COVID-19 has changed the way we work, live, and play. In a bid to stave off the impending outbreak, Singapore started enforcing border closures and movement restrictions as early as March 2020. These precautionary measures were adopted by many countries around the world – drastic moves that were unprecedented in modern times.
More than a year on, Singapore is now learning to live with the virus as an endemic rather than a pandemic – meaning COVID-19 is likely here to stay, not unlike the seasonal influenza or dengue fever. As such, travel restrictions are slowly eased as more destinations open up their gates to travellers. If you are sick of the seemingly endless staycations, perhaps now is a good time to utilise those miles you have been saving for. However, travelling during the endemic period requires proper planning.
Before you book those air tickets, keep yourself updated with the latest news and potential risks, and find out what you can do about them.
Vaccinated Travel Lanes, or VTLs
Supported by the high vaccination rate amongst the population, Singapore has successfully implemented several Vaccinated Travel Lanes – or VTLs – which are travel bubbles that allow travellers to go overseas without the need to be quarantined. The VTL air travel programme is available between Singapore and the following countries*:
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No-Quarantine Countries |
Special Requirements/Notes |
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Australia |
Australia |
Only applicable for Australian citizens, Permanent Residents, and their immediate families and Singapore residents. |
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Asia
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Brunei Darussalam |
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Cambodia |
From 16 December 2021. |
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India |
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Indonesia |
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Malaysia |
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Maldives |
From 16 December 2021. |
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Qatar |
Deferred until further notice. |
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Saudi Arabia |
Deferred until further notice. |
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Sri Lanka |
From 16 December 2021. |
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Thailand |
From 14 December 2021. |
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The Republic of Korea |
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Turkey |
From 16 December 2021. |
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United Arab Emirates |
Deferred until further notice. |
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North America |
Canada |
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United States |
Including the US territories of American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands. |
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Europe |
Denmark |
Including the Faroe Islands and Greenland (reimposed quarantine requirements for Singapore travellers). |
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Finland |
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France  |
Including all overseas departments and regions (DROM), overseas collectivities (COM), overseas territories (TOM), and New Caledonia. |
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Germany |
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Italy |
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Spain |
Including the Canary Islands. |
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Sweden |
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Switzerland |
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The Netherlands |
Including Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, and all special municipalities (all visitors must undergo a pre-departure COVID-19 swab test w.e.f. 13 November 2021). |
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United Kingdom |
Including the Crown Dependencies (Guernsey, Isle of Man, and Jersey), and all British Overseas Territories. |
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Oceania |
Fiji |
From 15 December 2021. |
*Accurate as of 8 December 2021.
Assess the Situation
While the number of COVID-19 cases in Singapore may be stabilising, travellers should still take into account the domestic COVID-19 situation in their travel destination. For example, while India’s count of active cases has declined, there is still a substantial number of new coronavirus infections recorded. There were also more than 20 reported cases of the new Omicron variant.
An area with a population that is largely vaccinated would also make it harder for the virus to spread, thus making it safer for you and your family. Therefore, it is good to stay informed with the vaccination rate. Additionally, you should also be aware of any special requirements such as the need to take pre-departure COVID-19 swab tests, as is the case for residents of Singapore travelling to the Netherlands.
Implement Safety Precautions
Whether you are visiting another country, or going around Singapore, it is prudent to adopt measures that will keep you and the people around you safe from viral transmissions. Remember to wear a mask when you travel outdoors and practice good hygiene by washing your hands often and dispose of used tissues immediately. Bring along an alcohol-based hand sanitiser and see a doctor immediately if you’re feeling unwell.
Read up on the safety measures and regulations of the city or state to prevent flouting the law and avoid large crowds or gatherings where possible. It is mandatory for people in the United States to wear a face covering on planes, buses or any other public transportation modes, even if you are fully vaccinated.
Before & After Testing
If you intend to travel outside of Singapore, do note that it is compulsory to take a pre-departure test within 48 to 72 hours of your flight. You will not be allowed to travel if you receive a positive swab test result. Depending on your destination, you may also be required to take another COVID-19 test to confirm your results. Upon returning home, you’ll also need to complete a COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) swab test at Changi Airport.
Safe Travels with Jaga-Me
At Jaga-Me, you’ll find a wide range of at-home PCR and serology COVID-19 tests conducted by qualified healthcare professionals. Approved by the Ministry of Health, our service offers travellers the convenience of booking, doing the swab tests and finding out the results without having to leave home. Our JagaPros will bring the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and test kits to your home, and all you need to do is to present your NRIC and passport to get tested. Read more about our COVID-19 at-home tests, or contact us to find a specialised solution for your needs.
