Streamlined Requirements Make Cross-Border Travel Simpler for Singaporeans
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on March 24 that Singapore will ease cross-border travel significantly, bringing it closer to pre-Covid-19 conditions. The move comes as part of the broader relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions.
The Prime Minister explained that previous caution was necessary due to uncertainties around the Omicron variant. However, with the situation now under control and most cases originating locally, Singaporeans will soon experience fewer travel restrictions. Testing and quarantine measures for overseas travellers will be simplified, allowing for a more seamless travel experience.
Fully vaccinated visitors will face fewer restrictions upon entering Singapore, providing a much-needed boost to the tourism sector. This development will enhance Singapore’s role as a global business and aviation hub, PM Lee noted.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung confirmed that on-arrival tests will be eliminated entirely. However, pre-departure testing will still be required for air and sea travel, while land travel will be exempt. In light of rising infections globally, Ong stressed that the country must adopt a measured approach, reviewing the situation every two to four weeks.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) will also eliminate country risk classifications, replacing them with two simpler categories. The general travel category will allow fully vaccinated travellers to enter Singapore without quarantine, while the restricted category will apply to places with concerning variants.
From April 1, 2022, all fully vaccinated travellers will be able to enter Singapore quarantine-free, as long as they have not visited restricted regions in the previous seven days. The VTL (Vaccinated Travel Lane) scheme will be discontinued, meaning travellers can take any flight or ferry to Singapore without specific designated routes.
Minister for Transport S Iswaran noted that this move would simplify operations for airlines and aircrews. Furthermore, airport workers will return to standard procedures, with face masks being the only requirement, unless they are in higher-risk roles.
While Singapore eases these restrictions, the government remains prepared to reintroduce health protocols should the situation change abruptly, ensuring swift action if necessary.
