’ or ‘friend’, nor should you endanger yourself by attempting to pursue the perpetrator to recover your money.

Occasionally, you may encounter job advertisements offering high salaries, generous benefits and luxurious accommodation. Recruiters may instruct you to pay fees upfront for work permits, visas and taxes, promising reimbursement later. Always check if an overseas job offer is legitimate. If it seems too good to be true, it is probably a scam. If you take up such a job and your working conditions differ from what was advertised or what you expected, there is little assistance that MFA can offer. We cannot conduct raids, extractions or rescue operations.

Petty crime

Pickpocketing is a common reason why Singaporeans seek MFA’s consular assistance. Many criminals target unsuspecting, distracted or unaware victims. Some simple ways to keep prying hands away include wearing a bumbag, distributing valuables among different compartments and stacking clothes or towels on top of valuables. Even valuables in your hotel safe are not entirely secure.

Watch out for other common scams and petty crime like tampered taxi meters, staged vehicle accidents, overcharging by ‘mistake’ and fake tickets and bookings. A little vigilance goes a long way.

Extreme and high-risk outdoor activities

Singaporeans increasingly travel overseas to pursue mountain, water, winter and other extreme and high-risk activities that are not possible in Singapore. It is important to acknowledge and prepare for the heightened risks that come with such activities. Activities such as high-altitude mountaineering, hiking active volcanoes, diving in deep waters and venturing into less travelled and remote regions carry significant dangers that demand meticulous planning and a realistic assessment of your capabilities.

Safety is first and foremost an individual responsibility and must be top of mind. You should evaluate your physical and mental limits to avoid over-exertion. Many first-time participants underestimate the risks, go under-prepared and regret the consequences. Do not be complacent even if you are proficient or experienced. The environment can be unpredictable and remote, and can turn dangerous very quickly. For example, thin air at extreme altitudes poses the constant threat of altitude sickness, frostbite and hypothermia while active volcanoes can release toxic gases or erupt without warning. Rescue services may not arrive on time or at all should you find yourself or others in trouble.

You should research and plan thoroughly before embarking on any extreme or high-risk adventure. Start by understanding the specific dangers unique to your chosen activity and location. You should check with the local authorities if your activities are legal and look out for their advisories, prohibitions and guidance. You should also hire a competent and licensed operator to accompany you given the unfamiliar environment, terrain or situation you will find yourself in. Look for operators with good reviews across multiple platforms, a solid track record and a clear emphasis on safety.

The right equipment is your lifeline. You should invest in high-quality and certified gear designed for your activity and the anticipated conditions. This includes having eye protection, appropriate clothing layers, sturdy footwear and safety equipment such as helmets, harnesses and navigation tools. If you are travelling to a remote location, consider carrying a personal locator beacon. In environments like high-altitude mountains and active volcanoes, consider bringing respirators or supplementary oxygen.

When you finally set off, remember that safety always comes first. Pay constant attention to your surroundings and, more importantly, how you and everyone in your group are feeling. Remember that getting back safely is just as important as reaching your goal. You or your group should turn back if conditions become too dangerous or you or someone in the group is having serious difficulties. Your health and well-being, and that of those around you, matter far more than any achievement.

Natural disasters

Natural disasters take many forms, including earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, volcanic eruptions, landslides and avalanches. In all cases, follow the local authorities’ instructions as they are best placed to advise given their local knowledge and experience. Nonetheless, you should exercise initiative to remove yourself from harm’s way as help may be delayed or unavailable. Remember to update your family or friends on your situation, location and condition to reassure them of your safety or to enable them to seek help on your behalf.

Here are some general guidelines on what to do in a natural disaster:

• Earthquakes (Indoors): To reduce chances of falling objects or glass shards injuring you, drop down, get under a table and hold on to it, covering your head and neck with your free hand. Stay calm and move as little as possible. Once the earthquake stops, make sure it is safe before leaving the building and use the stairs instead of the lift. Be prepared for aftershocks.

• Earthquakes (Outdoors): Find a clear spot, kneel and cover your head and neck with your hands. Stay away from buildings, electrical wires, trees, street lights and other such objects. If you are in a vehicle, stop at a clear location and stay inside until the earthquake stops. Be prepared for aftershocks.

• Tsunamis: If you are near a coast, watch for unusual wave patterns or sounds. If a tsunami is approaching, evacuate inland or to the nearest high point immediately.

• Floods: Evacuate quickly to higher ground and avoid exposed wires due to electrocution risk. Do not attempt to travel through floodwaters. The strong currents can drown you while muddy water can hide large and hazardous debris. Only drink clean (bottled) water as water-borne infectious diseases are common during and after a flood.

• Volcanic eruptions: If a volcanic eruption is imminent, follow evacuation orders and bring protective items like goggles, face coverings, damp cloths and sturdy boots to reduce exposure to ash, toxic gases and debris. Volcanic eruptions can cause lava flows, landslides, toxic gas clouds, earthquakes and tsunamis.

  • Most active volcanoes are in the ‘Ring of Fire’ countries – Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan and the United States (particularly Hawaii). These countries usually have alert systems that measure the likelihood and risk of volcanic eruptions.

  • You must comply with the local authorities’ advisories, closures or exclusion zones as eruptions can be fatal.

• Landslides and avalanches: Landslides and avalanches are difficult to predict and are often caused by earthquakes, heavy rain/snow or volcanic eruptions. Areas that have experienced landslides and avalanches are more likely to experience them again. If a landslide or avalanche occurs, move out of the path to the nearest safe high ground immediately.

Mental health support

If you need mental health support while travelling, consider contacting mindline.sg, Singapore’s mental health helpline and textline. Airtime and roaming charges may apply.

• Calls from Singapore: 1771.

• Calls from overseas: +65 6669 1771.

• WhatsApp: +65 6669 1771 (accessible to Singapore-registered numbers only).

Conclusion

As you travel, always remember to be safe, responsible, courteous and a good representative of Singapore.

If you encounter difficulties overseas, refer to MFA's "I need help overseas" resources for what to do and how we can assist, or contact the nearest overseas mission or MFA’s 24-hour Consular Response Centre at +65 6379 8800 or mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg.

We wish you an enjoyable and safe journey!