Singapore Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Exercise normal precaution in Singapore . Singapore is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our travel guidance for Singapore to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Singapore safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Singapore has world-class hospitals including Mount Elizabeth, Gleneagles, and Raffles Hospital. Public hospitals like Singapore General Hospital also provide excellent care at lower cost.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with high medical coverage (at least USD 100,000) is essential, as private hospital costs in Singapore are among the highest in Asia.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Singapore has extremely strict drug laws — trafficking carries a mandatory death penalty and possession of even small amounts of controlled substances can result in long prison terms. All medications should be in original packaging with a valid prescription. Controlled substances such as opioids, benzodiazepines, and sleeping pills require prior approval from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) — apply online before travel. Bring no more than 3 months' supply.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Class C controlled drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Legal with valid prescription. Travelers may bring up to 3 months' supply with doctor's letter and original packaging. HSA approval needed for larger quantities.
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines are Class A controlled drugs — the most serious category. Adderall is completely banned. Importing ANY quantity can result in severe penalties including caning and lengthy imprisonment. Death penalty applies for trafficking (>15g).
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Strictly banned. Cannabis is Class A. CBD products are also prohibited regardless of THC content. Trafficking >500g carries mandatory death penalty. Even trace amounts in urine can lead to charges.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Class B controlled drug. Available by prescription in Singapore. Travelers must carry valid prescription, doctor's letter, and keep in original packaging. Declare at customs for quantities exceeding personal use.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Codeine at low doses is available OTC in some preparations. Stronger opioids are Class A controlled drugs. Travelers should carry prescriptions and keep medications in original packaging. Morphine trafficking >30g carries death penalty.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not expected. 10% service charge + 7% GST usually added. Don't tip at hawker centres.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Littering (SGD $300 fine)
• Chewing gum (banned)
• Jaywalking
• Eating on MRT (SGD $500 fine)
• Drug possession (death penalty for trafficking)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Singapore: