Summary

Note: Travellers should be aware that the entry requirements of almost all Asian countries stipulate that passports must be valid for at least six months.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation, before travelling to Singapore. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. 

Travellers should note that the Irish Government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.

You should not become involved with drugs of any kind: possession of even very small quantities can lead to imprisonment or the death penalty.

Safety and Security

Singapore can be considered a safe city, but you should take the usual precautions you would in any country.  You should be aware of the possibility of bag-snatchers.  You should avoid street gatherings and public demonstrations; there are strict laws about how many people can protest in a given location at a particular time.

Local Laws and Customs

Singapore retains a death penalty for certain capital offences, including murder and drug trafficking. There are severe penalties for all drug offences in Singapore. You should not become involved with drugs of any kind: possession of even very small quantities can lead to imprisonment or the death penalty.

The offence of “outrage of modesty” (molestation) can result in a fine, imprisonment jail or corporal punishment. Visitors are advised to avoid any action that could be interpreted as molestation. Scams involving false claims of molestation are thought to exist.

Standards of behaviour in Singapore are generally conservative. If in doubt, seek local advice. Public displays of affection should be avoided. Homosexual activity between men is illegal and penalties include imprisonment. No specific laws are in place for homosexual acts between women, however visitors should be aware of local laws and sensitivities. Racial crimes including verbal and physical abuse may attract severe penalties.

You must show evidence of your identity if it is requested by, for example, the police. You should carry photocopies of the relevant pages of your passport and your arrival card to avoid losing the original, which should be kept in a safe place.

Natural Disasters and Climate

Despite its location in a region prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, flooding, and extreme weather, Singapore has not been directly affected by natural disasters in recent years.

Additional Country Info

Health services in Singapore are top-class.  Prior to departure, you should, however, consult with a doctor to ensure you have any vaccinations required. You should also have comprehensive medical insurance before you travel to Singapore, as treatment and medication can be extremely costly.

Dengue fever is common in Singapore. There are 4,000 to 5,000 reported cases of Dengue fever every year.  You are advised to take adequate precautions against being bitten by mosquitoes.

DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS IN SINGAPORE

Contact details for all Irish Missions (including Honorary Consuls) in Singapore are available here. (Opens in a new window).