Entering Singapore from Malaysia by land is a great way to arrive in the country. But whether you're crossing from Malaysia’s Johor Bahru (JB) to Singapore for work, tourism, or to visit family, understanding the process is essential for a smooth transition.
This page aims to equip you with all the necessary information, including the importance of the SG Arrival Card, to ensure you can effectively navigate Malaysia to Singapore immigration procedures.
How to Cross the Singapore-Malaysia Border
The Singapore-Malaysia border is one of the busiest international borders in the world, with thousands crossing daily for various reasons. The border is well-managed, ensuring safety and efficiency for all travelers.
Two primary checkpoints permit you to enter Singapore from Johor in Malaysia: the Woodlands Checkpoint and the Tuas Checkpoint.
Woodlands Checkpoint
The Woodlands Checkpoint is located at the northern end of Singapore and serves as a major link, connecting JB to Singapore via the Causeway.
It's the older and busier of the two, and often experiences heavy traffic during peak hours and holidays. Travelers choosing this route should be prepared for potential delays and are advised to check traffic conditions before departure.
The checkpoint is equipped to handle both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, making it a popular choice for those traveling by car, motorcycle, bus, or on foot.
Tuas Checkpoint
The Tuas Checkpoint, located on the western side, connects JB to Singapore via the Second Link bridge.
This checkpoint tends to be less congested than Woodlands, offering a smoother crossing experience, particularly for goods vehicles and travelers preferring a faster route.
The Tuas Checkpoint is ideal for those traveling by car or bus and is particularly recommended for those aiming to avoid the heavy traffic commonly found at the Woodlands Checkpoint
Documents Needed to Enter Singapore from Malaysia
Before setting off from JB to Singapore, it's crucial to ensure you meet the entry requirements and check you have all the necessary documents.
These include:
- A valid passport
- An appropriate visa (if required)
- A completed SG Arrival Card.
The SG Arrival Card is an electronic landing card that replaces the traditional paper disembarkation/embarkation card.
It is mandatory for all travelers entering Singapore from Malaysia by land, including Malaysian citizens. You can easily submit your information through the My SG Arrival Card online platform prior to arrival.
Entering Singapore from Malaysia by Car
Crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border by car is a common choice for many due to the convenience and flexibility it offers.
Here are the steps to ensure a smooth entry:
- Ensure Vehicle Compliance: Singapore has strict regulations on foreign vehicles entering the country. Ensure you have a valid Autopass card Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) and a Singapore Land Transport Authority (LTA) approval email. You must also have valid vehicle road tax and insurance coverage.
- Checkpoint Clearance: Upon arrival at either the Woodlands or Tuas checkpoint, present your documents to Malaysia to Singapore immigration personnel. Be prepared to pay any applicable tolls and fees.
- Customs and Duties: Declare any dutiable or prohibited items at the customs checkpoint. Failure to declare items can result in fines or other penalties.
For travelers intending to drive their own vehicles from Johor to Singapore, obtaining the VEP is a crucial step. It serves as a means to pay for entry and exit fees, as well as recording your vehicle’s entry into Singapore.
How to get a VEP for Singapore from Malaysia
You should apply for the VEP/Autopass Card at least 2 weeks before your planned travel date. This can be done through the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) OneMotoring website.
You will then receive a VEP approval email. This approval is only valid for 14 days, so plan your entry into Singapore within this timeframe.
Please note that there are specific times when the VEP fees do not apply:
- Saturdays, Sundays, and Singapore public holidays
- Entry into Singapore from 5.00 pm and exit by 2.00 am the following day
- Entry into Singapore from 12.00 pm and exit by 2.00 am the next day during the June and December Singapore school holidays
For Malaysian cars, the VEP fees are waived for the first 10 days of each calendar year. After these initial 10 days, a daily VEP fee of SGD 35 is applicable for each subsequent day your vehicle remains in Singapore within the same year.
How to enter Singapore from Johor by Bus
For those without a personal vehicle, buses offer a cost-effective means of entering Singapore from Malaysia by land.
Here’s what you need to know about the bus routes and the practical steps involved:
Johor to Singapore (via Woodlands):
- Start your journey at any bus stop in Johor Bahru to reach JB Sentral.
- Proceed to the CIQ complex at JB Sentral for Malaysia to Singapore immigration clearance.
- After clearing immigration, follow signs to the CIQ bus bay area for buses to Singapore.
- Board any Causeway Link bus (e.g., CW1 to Kranji MRT, CW2 to Queen Street, CW5 to Newton Circus) for direct access to the Woodlands Checkpoint.
- Upon arrival at Woodlands, alight for Singapore immigration and customs clearance, carrying any luggage with you.
Johor to Singapore (via Tuas Checkpoint):
- Take a bus from Johor Bahru directly to the Tuas Checkpoint.
- Buses like Causeway Link CW6 (Boonlay), CW3, CW4 (Jurong East Interchange), or CW7 (Tuas MRT Station) are available for this route.
- Ensure you have all necessary travel documents ready for both Malaysian exit and Singapore entry procedures.
If you’re considering crossing the Singapore-Malaysia border multiple times over 2-3 days, we recommend purchasing a Travel Bus Pass. This allows you for unlimited rides on selected Causeway Link buses.
Final Tips for a Smooth Crossing
- Avoid Peak Hours: Border checkpoints can get extremely busy, especially during morning and evening rush hours. Plan your journey to avoid these times if possible.
- Check Traffic Updates: Before departing, check the latest traffic conditions on the Causeway or Second Link. This can help you decide the best time to cross.
- Prepare Your Documents: Have all necessary documents, including your passport and SG Arrival Card confirmation, readily accessible to speed up the immigration process.
By understanding the process and having all necessary documents ready, including the SG Arrival Card, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable crossing of the Singapore-Malaysia border.