Singapore arrivals,
now almost hands-free
File the free arrival card, walk through the biometric lanes, check in somewhere spectacular.
This guide is for travelers stopping in or flying to Singapore. Two things to know. First, all travelers (except those transiting without clearing immigration) must submit the SG Arrival Card with electronic health declaration within 3 days before arrival — including the arrival day — and it is free on the official MyICA portal or the MyICA Mobile app. Second, Singapore's ICA says automated lanes have replaced manual immigration counters at all major checkpoints, and all travelers, including first-time foreign visitors, can use them without prior enrolment. Below: how it works, and Singapore's leading five-star hotels.
What is the SG Arrival Card and when do I submit it?
ICA, Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority, says you must submit the SGAC within 3 days (including the day of arrival) before you arrive. Its example: arriving on 30 June, you can submit from 28 June onwards.
- Cost: free. ICA says it does not support or endorse any commercial entity that charges a fee to submit on your behalf.
- Where: the MyICA portal or the free MyICA Mobile app, whose saved profile can auto-fill future trips.
- Who doesn't need it: travelers transiting or transferring through Singapore without clearing immigration.
How do Singapore's automated immigration lanes work?
Under ICA's New Clearance Concept, automated lanes use the Multi-Modal Biometrics System, capturing face, iris and/or fingerprints of travelers aged 6 and above.
- Scan your passport at the first gantry.
- Step in when the first flapper opens.
- Look between the blue arrows for face and iris scanning; place your right thumb on the scanner if prompted.
- Exit when the second flapper opens.
Departing? ICA says foreign visitors can also use token-less clearance when departing by air or sea — biometrics only, no passport scan. Travelers with children under 6 use the wider Special Assistance Lanes, which take family groups of up to 4.
Tips for a smooth arrival
- Remove sunglasses, caps and face masks at the lane, and avoid colored or patterned contact lenses.
- Keep your passport handy anyway — ICA notes an officer may ask for it.
- Submit the SGAC on the official channels only, and only within the 3-day window.
Where to stay in Singapore for a luxury trip
- Marina Bay — skyline and bay views, Gardens by the Bay and the waterfront promenade.
- Civic District and the Colonial Core — heritage grand hotels, museums and the Padang.
- Orchard Road — the shopping boulevard, dressed in lights for the holidays.
- Sentosa — resort-style stays with beaches, ideal for families.
Singapore's year-end Christmas light-up on Orchard Road makes November and December a festive time for a city stay or stopover.
Where this information comes from
We checked these official pages on November 8, 2026. Rules can change, so please confirm before you travel:
- Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) — SG Arrival Card with Electronic Health Declaration
- Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) — Automated Lanes at the Passenger Halls
🏨 Five-star hotels in Singapore (live Agoda rates) (14)
Five-star only, ranked by nightly price. Live Agoda rates for 2 adults, taxes and fees included, checked 2026-11-08 — confirm the live rate on Agoda.
🌃 Where to stay in Singapore
🍜 Worth planning around
❓ Frequently asked questions
Is the SG Arrival Card free?
Yes. ICA says submitting the SGAC is free and that it does not endorse commercial entities that charge a fee to submit on your behalf.
When should I submit the SG Arrival Card?
Within 3 days before arrival, including the arrival day. Arriving on 30 June, you can submit from 28 June.
Can first-time visitors use Singapore's automated lanes?
Yes. ICA says all travellers, including first-time foreign visitors, can use the automated lanes at the passenger halls without prior enrolment.
Do I need my passport at Singapore immigration?
Arriving visitors scan their passport at the automated lane. Foreign visitors can use token-less biometric clearance when departing by air or sea, but ICA says you must still bring your passport.
Do transit passengers need the SG Arrival Card?
Not if they transit or transfer through Singapore without clearing immigration.
Which area is best for a luxury stay in Singapore?
Marina Bay for skyline views, the Civic District for heritage grand hotels, Orchard Road for shopping, or Sentosa for a resort stay.
Some links are Agoda affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Hotel rates were checked on Agoda and change often. Entry details are summarized from ICA's official pages as of November 8, 2026 — please confirm before you travel.