Immigration Rules in Singapore while Entering by Bus

For traveling from Malaysia to Singapore, choosing a bus to commute is the most feasible and economical option. There are innumerable luxury bus options available that will take you to Singapore from Malaysia in a very relaxed and comfortable way. Although people from Singapore and Malaysia do not require visas to travel to either country. People from all other countries must have a pre-stamped visa as a part of the public charge on their passport if they travel to Singapore by bus.

Singapore’s immigration rules are designed to maintain security, manage population flow, and ensure visitors, residents, and workers comply with the country’s policies. Whether you are planning a short visit, a more extended stay, or permanent residency, understanding the basics of Singapore immigration is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the key points you need to know about entering, staying, and working in Singapore.

1. Entry Requirements for Visitors

Visa-Free Entry

• Many Nationalities: Citizens of several countries can enter Singapore visa-free for short visits (typically 30 or 90 days). Always check the latest guidelines on the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) website.
• Passport Validity: Your passport should generally be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure.

Visa Requirements

• For Nationals Requiring a Visa: Applicants must obtain a visa before traveling. This can be done through the Singapore embassy or an authorized visa agent.
• Documentation Needed: Common requirements include a valid passport, completed application forms, recent photographs, and proof of travel plans (e.g., flight tickets and hotel bookings).

Some of the most significant immigration rules applicable to Singapore immigration are enlisted below: 

2. Arrival Procedures at Singapore Checkpoints

After the passengers arrive at the checkpoint at the Singapore border, they are required to disembark according to the rules. Security checks cannot be performed if the passengers remain seated on their buses. In addition, the passengers have to take all their belongings and luggage off the bus to go through security and customs.

Passengers must note that they are not allowed to leave anything on the bus as, after disembarkation, a team of customs officials checks the whole bus. In case they find anything objectionable or illegal that belongs to you, it may be a trouble for you.

If you carry anything objectionable or considered illegal in Singapore, like chewing gum, you must declare it at the time of security check. Non-declaration of any item falling under that category may lead to the imposition of fines. This will also waste time for all the fellow passengers.

If you possess taxable items, you must proceed to the Red Channel for declaration, and others must proceed through the Green Channel.

Customs and Immigration Clearance

• Automated Immigration Lanes: Singapore has introduced automated lanes that use biometric data and QR code passes to speed up the clearance process.
• Document Verification: Immigration officers will verify your passport, visa (if required), and travel documents. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your stay and the purpose of your visit.

Health and Security Checks

• Health Declarations: Especially during health crises, you might need to complete a health declaration form.
• Security Measures: Strict security checks are in place, including baggage screening and interviews when necessary.

Rules for Longer Stays and Work Passes

Employment Passes & Work Permits

• Employment Pass (EP): For professionals, managers, and executives earning a minimum salary, an EP is required to work in Singapore.
• S Pass: This pass has specific salary and qualification requirements for mid-skilled workers.
• Work Permits: For semi-skilled and unskilled workers in sectors like construction and manufacturing.

Student Passes

• Student Pass: International students must secure a Student Pass to study in Singapore. This requires proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution and sufficient financial resources.

Permanent Residency

• Application Process: Foreigners who wish to become permanent residents can apply through various schemes like the Professionals/Technical Personnel & Skilled Workers Scheme (PTS) or the Global Investor Program (GIP).
• Eligibility Criteria: The process is competitive, based on factors such as employment, education, and family ties in Singapore.

Mandatory Documents

Once you reach the checkpoint in Singapore, the authorities will examine certain documents. All the passengers must carry these documents for a smooth and hassle-free procedure of entering into Singapore.

Mandatory documents are enlisted below:

1. A passport that must be valid for the period not less than 6 months
2. Acknowledgement of the submission of SG Arrival Card
3. A sufficient amount of money in your account to suffice your further stay in Singapore
4. A valid Singapore visa

Prohibited Items

Every country has its own rules regarding the legality or illegality of certain items depending upon its ethics and the cultural foundation it works on. As far as Singapore is concerned, certain goods cannot be carried while traveling to this country. 

If you own any of these items, you should declare their possession at the security check and must not leave them in your bus because buses are also checked at the checkpoints.

The list of items which must not be carried to Singapore according to the immigration rules is:

1. Chewing gum (except for the medicated chewing gum) 
2. Chewing tobacco or any imitation tobacco product like electronic cigarettes
3. Firecrackers.
4. Arms and ammunition.
5. Sharp objects like knives.
6. Obscene articles in the form of videotapes or software.
7. Seditious or treasonable materials.
8. Controlled drugs
9. Psychotropic substances

If you want to carry medicines in bulk, you must have a doctor’s prescription. Bulk is only allowed if there is an urgent need.

It would be best if you went to the Red Channel in case of controlled goods. Different authorities regulate these items. You need to present your import license or authorization for these goods before the authorities. If you do not have the import license or authorization, the authorities will keep all the goods until they are allowed to be taken into Singapore.

Passengers must note that in case they try to trick the authorities concerning the possession of any of these items, they will be heavily penalized.

Visa on Arrival 

The rules state that there is no provision for VOA or Visa on Arrival in Singapore. All passengers traveling to Singapore on a bus must get an SG Visa pre-hand.

Malaysians are an exception, as they do not require a visa to enter Singapore. However, passengers of all other nationalities must have a valid visa stamped on their passports at immigration.

As per the immigration rules, all the people without valid visas will be denied entry into the country. 

General Guidelines

Apart from all the major immigration regulations discussed above, the authorities must follow certain general guidelines that must be followed at the time of immigration for a quick and hassle-free process.

1. Passengers must fill their arrival cards before they queue for checking.
2. Always have your passport, visa (if applicable), return or onward tickets, and proof of accommodation readily accessible.
3. For locals and foreigners, passengers must stand in the correct lane to avoid any confusion when going out of different lanes.
4. Passengers are not allowed to use their cameras while immigrating, as photography and videography are prohibited in immigration. 
5. Passengers must remove their hats or sunglasses.
6. Passengers must have cash with them as there are no money exchanges at the border.
7. Check the Latest Updates. Immigration rules can be updated frequently. Always refer to the official ICA website or contact the Singapore embassy for current information.
8. Be aware of any travel advisories or temporary measures, especially during global events or health emergencies.
9. Singapore is known for its strict law enforcement. Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to ensure a smooth stay.
10. Adhering to the rules and regulations not only speeds up your immigration process but also reflects well on you as a visitor.

If you want your stay to be peaceful in Singapore, you must not get involved in unlawful or illegal practices.

Also, if you stay longer than the period defined on your visa, you will put yourself in trouble as overstaying is not allowed in the country. You must check the visa requirements for extensions for different stay purposes for stays that exceed 14 days, 1 month or 3 months.

Passengers must remember that no country investigates every detail. At the same time, you leave the country, but it is significant that you follow all the immigration rules and have a good code of conduct at the time of entry. You adhere to all the norms and guidelines laid by the authorities of that particular country. 

You can also opt for the Firstcoach buses from Singapore to Malaysia. Firstcoach buses ensure a convenient travel experience by minimizing stops, allowing passengers to board a single bus for the entire journey. The immigration process is streamlined, reducing wait times to just 30 minutes and enhancing overall travel punctuality. Book your bus ticket online on redBus Singapore and save more on your bus travels!