Singapore Rolls Back Travel Curbs To Welcome International Travelers

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started in March 2020, Singapore will be welcoming all vaccinated travelers from April 1. This marks the first time the island nation has rolled back travel curbs while dropping mandatory quarantine.

Singapore eases travel curbs

After the news that South Korea is opening its borders in April for the first time in two years, Singapore has taken note. The island-nation did more or less open to vaccinated travelers from certain countries, including the USA, UK and Canada. However, that was under a quarantine-free scheme dubbed the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) program.

Now, as cases are declining and hospitalizations stabilize, Singapore is ready to welcome the rest of the world.

As of April 1, fully vaccinated adults and unvaccinated children will be able to enjoy quarantine-free travel to Singapore. All that is necessary is to produce proof of vaccination, along with a negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of departure.

In a televised address via Reuters, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said the move will “reconnect Singapore with the rest of the world.

“It will give a much-needed boost to businesses, particularly the tourism sector, and it will help Singapore reclaim its position as a business and aviation hub,” the Prime Minister added.

Domestic COVID-19 measures

As well as making plans to reopen to the world, Singapore has also rolled back some domestic measures, including the mandate to wear masks outdoors. On top of this, the limits on public gathers have increased to include five to 10 people.

What do you need to travel to Singapore?

Proof of vaccination can be presented as a SMART Health Card for travelers from the US and Canada. Meanwhile, EU travelers can produce their EU Digital COVID Certificates, while UK travelers can present their National Health Service (NHS) COVID passes on the NHS mobile app.

Besides passports and visas (if required), travelers are required to present proof of a negative PCT or lab-produced antigen test on arrival. Meanwhile, three days prior to departure, travelers must apply for an SG Arrival Card (online health declaration). They are also required to purchase health insurance with at least US$30,000 coverage for COVID-related medical emergencies.

What does Singapore offer travelers?

Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, making it one of the top destinations for travelers in Asia. The city is incredibly easy to navigate with its excellent public transport systems. It is easy to head from Little India to Chinatown and everywhere in between.

With such a mix of cultures, the cuisine of Singapore is varied, delicious and exciting. Here, you can dine on everything from tasty street food and outdoor dining to Michelin-starred fine dining. Every neighborhood offers restaurants, coffee shops and food hawkers, giving a huge range to choose from.

While Singapore started out as a concrete jungle, the skyline is now giving way to green spaces and skyscrapers. This is part of the nation’s “City in a Garden” dream, which is slowly but surely coming true. Head out of the city to explore the many walking trails among the greenery, while spotting wildlife along the way.  Meanwhile, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens is a must. Even the airport is lush and green.

Shop ‘til you drop

When the outdoor heat gets too much, head into the shopping malls to cool down and browse the latest trends. One of the best is Orchard Rd, with all the major brands, fashion houses and discount outlets.

Go traditional by visiting the neighborhoods to explore the bustling markets. Alternatively, view the work of independent designers and quirky art galleries.

As long as you are fully vaccinated, you can head to Singapore from April 1, 2022, to see all this and more.