10 Reasons Tourists Can Be Denied Entry to Singapore

Planning a trip to Singapore and want to avoid any entry surprises? From bringing too much cash to not having clear travel plans, there are a few reasons you could be denied entry.

But don’t worry—understanding these in advance can help you breeze through the process.

Keep reading to find out what to watch out for so you can enjoy a hassle-free trip to Singapore!

1. Failure to Submit an SG Arrival Card

Singapore is going digital, and that includes how you enter the country.

Now, all travelers need to fill out something called the SG Arrival Card online before they can come in.

It’s pretty important – if you don’t do it, you might get held up at the airport.

Don’t worry, though! I’ll explain what this SG Arrival Card is all about and show you how to fill it out online. It’s easier than you might think, and I’ll guide you through it step by step.

What is SG Arrival Card (SGAC)?

The SG Arrival Card is now online. It replaces the paper form you used to fill out when flying to Singapore.

You’ll need to complete this digital card before you arrive to get through immigration. It’s just like the old paper version, but now you do it on a computer or phone instead of with a pen.

Who Doesn’t Need to Fill Out an SG Arrival Card?

You’re just passing through Singapore and won’t leave the airport.
You’re a Singapore citizen, permanent resident, or have a long-term pass, and you’re entering by land through Woodlands or Tuas.

Just so you know, long-term passes include things like student passes, work passes, and family-related passes.

Everyone else needs to complete the SG Arrival Card before arriving in Singapore.

When Should You Submit?

Do it within 3 days before you arrive in Singapore. This includes your arrival day.

For example, if you’re landing on August 30th, you can start filling out your card from Aug 28th.

Why so early? It’s to make sure you breeze through immigration when you get there. Filling it out ahead of time helps avoid any hold-ups at the airport.

How to Submit an SG Arrival Card Online?

You’ve got two easy options:

Use the SGAC website: Just go to their official website and fill out the form there.
Use the MyICA Mobile app: Download it for free from the App Store (if you have an iPhone) or Google Play (if you have an Android phone).

Pro tip: The app is super handy! It can save your info, so next time you visit Singapore, you won’t have to type everything in again. It’s a real time-saver for frequent travelers.

Below are the step-by-step instructions to submit it via the app. 😊

1. Go to the App Store/Google Play to install the MyICA Mobile app.

2. Select “Foreign Visitor – SG Arrival Card”.

3. If you are visiting Singapore alone, choose the “Individual Submission” option. If you are traveling with family, choose the “Group Submission” option.

4. I will choose the “Group Submission” option to demonstrate. Once you click on it, you will be taken to the Group Details page. Fill in the Group Name and then click on the “Add Profile” button.

5. On the Add Profile page, I’ll use the “FILL MANUALLY” option because I found that the “SCAN PASSPORT” option is not working properly.

6. Fill in your details, including your full name as in your passport, date of birth, country, passport number, and other relevant information. Once done, click the “NEXT” button.

7. Now, enter your contact details and email address. Once completed, click “NEXT” and then “SAVE”.

8. You will be taken back to the Group Details page. Fill in the rest of your family members’ details by clicking on the “ADD PROFILE” button.

9. After completing the information for all group members, click “Group Submission”. Then, select your arrival date and enter the Date of Departure from Singapore. Click the “NEXT” button.

10. On the Mode of Travel page, select your mode of transportation and fill in the Flight Code, Flight Number, and Purpose of Travel.

11. Under the Address in Singapore section, fill in the details of the first hotel you will stay at. Then click “NEXT” and fill in your Last City of Embarkation before Singapore, as well as the Next City of Disembarkation after Singapore.

12. Once you’ve completed this, on the Group Member Declarations page, answer the Declaration Questions.

13. After submitting, you will need to declare if you are carrying more than S$20,000 in cash. If not, simply click on “GO TO DECLARATION RECEIPT”.

14. Keep the QR code securely. You’ll need to either scan it at an automated lane or present it to an officer at a manned counter when going through the immigration checkpoint.

2. Undeclared Cash Exceeding Limits

Understanding Singapore’s Cash Declaration Rules

When visiting Singapore, it’s important to know about the rules for bringing cash into the country.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind: Singapore has a limit on how much cash you can bring in without declaring it. This limit is S$ 20,000 or its equivalent in foreign currencies.

Why This Rule Exists

The government set this rule to help prevent illegal activities like money laundering.

What to Do If Carrying More Than S$20,000

If you’re carrying more than S$20,000 in cash, don’t worry – you can still bring it in. You just need to declare it.

Declaring Cash on the SG Arrival Card

When you’re filling out your SG Arrival Card, you’ll find a section at the end where you can declare any cash over the limit. Just follow the instructions there to report the amount you’re carrying.

The Importance of Compliance

It’s really important to stick to these rules. If you don’t follow them, you might get denied entry to Singapore.

3. Yellow Fever Vaccination Required for Singapore

Recent Travel to Yellow Fever Risk Countries

Travelers who have visited countries like Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, Brazil, Argentina, or Colombia within six days of arriving in Singapore must show proof of vaccination.

You can refer to the ICA website for a full list of countries considered high-risk for yellow fever.

Validity of the Vaccination Certificate

Your yellow fever vaccination certificate is only valid if it’s been at least 10 days since your shot. Make sure to plan ahead!

Consequences of Not Having a Valid Certificate

Without a valid certificate, you could face a six-day quarantine or be denied entry, as Singapore takes strict precautions against yellow fever.

4. Passport Validity Less Than 6 Months

One reason tourists might be denied entry to Singapore is if their passport doesn’t meet the minimum validity requirement.

If you’re not a Singapore passport holder, your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry.

Ensure your passport is up to date to avoid being turned away at airport immigration.

5. Visa Requirements for Entry to Singapore

Tourists from certain countries, including India, Russia, Iran, and Morocco, must have a valid visa to enter Singapore.

Without the necessary visa, travelers risk being denied entry.

However, visitors from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Malaysia do not need to apply for a visa.

Be sure to check the official list of visa-required countries before traveling.

6. Criminal Record

Having a criminal record can be a reason for being denied entry to Singapore.

Immigration officers may refuse entry to individuals with past convictions, especially for serious crimes.

Each case is assessed individually, and a criminal record doesn’t guarantee denial, but it increases the risk.

It’s important to check entry requirements beforehand if you have any prior convictions.

7. Carrying Prohibited Items or Substances

Singapore’s strict laws extend to what you bring into the country.

Prohibited items include electronic cigarettes, vaporisers, firearms, and shisha.

If you’re caught with vape devices or e-cigarettes, they’ll be confiscated.

However, bringing large quantities could lead to denied entry.

Remember, what’s legal in your country might be illegal in Singapore.

It’s crucial to be aware of these restrictions to avoid any issues at immigration.

8. Previous Deportation from Singapore

A previous deportation from Singapore is a significant reason tourists might be denied entry.

If you’ve been deported from Singapore in the past, re-entry may be prohibited or heavily restricted.

Immigration authorities keep detailed records, and being previously deported can raise red flags during entry checks.

Always verify your entry status before planning your return to Singapore.

9. Unclear Travel Plans

Doing your research is a must whenever you travel. So, when the immigration officers ask for your itinerary, be ready with your answers.

Having no clear travel plans or return flight details may lead to suspicions. Before heading to Singapore, make sure everything is set.

Create a clear itinerary of things you want to do and places you want to explore. Book all accommodations in advance and know the address beforehand.

For those staying with family and friends, know their contact details. Make your arrival much easier with all relevant details.

10. Outstanding Warrants

Having outstanding warrants, whether in Singapore or elsewhere, can be a reason for being denied entry.

Immigration authorities may flag individuals with unresolved legal issues, particularly for serious offenses.

If you have any outstanding warrants, it’s crucial to address them before traveling, as they can lead to refusal of entry at Singapore’s immigration checkpoints.