travel to india via singapore

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Ministry of Health (MOH) Public Health Advisory

Travellers should refer to the  ICA website  for the latest information on travelling to/from or transiting through Singapore. Residents of Singapore intending to depart Singapore are strongly advised to check the latest  MOH Travel Advisory  for outbound travel. For the latest updates on Singapore's COVID-19 situation, please refer to the MOH website at  https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19 .   

Travel Requirements to India

All travellers should preferably be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their country .  Given that travel guidelines can change regularly, and there may be additional state-level requirements imposed, travellers to India are advised to refer to the official website of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, at   https://www.mohfw.gov.in .

You may wish to refer to the official website of the India Ministry of Home Affairs at https://www.mha.gov.in for detailed information on COVID-19 restrictions in different states in India. You may also wish to refer to the official website of the Indian Bureau of Immigration at https://boi.gov.in/ . 

Entry and Exit

Singaporeans are required to obtain a visa before travelling to India. There should be at least six months' validity on your passport on the expected date of departure from India. As visa requirements often change at short notice, we advise you to contact your travel agency, or the High Commission of India in Singapore for up-to-date information.

e-Visa Facility for Entry into India – The Indian e-Visa is valid for entry through 284 designated airports and 5 designated seaports. However, Indian e-Visa holders can exit from any of the authorised Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) in India.  This Indian e-Visa is an addition to the existing Visa services.  Singaporeans need to apply for the electronic Visa (e-Visa) prior to arrival, i.e. submit your Indian visa forms online and secure the necessary approval before departing for India. Upon arrival in India, travellers on the e-Visa would need to proceed to a “Visa on Arrival” counter at the airport to get their visa stamped on their passport. Please refer to the Indian Visa Online website for more information, and beware of fake websites that claim to offer visa services.

There are several types of visas issued for travel to India, such as Tourist, Business, and Medical visas.  The validity of all visas commences from the date of issue of the visa and not the date of arrival in India.  You should ensure that you obtain the right visa for your travel purposes. 

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders:  OCI cardholders do not require a visa to enter India, and only need to present a valid passport and OCI card.

If your passport is lost or stolen in India, you will need to do the following:

• Lodge a police report with the Indian authorities.
• Report a lost passport online with ICA or contact the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi or Consulates in Mumbai or Chennai.
• Depending on your location, the nearest Overseas Mission will contact you for the collection once your passport or Document of Identity (DOI) is ready.
• One (for DOI application) or two (for passport applications) passport-sized photographs. Instant photographs are acceptable.
• A copy of your police report.
• Documentary proof of your Singapore Citizenship (such as your Singapore Identification Card or Driving License) to verify your identity.
• Relevant fees for the application.
• Travellers can refer to ICA's website for more information on loss of passports overseas.
• For DOI holders, you will need an exit permit from the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) . You will need to provide proof of address in Delhi and one passport-sized colour photograph. Please note that exit permits are not issued on weekends or Indian Public Holidays. The contact details for the FRRO in New Delhi are:

Foreigners Regional Registration Office

Block 8, Sector 1

Telephone: 91-11-2671-1348, 2671-1384

Fax : 91-11-2671-1348 

Safety and Security

Crime and motor accidents:  The rate of crime and motor accidents in India are high.  Travellers should pay close attention to their personal security at all times and monitor the local news on information regarding security risks.  Precautions that travellers can take include:

• Avoid isolated or unlit areas, including city streets, village lanes and beaches.
• Do not accept food or drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• Do not leave your belongings unattended at all times, and pay close attention particularly in crowded areas.
• Travel in well-maintained vehicles with seatbelts.
• Avoid travelling alone on public transport, autos, taxis and rickshaws, particularly at night.

Travel for women in India:  Women should exercise caution when travelling in India.  Women tend to receive unwanted attention in the form of verbal and physical harassment by individuals or groups of men.  There have been sexual assaults on female visitors in tourist areas. Women travellers should respect local dress codes and customs.  Avoid travelling alone, even in major cities and at tourist sites.  Choose safe modes of transport, and arrange airport transfers before arrival.   

Terrorism and civil unrest: In November 2008, terrorists attacked a number of sites in Mumbai, including luxury hotels, a railway station and a restaurant.  Over 160 people were killed and scores wounded. A Singapore citizen was also killed.  Terrorist attacks in India can happen with little or no warning.  Terrorists have targeted popular tourist areas.  In addition, violent protests and demonstrations occur sporadically and often spontaneously.  Travellers should exercise vigilance and minimise risks:

• Monitor the news for new or emerging threats.
• Heed official warnings seriously and avoid areas identified as possible areas of attack.
• Stay clear of all demonstrations, political event rallies, processions and large-scale public gatherings.
• Be particularly vigilant in the period around days of national significance, such as Republic day (26 January) and Independence Day (15 August).

Gold, Silver & Jewellery: There are strict regulations governing the carriage of gold, silver and jewellery into India by International travellers. Please refer to the guide for travellers published by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Department of Revenue, Ministry of Finance, Government of India at https://old.cbic.gov.in/htdocs-cbec/ guide_for_travellers/guide- for-travellers  for information on customs requirements and restrictions. 

Satellite phones: Travellers are advised to ensure that they do not carry satellite phones to India. Satellite phones carried by travellers to India will be detained/confiscated and the traveller may be penalised under the relevant sections of Indian Telegraph Act. Satellite phones are also not permitted to be imported except with a license issued by the WPC wing of Department of Telecommunications. Refer to  https://dot.gov.in/spectrum- management/2457   for details.  For information on customs requirements and restrictions as well as a comprehensive list of dutiable and duty-free goods allowed into India, refer to  https://www.cbic.gov.in/ resources/htdocs-cbec/baggage- rules.pdf .

Alcohol: The laws governing alcohol consumption vary from state to state, and it is prohibited in some.  Travellers should seek advice from your local travel agent, hotel or the local authorities before visiting such places.   

Currency: The withdrawal of the old 500 and 1000-Indian banknotes was announced by the Indian government in November 2016.  It is no longer possible for non-Indian nationals to exchange these old notes.  Travellers can refer to the Reserve Bank of India for more information and advice. 

Travel restrictions around designated tribal areas:  The movement of tourists around designated Restricted or Protected Areas requires permission from the Indian authorities.  The list of areas can be obtained from the Bureau of Immigration .  Travellers should seek advice from the High Commission of India to Singapore when planning to visit these areas.      

Additional Information

Natural disasters: India is susceptible to natural disasters like monsoons, cyclones and earthquakes.  There can be widespread disruptions to services when they occur.  Travellers can monitor the media and the India Meteorological Department website  for updates.    

Mosquito-borne diseases:  Malaria is a risk in parts of India, including in major cities.  Dengue fever and Chikungunya fever are quite prevalent.  Travellers should take precaution against mosquito-borne illnesses:

• Make sure that your accommodation is mosquito-proof, such as through the presence of mosquito nets or screen doors.
• Take measures to avoid insect bites.  Use insect repellent and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.  Avoid outdoors at dawn and dusk.
• Discuss your travel plans and vaccination needs with your doctor prior to travel.

Travellers may refer to this guide for more information on protection against mosquitos.

General Travel Advice

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website ( www.mfa.gov.sg ) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas  Mission  or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

Authorized Portal for Visa Application to India Indianvisaonline.gov.in

All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa from an Indian Mission/Post or eVisa (Limited Categories) from Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Visa on Arrival for the nationals of Japan, South Korea and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India) Available at selected Airports

Advisory: Government of India has not authorized any agent or intermediary to charge any fee for facilitation of emergency / express Visa/eVisa. For travel to India a regular/eVisa along with passport is mandatory. Only categories exempted under bilateral arrangments may not need a visa. For persons of Indian origin (all categories), OCI card is mandatory.

e-Visa - Only Ordinary Passport holders may apply for eVisa application online. Select Visa Service as G20 eConference Visa and purpose as "To Attend G20 Conference/Meeting" .

Regular Visa - Diplomatic/Official/Ordinary Passport holders may fill online application and submit at concerned Indian Embassy/Mission in their country. Select Visa Service as Conference Visa and purpose as "To Attend G20 Conference/Meeting" .

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India mandates PCR tests for transit passengers through Singapore Changi Airport

Update: India is scrapping pre-departure PCR testing for travellers from (and through) Singapore on 13th February 2023. See here for details .

Last week India introduced a surprise requirement for all international arriving travellers from six Asian countries, including Singapore, to once again have a negative pre-departure COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours of departure, a mandate first dropped way back in February 2022.

The policy change came about “in the context of the evolving trajectory of COVID-19 in some countries, especially China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Republic of Korea, Thailand and Japan” , according to health officials in India, leaving many bemused how Singapore made it to the list, with cases here at their lowest level in over a year.

Indeed Singapore was recording daily COVID-19 case totals some 12 times higher than it is now back in February 2022, when India dropped the pre-departure test requirements for travellers from the Lion City!

Adding to the confusion, the news was announced only 24 hours after the Indian High Commission  officially denied reports  that travellers from Singapore would be included in the list of those requiring a pre-departure test to travel to India – which turned out to be completely false.

Transit passengers are now included

Originally, transit passengers were not included in the remit, with airports in India happily telling travellers there was no need to be tested if they were originating in a non-high risk country, and merely passing through the transit area of an airport in a high risk country en-route to India.

Singapore Airlines had the same travel advice on its website, with no tests required, for example, when flying from Sydney to Delhi via Singapore with the carrier.

That situation has now changed , with India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare clarifying that transiting in one of the high-risk countries like Singapore, even without clearing immigration, means the pre-departure PCR test requirement is imposed on the traveller.

“As per revised guidelines, a mandatory requirement for pre-departure RT-PCR testing (to be conducted within 72 hours prior to undertaking the journey) has been introduced for passengers in all international flights from [high risk] countries. “This will also apply to transiting passengers through the [high risk] countries irrespective of their originating countries before coming to any Indian airport.” India Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In other words, any transit though Singapore Changi Airport now triggers the requirement for a pre-departure PCR test when travelling to India as your final destination, even when originating in non-high risk countries like Australia, Indonesia and the USA.

For example if you are travelling from Sydney to Bengaluru on the non-stop Qantas QF67 flight, you will not be required to have a pre-departure PCR test, but if you opt for the Singapore Airlines itinerary from Sydney to Bengaluru via Changi (SQ212 then SQ510), you will require a pre-departure PCR test.

Australia’s current COVID-19 infection rate is double that of Singapore, but that’s (sadly) irrelevant!

This will be an expensive addition to trip costs, particularly for families, with a PCR test in Sydney including a certificate for travel purposes typically costing around AU$80-100.

In the USA, also a low risk country on India’s classification, the impact can be even worse with PCR testing costing upwards of US$180 (S$240)!

The pre-departure PCR test rule now effectively applies to all passengers travelling on board flights operating from high risk countries to India, regardless of their original origin point (if they transited in a high risk country).

Singapore Airlines has already updated its Travel Advisories page to reflect the new policy.

Latest process

The mandatory pre-departure PCR test has to be conducted within 72 hours of departure to India at the first embarkation point, and has been applicable to those arriving in India from 10am on 1st January 2023 .

It applies to those aged 12 or above arriving from and transiting through the following countries:

• South Korea

Affected passengers must complete the Air Suvidha Form  prior to departure, including the requirement to upload the negative RT-PCR test certificate (max. 1MB).

While Delhi Airport runs the Air Suvidha system, it is mandatory for all travellers from high risk countries when arriving at any airport in India on an international flight.

A random 2% of international travellers (aged 12+) will also undergo a PCR test on arrival in India, which applies to all international arrivals, even from low risk countries.

This additional imposition on transit travellers originating in non-high risk countries but travelling via a high risk country en-route to India will see all those using Singapore Airlines via Changi affected , in addition to those using JAL or ANA via Tokyo and Cathay Pacific via Hong Kong, all popular stopover points particularly for those flying from the USA and Australia.

The requirement applies even if you remain wholly inside the transit area at these airports, and regardless of how long or short your connection is.

This will add significant cost for travellers originating in these countries, with some eye-watering PCR test bills typically charged overseas, unlike the wide range of S$50-100 options here in Singapore itself.

(Cover Photo: Changi Airport Group)

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37 comments

Thanks for the info. We are flying YVR-SIN-MAA next week. Am I right in saying we need a negative PCR test result within 72 hours of our first flight? ie from Vancouver? Thanks!

Yes that’s correct. The test timing should be no more than 72h of your departure from YVR.

This is absolutely nonsensical! As an Indian, traveling in the US now, I have been following the developments back home. After seeing news reports of the New Year celebrations in major cities of India, there’s probably a better case for RT PCR negative certificates from departing air travelers from India than the other way around.

Have cancelled my India business travel until they sort this nonsense out. What a dumb country.

Oops, double post, pls delete

The rule may not make much sense but we dont need dumbf*cks like you in our country too.

Simple solution to a nonsensical government action. DON’T go to India. See how quickly the stance will flip once tourists dry up.

This is bullshit from them. Anyway, just boycott that country like forever

This seems to be another sadistic pleasure idea sitting in cosy corridors of power in India either it should also apply to the Indians also going abroad or it should be withdrawn.

They probably sensed Singapore is in China or part of China, pity the Indians GK 🤣

Singapore is indeed a province of Greater Taiwan.

Idiots sitting in power. If you are originating from non high risk country eg Australia and you did a test within 72 hrs of departing Australia, how would the test capture if you catch something while transmitting high risk country. Can someone with normal IQ working under these idiots explain that the test are useless as they were done before transiting high risk country

Totally agree with this …this is really a nonsensical idea …they could do a test on arrival in Indra if they want…why should we pay an additional cost

Did you have to do the test?

Exactly what I’m thinking. Rt PCR for transit is as useless as a tissue paper in Indian toilets😂

I know right, makes no logical sense

Have cancelled my India business travel until this requirement is removed. India living in 2020 again.

We are flying YVR-SIN-DEL and staying in Singapore for 23 hours (thus leaving the airport) will we need another COVID test from Singapore or will the original one done in Vancouver be suffice? (Our test in Vancouver will cover us for the duration of the trip including the layover in SIN)

Tried calling Singapore Airlines and even they seemed confused!

What is the update Sunny. Please share

We are departing from Australia to India and transiting in Singapore for a few hours. Is the test to be taken 72-hours prior to my flight leaving Australia OR 72-hours prior to my flight departing Singapore to India? Can’t find any information to clarify this.

The test to be taken 72-hours prior to your flight leaving Australia, departure from your originating country. Not to be counted from Singapore, as I understood.

Please read the last 3 lines. https://air-suvidha.org/ Do I Need an Air Suvidha? After the nearly 2-year travel ban, India has reopened the country’s border and welcomed international tourists again. Travelers, however, still must meet some entry requirements, one of which is the necessity to complete the self-declaration form before the trip. Currently, travelers arriving from high-risk countries (China, Singapore, Hong Kong, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, and Japan) who plan soon to visit India must remember to complete the Air Suvidha Self-Declaration and have it ready to show during the border control. Those who are unable to present the confirmation of the Air Suvidha may be denied entry to India. Every traveler needs to have a separate self-declaration form, no matter their age, nationality, or vaccination status. It is possible to submit a group declaration form. Moreover, parents or guardians must complete the Air Suvidha declarations on behalf of any child traveling to India. Completing the form is also mandatory for transit passengers (arriving from high-risk countries), excluding those who will not be passing through immigration clearance.

https://air-suvidha.org/ I’m an Australian transiting through Singapore before arriving in India. Do I need to complete the Air Suvidha Form and provide an RT-PCR test result? According to the latest changes (1st Jan. 2023) in Indian entry restrictions, all international passengers flying from high-risk countries are required to have an RT-PCR test produced 72 hrs prior to departure and submit the Air Suvidha Declaration. These requirements also apply to passengers transiting through high-risk countries (Singapore, China, the Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, and Thailand) regardless of the country where their journey starts before coming to any airport in India. Please, however, note that passengers transiting through high-risk countries who will not be crossing immigration are exempted from the requirement to fill out the Air Suvidha and provide a negative test report.

Any update. Did you have to do the test

Whole thing is bullshit. I am double vaccinated and double bolstered. Indian government should have some intelligent course of action than this nonsense. Who knew such great minds come from there but idiots impose policies. Regardless of leaving airport or transiting in Singapore- one is to take PCR test before departing USA? Science is lost these people

You took a shot proven to not work. Pcr test is a scam. So ask yourself. Who is the real idiot here. Even though Indian government is full of morons. I hope you don’t get sick from the vaccine even though you fell for their covid vaccine scam.

Hi Andrew, we will be travelling from Bali to Singapore and then from Singapore to India a day later. Are we allowed to submit a PCR test result from Bali (that will still be within 72 hours before our flight from Singapore)?

Note that we will not be transit passengers. We will be spending a day in Singapore before our flight to India.

Ajay we’re in the same boat. Please let me know what happens. [email protected]

You are not a transit passenger, so you need to take PCR in Singapore. There’s express PCR option in clinics, you can get results within 4 to 6 hours.

The information in Indian Govt website, does not clearly specify where the rtpcr test should be taken if transit through high risk country. The airlines website does mention that the test should be from city of origin. But not mentioned in Indian Gov site. Could the expectation be something else ? I asked this here : https://twitter.com/abhivij/status/1617819018601324546?s=20&t=oy2msDoON6AQNTYSH6w2qQ

Has anyone travelled recently from the US or Canada or Austrlia via Singapore and had to take the test how was your experience i have a trip planned for April. Dont need another added expense

Can anyone who went out in Singapore confirm if the test was needed 72 hours before point of origin(not Singapore) or from the Singapore flight time? Thanks

We flew from YVR to DEL via SIN and exited Changi during our 24 hour layover. We had a PCR test done in Vancouver given our itinerary was all the way thru to India and then did another one at Raffles Medical upon landing at the airport. Since our bags were checked thru to DEL and we had our boarding passes in hand already, we simply went straight thru security the next day at Changi and nobody checked if we had a refreshed test results (we understood that if we left the airport, the test done in Vancouver would be void for onward travel to India) Maybe the Air Suvidha form we completed with the test results from Singapore were visible to the customs officer in Delhi? We’ll never really know I guess.

Thanks Sunny for the prompt response .

A Singapore airlines agent on email said I cannot exit the airport if my transit isn’t greater than 72 hours though no website states this. So I called Singapore air and they that is not the case, as long as I have a transit visa I can g out and they also said my USA Covid test is enough even for the second leg if it’s within 72 hours .

1. Did you fill another air suvidha form for the Singapore to india leg? From your response I guess not but want to be sure.

2. Did you avail any transit visa for Singapore ? If so was it the transit free visa service for Indians ?

3. How much did the Covid test in Singapore cost and how long was the turnaround ?

Thanks again for the detailed responses. Hoping this clarifies for others too!

Thanks Sunny for the detailed response.

I had a few follow up questions.

A Singapore air agent through online chat told me I am ineligible to go out if my transit is less than 72 hours. So I ended up calling them and they confirmed there is NO such rule and I can go out as long as I have a transit visa, and they even clarified my original US based Covid test is valid for the Singapore india leg as long as it’s within 72 hours.

1. Can you please confirm you did not fill out a second air suvidha for the Singapore india leg with the new result form Singapore ?

2.How did you transit out – did you need a transit visa and if so was it a visa free transit facility for Indians with a valid USA/Canada/Schengen visa ? I have used this multiple times in the past for shorter layovers without any issue but want to confirm if anyone has used it recently.

3.how long did your raffles test take for the results and what was the cost?

Thanks again for the prompt responses!

What is the point of testing at non risk country before entering a ‘high risk country’ Singapore?

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Follow our news, recent searches, no mandatory covid-19 tests for singapore travellers to india: high commission of india, advertisement.

The High Commission of India in Singapore says India's health minister only referred to visitors from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Bangkok – contrary to media reports that also named Singapore.

Arriving passengers leave a terminal at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, India on Dec 1, 2021. (Photo: AFP/Punit Paranjpe)

Koh Wan Ting

SINGAPORE: Travellers from Singapore will not need to undergo mandatory COVID-19 tests when they visit India, the High Commission of India in Singapore said on Wednesday (Dec 28).

The clarification comes after media reports stated that travellers from Singapore will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result to enter India.

The reports cited India's Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya as saying on Dec 24 that reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests will be made mandatory for passengers from China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand when they arrive in India.

Passengers from those countries will have to undergo thermal screening at airports and be placed under quarantine if they showed symptoms of COVID-19 or tested positive, the reports stated.

Responding to CNA's queries about COVID-19 measures for Singapore travellers visiting India, First Secretary (Political and Press, Information and Culture) of the High Commission of India in Singapore Saswati Dey pointed to a video of the health minister speaking to a media agency about COVID-19 measures for travellers. 

"As is evident from the video, the minister has mentioned only the following destinations: China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Bangkok. Singapore was not mentioned in his statement," said Ms Dey. 

"Any other source you refer to may have erroneously cited incorrect information." 

She also referred to guidelines issued by India's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Dec 22, which state that all travellers should "preferably be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their country".

The guidelines do not specify the countries from which travellers will need to undergo COVID-19 tests. It added that about 2 per cent of total passengers in a flight - except children under 12 years old - will undergo random post arrival testing at the airport.

"Such travellers in each flight shall be identified by the concerned airlines (preferably from different countries). They will submit the samples and shall be allowed to leave the airport thereafter," added the guidelines. 

If travellers’ samples are tested positive, their samples will be sent for genomic testing and they will be treated or isolated. 

For official and verified updates on travel guidelines, it would be safer for people to refer to the health ministry's website , added Ms Dey.

India's government has asked the country's states to keep a lookout for any new variants of the coronavirus and urged people to wear masks in crowded places, citing an increase in COVID-19 cases globally.

BOOKMARK THIS: Our comprehensive coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic and its developments

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India reinstates pre-departure PCR tests for Singapore travellers

Travellers from Singapore and five other Asian countries will need to present a negative PCR test result from 1 January 2023 onwards.

If you’re planning to travel to India from Singapore, or via Singapore in the new year, here’s some bad news: India has decided to reimpose mandatory pre-departure PCR testing on Singapore and five other Asian countries, effective 1 January 2023.

RT-PCR test has been made mandatory for flyers coming from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand from 1st January 2023. They will have to upload their reports on the Air Suvidha portal before travel. — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) December 29, 2022

This was announced yesterday to some significant confusion, not least because the High Commission of India in Singapore came out to rubbish the initial reports , suggesting that sources were “erroneously citing incorrect information”. 

However, the official guidelines by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have now been published, and it includes Singapore as clear as day. 

India reinstates pre-departure PCR testing for selected countries

From 10 a.m IST on 1 January 2023, travellers arriving in India from the following countries will need to present a negative pre-departure PCR test, taken within 72 hours of departure to India. 

• South Korea

The requirement applies regardless of vaccination status. Children under 12 years of age are exempt from pre-departure testing. 

The Indian authorities have clarified that the rule also affects those who are merely transiting in these countries en route to India. 

Negative results must be uploaded on the Air Suvidha portal , along with a declaration of one’s 14-day travel history. 

In addition to pre-departure testing, India recently reinstated a system of randomised on-arrival testing that covers 2% of international arrivals, regardless of country. Such passengers will be identified by the airline. They will provide a sample on arrival at the airport and can leave immediately thereafter, without having to wait for a negative result. 

Why is this happening?

India dropped pre-departure PCR testing for arrivals from Singapore in February 2022, and just last month scrapped vaccination requirements, arrival forms and mandatory mask wearing for all flights. Why reinstate the requirement now, and why Singapore?

While we’ll never know for sure, all signs point to China’s reopening on 8 January 2023. And yes, Singapore isn’t part of China (though back in the 90s many of my magazines from the USA saw fit to add “Singapore, China” to the end of my mailing address), but it together with the other affected Asian countries are popular destinations for Chinese travellers.

Other countries like Italy, Malaysia, Japan and the USA have announced pre-departure test requirements for travellers from China, but India is going one step further by testing individuals from countries that Chinese like to visit!

How much does a PCR test cost?

A pre-departure PCR test in Singapore will cost at least S$50 per person, based on my most recent checks back in July 2022. 

A full guide to pre-departure testing in Singapore, including costs, turnaround times and less invasive non-nasal options can be found below.

Cheapest pre-departure COVID-19 ART and PCR tests in Singapore

It figures that just a few days ago, in my recap of the top 10 MileLion articles of 2022, I mentioned this article and how relieved I was not to have to update it anymore. Fingers crossed I didn’t just jinx it.

With Hong Kong and even China discontinuing testing requirements, I was hoping 2023 would be the year we’d see it disappear altogether for Singaporeans.

India, unfortunately, has other plans. From 1 January 2023, a negative pre-departure PCR test result will be required for Singaporeans once again, adding cost and inconvenience to travel plans.

One hopes this won’t have a cascading effect a la 2020, where governments go all lemmings style and follow the leader in imposing testing requirements that may or may not be based in science. 

• general travel

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Hack: skip the immigration lines in kuala lumpur with priority pass, details: changi terminal 2 northern wing reopens, 10 comments.

The fact that government spokespersons can’t get their act together.. is laughable.

Unfortunately, this is just part of life in the country. The left hand rarely knows what the right hand is doing (or even where the right hand is). Living there for most of my early years, this was standard, so you just get used to it. Unfortunate but most people from there will have the same or similar experience.

A 2023 prediction. Over the next 6 months most countries will re-introduce pre-departure testing (either ART or PCR). It will be the new normal of travel.

A 2023 prediction. Many armchair experts with a predilection for spoonfeeding will flood Milelion.com and make 2023 predictions like they are the second coming.

Visit Japan website:-

After December 30th, those who have stayed in China (within 7 days) and/or those who are entering Japan via a direct flight from China need to have an on-arrival test. Please check the details  here .

man the country is already pathetic in dealing with Covid, no less their vaccination campaign, now this…..who want to visit that place anyway?

18 million people a year pre-COVID. Probably a good idea to keep your misguided conceptions to yourself, you only make yourself look bad. The machinery required to vaccinate over a billion people is nothing short of miraculous, even if that same scale causes issues like the one mentioned.

Out of 18 million, how many are from Singapore? And how many are born in Singapore Citizens?

Singapore is not even implementing any measures yet. Seems like passive reaction will only take place when numbers go up again.

Covid is so 2021. Can’t believe there are so many dumb countries around.

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Singapore travel requirements: rules for entry for Indians

By Condé Nast Traveller

In order to manage travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore has taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of all citizens and visitors. Here’s a list of things one needs to keep in mind before planning a trip to Singapore.

The Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) scheme allows travellers from specific countries to enjoy eased travel guidelines upon entry in Singapore . The VTL scheme has been expanded to include more cities in Malaysia, Indonesia and India. The VTL for India will be extended beyond Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai. Starting 16th March all flights from India to Singapore will be included. 

The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has also said that new VTLs will be launched for Greece and Vietnam.

Here’s what you need to know

• All fully vaccinated travellers can now enter Singapore from most cities in Malaysia , Indonesia and India without quarantine.
• All passengers must possess a negative RT-PCR test administered no more than 72hours prior to their travel to Singapore.
• All passengers travelling from VTL cities/countries need not do an RTPCR on arrival, but can do an unsupervised Antigen Rapid test within 24 hours of landing in Singapore.

Flights to Singapore

Flights to Singapore are available from most major airports in India, including Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai. Airlines including Air India, Singapore Airlines, IndiGo, Vistara are now operational.

Visas to Singapore

Travellers require a visa for tourist or business visits to Singapore. It is advisable to apply for an entry visa within 30 days prior to travelling to Singapore. 

Find Singapore to India flights from SGD319*

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Explore Singapore to India routes with Singapore Airlines

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Explore Singapore Airlines's Top-Pick Destinations

• Hong Kong SAR
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• Entering, Transiting and Departing

Transiting Through Singapore

Singapore is open to all transit travellers with no specific regulations or requirements. However, please note the following points on qualifying as a transit traveller, and possible foreign requirements, to ensure that you have a smooth transit experience. 

Transit travellers are defined as those travelling to another country via Singapore,  without clearing Singapore arrival immigration .

Travellers who intend to clear arrival immigration to enter Singapore, or booked flights which require them to enter Singapore to collect tickets or baggage and check-in again for the connecting flight, are not considered transit travellers . Several Low Cost Carriers require travellers to clear immigration to collect their onward connecting tickets in the Departure Check-In hall. Such travellers should ensure that they fulfil all public health and entry requirements found on the “ Entering Singapore ” page.

If unsure, travellers connecting through Singapore should consult their airline on whether they need to go through immigration, or if they can remain in the transit area to connect to their next flight.

Travellers are advised to check with the appropriate authorities of your destination country/region on what requirements they impose on travellers transiting through Singapore.

Please note that pre-departure COVID-19 testing services are not available in the transit area of Changi Airport. If your destination requires you to take a COVID-19 pre-departure test, you should do so before your transit in Singapore.

Related Links

• Requirements for Entering Singapore
• Visa Requirements
• Visa Free Transit Facility

Singapore Launches 4-day Free Transit Visa for Indians Traveling to & from USA and Other Countries

Singapore has launched a 4-day free transit visa for Indians traveling to the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Switzerland, Japan, Germany, Australia and New Zealand via Singapore International Airport. Those having Indian passports, valid visas issued by any of these destination countries, and confirmed air travel tickets are eligible for the visa free transit facility in Singapore. The 96-hour free transit visa to Singapore can be used only once, either onward flight from India or return flight from any of these countries.

Apart from Indian nationals taking flights to USA, Indian Americans can also make the most of Singapore’s 4-day visa free transit facility though they themselves are not eligible for it. Indians in USA often book flights for their parents, relatives, friends and other family members in India. With the new complimentary free transit visa, the costs of their flights to USA or return flights from USA to India via Singapore will be reduced.

Indians having a single journey visa (SJV) or a multiple entry visa to either of USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, Japan, Switzerland and New Zealand can apply for Singapore’s 96-hour visa free transit facility. Be it a single or multiple journey visa, the visa must be valid for at least one month from the date of entry to Singapore.

Those having single journey visas can avail the 4-day visa free transit stay facility in Singapore even after having utilized the SJV, only during the return journey to India directly from the country that issued the SJV.

At the time of transit entry into Singapore, travelers should have confirmed air tickets to India for the return flight or to USA and other countries for the onward flight departing Singapore within the next 96 hours. The new visa free transit facility in Singapore for Indians cannot be extended beyond 4 days or 96 hours from the date or time of entry into Singapore.

Many US-India flights from San Francisco, Houston, Austin , New York and Boston to Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad are operated via Singapore. Indian Eagle , a trusted travel partner of Indian Americans, books cheap flights from USA to India and vice versa for these routes via Singapore.

Also Check These Air Travel Updates

• Details of New 4-day Free Transit Visa to Qatar
• Senior Citizens can Travel Alone from India to USA
• Air India Announced Direct Flights from Washington DC to Delhi  

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21 thoughts on “ singapore launches 4-day free transit visa for indians traveling to & from usa and other countries ”.

Pls provide detail about 4 days transit visa to USA

We are planning to visit Australia on 28th of March 2018 and returning on 20th of April via Singapore. Will we get 96 hrs free visa? Can we book the returning tickets with a break of 4 days? We have already got Aus visa. Please advise in this regard

Hi Mallikarjun, please do call Indian Eagle’s customer service at the toll-free number 1-800-615-3969 to your query addressed.

Hello I am travelling from kolkata to macau through singapore. I have a 9 hour stop. Can i use the VTF one way and on the way back i will go through a different route and not through singapore.

thanks Karma

Hi. I am going from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Kochi, India. I am indian passport holder I will be in Singapore 14 hours. Do I need any visa to get out of airport? Thanks.

Hi. I am going from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Kochi, India. I

am indian passport holder I will be in Singapore 14 hours. Do I need any visa to get out of airport? Thanks.

Hi Sabith! Are you traveling from Sri Lanka to India via Singapore?

Hello , I have 1 Question , What do you mean by “The 96-hour free transit visa to Singapore can be used only once” ? For lifetime , I can just use this facility only once ? Can you please elaborate ?

I will be traveling from India to USA on H1B Visa and planning to do a stopover of 72hrs in Singapore to meet friends and tour singapore. Looking at this article and https://www.ica.gov.sg/enter-transit-depart/entering-singapore/visa-free-transit-facility website, I understand I can avail visa free transit at Singapore. But can someone who has utilized this facility share their experience that will help a lot of folks.

Hii I m travelling to japan on 1 April via singapore and coming back on 13 april 2023… Willing to stay in Singapore for 2 nights 3 days … what type of visa I should apply . And where can I apply for the 96 hour free visa

Hi Ankita! As per Singapore’s 96-hour visa-free transit scheme, you may be eligible for visa-free transit stay in Singapore if you travel with confirmed flight ticket for onward journey from Singapore. In our knowledge, there is no need to apply in advance. However, it is recommended you check with the airline.

Hi I am travelling from VTZ to Bali via Singapore and from Bali to Auckland. (holding newzealand work visa)do i have to apply for singapore visa?

Leg 1 : VTZ — SIN — BALI Leg 2 : BALI — AUCKland

Hi Vijay! In our knowledge, you don’t need a transit visa for Singapore unless you plan to step out of the airport. Be advised to check the visa requirement with the airline as well.

Hi I am travelling to Australia (My home) from India. I have a 18 hours transit. I hold Indian passport, Can i visit Singapore on the VFTF visa? My husband and kids have Australian passports. Please respond

I have to travel to Singapore for 4 days. I am a resident of France and a citizen of India which means I have long term resident card issues by the European country ( France). I will be travelling from Paris Singapore, the stay duration in Singapore city is 4 days (96 hours). Does this Visa Free Transit Facility applies for my upcoming travel?

Thank you very much for your answer.

Hi Richa! Being an Indian citizen, you are eligible for Singapore’s 96-hour visa free transit facility. However, it is subject to approval by the Immigration officers at Singapore Changi Airport. kindly check our latest article https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/free-singapore-tour-transit-travelers/ .

Hello, My husband and I are Indian citizens and permanent residents (green card holders) from of USA. We are currently visiting India and are planning a 72 hr trip to Singapore. Our tickets are from Hyderabad to Singapore and back with no stops in a third country. Can we still avail of the 96 hour visa free transit facility? Thank you

I am travelling to Indonesia through Singapore.. will I get transit visa and how to apply for the same ?

I am a resident of Poland and a citizen of India which means I have long term resident card issues by the European country ( Poland).On top of it, I also hold a valid USA visa. I will be travelling from Europe to Asia via Singapore, the stay duration in Singapore city is 4 days (96 hours). Does this Visa Free Transit Facility applies for my upcoming travel?

Hi Shilpi! In our knowledge, you are eligible for visa-free transit in Singapore. However, it is recommended that you do also check the authorities of Singapore.

Hello, I am Finnish (finland) permanent resident and holding Indian passport. am I eligible for one day transit to Singapore??. Does this Visa Free Transit Facility applies for my upcoming travel in November?

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