Essential Info
Currency
Other than the Singapore, the US and Australian Dollars, Yen and British Pound are accepted in major shopping centres and departmental stores.
Disabled Traveller
If you have difficulty moving or are with someone who is physically handicapped, get travel advice from the Disabled People’s Association (Tel: 6791 1134).
Banks
Most banks open from 9.30am to 3pm on weekdays, but some open from as early as 8.30am and some operate till 6pm. On Saturdays, most banks open from as early as 8.30am till 2pm.
Drug Abuse
Drug abuse is viewed gravely. The consumption, possession or illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances carry terms of imprisonment, fine, caning and/or capital punishment.
Climate
Singapore enjoys warm tropical weather throughout the year. Average daily temperature is 26.7°C. Rainfall is most abundant from November to January, while July to August are the hottest months.
Electricity
The voltage in Singapore is 220-240 AC, 50 Hertz. Power plugs are usually of the three-pin, square-shaped type.
Errant Retailers
If you encounter unfair retail practices, call the Singapore Tourism Board (Tel: 1800-736 2000). Alternatively, lodge a claim with the Small Claims Tribunal (Tel: 6587 8423).
Medical Facilities
Singapore’s doctors and dental surgeons are among the best in the world. Pharmacists are available from 9am to 6pm and can be found at pharmacies in major shopping centres. Most hotels have a doctor on-call service around the clock. For an ambulance, dial 995.
Smoking
Don't smoke in public vehicles, lifts, bus stops, MRT stations, playgrounds, museums, libraries, theatres, cinemas, air-conditioned restaurants, malls and government offices. Smoke only at designated areas at outdoor bars and eateries. Offenders can be fined up to $1,000 if convicted in court.
Airport Passenger Departure Tax
Travellers on flights departing from Changi Airport currently pay a departure fee of $62.20. From 1 April 2024, the fee will increase to $65.20. Those transiting through Changi Airport will continue to pay $9 in airport charges.
Littering & Spitting
First -time offenders caught littering will be fined $500. Repeat offenders may have to appear in court and may be served with a Corrective Work Order. Those caught spitting in public places can be fined $500.
Money Changers
In addition to banks, hotels and the airports, foreign currencies can be changed wherever the sign “Licensed Money Changer” is displayed. You can find one at most shopping centres. Refrain from patronising unlicensed ones.
Taxes
At hotels and restaurants, prices are quoted as nett or with up to two “+”. Each “+” means an additional 10% service charge and 9% GST (Goods and Services Tax).
Tax Refund
You can get a refund of the 9% GST for your purchases of $100 and above made at stores displaying the "Tax Free Shopping" or "Premier Tax Free" signs. Get a refund from the store and fill it out. At the airport, present the completed form, receipts, purchases and your passport to the Customs officer at the GST Refund Inspection Counter. Alternatively, skip the queues and file your GST claims at the eTRS selfhelp kiosk at Changi Airport before departing. Just shop at places that display the eTRS sign and use one credit card as a Token for tagging all your purchases. For more details, visit www.iras.gov.sg.
Duty-Free Shopping
You can purchase duty-free items at Changi Airport or in the city at T Galleria By DFS, Singapore store (Tel: 6229 8100) on Scotts Road.
Postal Service
Most hotels provide fax services, but for additional services such as telegram and registered parcel delivery, visit the post office. Most branches are open from 8.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and 8.30am to 1pm (Saturday). Dial 1605 for assistance.
Tipping
Tipping is prohibited at the airport. Tip at your discretion at hotels and restaurants as a 10% service charge may have already been included in your bill
Travel Documents
Your passport must be valid for six months from your time of arrival. Visas are not required for stays of up to 14 days for Commonwealth citizens, British passport holders and citizens of the Republic of Ireland. If you lose your passport, make a police report and get a temporary visa from the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (Tel: 6391 6100) before informing your embassy. This is to ensure that you are able to pass through customs when you get home.