Be prepared for delays!
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) warned that travellers planning trips during the upcoming holiday periods—March School Holidays (March 14–24) and Hari Raya Puasa (March 28–April 1)—should prepare for heavy traffic at Singapore’s land checkpoints.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) issued a traffic advisory. It warns travellers to expect delays due to increased checkpoint security measures. Be sure to factor in extra time for immigration clearance!
On March 7, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) announced that over three million travellers passed through the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the Chinese New Year period from January 24 to January 30, with the highest volume reaching 521,000 travellers in a single day on January 24. During these peak times, motorists experienced delays of up to three hours for immigration clearance due to significant traffic build-up from Malaysia.
Tips for Travelers Crossing the Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints
- Check traffic conditions—Before your trip, Keep yourself updated with the traffic advisories. You can see live updates using LTA’s One Motoring website, Expressway Motoring & Advisory System, ICA’s social media, or local radio.
- Don’t cut queues! ICA will turn away anyone caught doing this.
- Faster Clearance: Use QR codes instead of passports for speedier immigration clearance (if travelling by car).
- Book Tickets in Advance: If you plan a getaway, book your bus tickets online well. Grab the Raya bus tickets at low prices and save upto 60% on bus booking with promo code RBRAYA.
- Passports: Ensure yours has a validity of at least 6 months. Update Re-Entry Permits and inform ICA of passport changes (for Singapore PRs and Long-Term Pass holders).
- SG Arrival Card: Submit it with a health declaration for short-term visitors (including those with in-principle approval for a long-term pass) via the MyICA app within 3 days before arrival in Singapore.
- Foreign Vehicles: Ensure valid Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP), Autopass card, LTA VEP approval email, and valid insurance. Settle any outstanding fines to avoid entry denial.
More Information:
- List of prohibited/controlled items: ICA website
- Download the MyICA app: App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
- LTA One Motoring website: https://onemotoring.lta.gov.sg/
- For real-time updates at checkpoints – call hotline 6863 0117
