Strong Interest Seen for VTLs with South Korea and Australia
In the two months since the launch of Singapore’s Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) programme, 36,034 short-term visitors and long-term pass holders have been granted approval for quarantine-free entry, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS).
High Demand for New VTLs
The newest VTLs with South Korea and Australia have drawn particularly strong interest. As of Tuesday (Nov 9), nearly 2,000 travellers from South Korea had received approval in just two days since applications opened on Nov 8. These include 866 short-term visitors and 1,133 long-term pass holders, who will begin arriving from Nov 15.
From Australia, 2,423 applicants—1,558 short-term visitors and 865 long-term pass holders—have been approved since applications began on Nov 1. Entry for these travellers started on Nov 8.
Streamlined Entry Process
Travellers using VTLs must be fully vaccinated, undergo Covid-19 testing before departure and upon arrival, and travel on designated VTL flights. Applications for a Vaccinated Travel Pass are required for non-residents between seven and 60 days prior to travel. However, Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and children under 12 are exempt from this requirement.
Global Participation in VTLs
Singapore has established VTLs with 16 countries, including Germany, the United States, and Britain. Four additional lanes—with South Korea, Malaysia, Sweden, and Finland—are set to commence later this month.
Germany leads in VTL participation, with 8,475 passes issued since September. Britain and the United States follow, with 7,621 and 5,615 passes respectively. Conversely, Brunei has seen the least interest, with only 409 passes issued.
First Arrivals from Australia and Switzerland
On Nov 8, the first VTL flights from Australia brought 151 travellers to Singapore, comprising 60 short-term visitors, 24 long-term pass holders, 59 citizens and permanent residents, and eight children. Similarly, Switzerland’s inaugural VTL flight on Nov 9 brought 43 passengers, including 15 short-term visitors and 19 residents.
Cautious Optimism Amid Modest Numbers
Alan Lim, engagement manager at Alton Aviation Consultancy, highlighted that the cautious approach of travellers has kept numbers modest. However, he emphasised that the diversity of destinations and flight frequencies are vital for maintaining Singapore’s status as an air hub.
While passenger volumes remain below pre-pandemic levels, the VTL scheme represents a crucial step in reviving international travel safely and strategically.
