VTLs Retired as New Vaccinated Travel Framework Takes Effect
From April 1, Singapore will reopen its borders to all fully vaccinated travellers, announcing the removal of all Vaccinated Travel Lanes (VTL) and unilateral entry arrangements. This transition to a new, simplified travel framework will streamline the process for travellers, making it easier for those who are vaccinated to visit Singapore.
Under the new framework, fully vaccinated individuals, as well as children aged 12 and under, will only need to present a pre-departure COVID-19 test result. They will no longer require entry approval or be restricted to specific VTL transport to enter Singapore quarantine-free. Additionally, there will be no quotas on daily arrivals, easing previous restrictions.
While travellers will still need a pre-departure test taken within two days of departure, they will no longer be required to undergo stay-home notices or unsupervised antigen rapid tests (ART) upon arrival in Singapore.
Unvaccinated long-term pass holders and short-term visitors aged 13 and above will largely be denied entry, with limited exceptions such as those with valid entry approval for compassionate reasons. For this group, pre-departure tests will be mandatory, and they will have to undergo a seven-day stay-home notice along with a PCR test post-isolation.
Transport Minister S Iswaran stated that the pre-departure test requirement would be reviewed in the coming weeks, in response to the global COVID-19 situation. The move to simplify entry procedures reflects Singapore’s stabilising domestic COVID-19 situation, as well as the global decline in Omicron cases.
For now, all countries and regions will fall under the general travel category, with none currently in the restricted category. Should a new variant of concern emerge, Singapore may reclassify affected regions, implementing stricter border measures.
Additionally, the introduction of the new travel framework will eliminate medical charges for COVID-19 treatment incurred by fully vaccinated residents and long-term pass holders. However, unvaccinated individuals will continue to be responsible for medical costs, in line with existing policies for COVID-19 treatment.
The government also hinted at working towards the full resumption of land travel with Malaysia for fully vaccinated travellers, with details to be announced in collaboration with Malaysian authorities.
