Asia and Oceania

Singapore
Still current at: 22 November 2009 Updated: 29 September 2009

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular assistance figures). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

(see travel advice legal disclaimer)

Travel advice for this country

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

The Singaporean Government has put in place extensive measures to combat terrorism and has arrested a number of terrorist suspects.

For further information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Violent crime is rare. You should be aware of the dangers of street crime, particularly bag‑snatching.

You should:

take particular care of your passport;
leave tickets and unneeded cash/travellers cheques in the hotel safe or at (hosts') home;
when going out, avoid carrying valuables with you, and be aware of your surroundings;
not leave possessions in unattended vehicles.

Police permission is required for certain kinds of public gatherings in Singapore. You should therefore avoid street gatherings and public demonstrations, which might place you at risk.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Singapore Country Profile

Local Travel

Road Travel

Road conditions in Singapore are generally good. If you are involved in an accident, you should not leave the scene until the police have attended.

A foreign driving licence can be used in Singapore for as long as it is valid. But if you are staying in Singapore for longer than one year you should get a Singaporean driving licence or an annually renewable International Driving Permit. These are more readily recognised by the Singaporean authorities.

For further information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The restrictions on the carriage of liquids, aerosols and gels in aircraft cabins, implemented across the EU in 2006, also apply in Singapore and is rigorously enforced. For more general information see Airline Security.

Sea Travel

There have been attacks against ships in and around the waters of Singapore and the Malacca Straits. Mariners are advised to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions; reduce opportunities for theft; establish secure areas onboard; and report all incidents to the coastal and flag state authorities.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety