Owais Crawford
Singapore Changi Airport is frequently ranked as one of the best airports in the world, and for good reason. The airport offers a range of facilities and attractions for passengers in transit, including a free Singapore Tour jointly organised by Singapore Airlines, the Singapore Tourism Board, and the Changi Airport Group. However, some passengers have reported negative experiences during their transit at Changi Airport, including being required to remain onboard during their layover and facing unexpected restrictions. It is important for passengers to be aware of the relevant border requirements and restrictions, as well as their flight itineraries, to ensure a smooth transit experience in Singapore.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Transit Time | Should not exceed 48 hours |
| Visa Requirements | 96-hour Visa Free Transit for eligible countries, including India and the People's Republic of China |
| Vaccination Requirements | Not required, but recommended to check destination's entry requirements |
| Covid-19 Testing | Not required, but recommended to check destination's entry requirements |
| Transit Activities | Explore the city with the Free Singapore Tour, or enjoy the amenities within Changi Airport |
| Transit Accommodations | Transit hotels available |
| Lounge Access | May not be available for all passengers |
| Baggage | May need to collect and re-check baggage for connecting flights |
| Boarding Process | May be asked to remain onboard until escorted by airport staff |
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Visa requirements
When transiting through Singapore Changi Airport, visa requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your layover.
If you are a transit traveller from eligible countries, including India and the People's Republic of China, and hold a valid onward ticket, you may qualify for a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit, which permits a stay of up to 96 hours in Singapore. However, it is important to note that entry eligibility will be assessed by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers when you arrive.
For some nationalities, a visa is required for transiting through Singapore. For example, starting in 2025, travellers from the UK will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for entry or transit unless they hold a UK visa or are a British/Irish citizen. It is important to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality before travelling.
Additionally, if you intend to leave the airport during your layover, you will need to fulfil all public health and entry requirements to enter Singapore. This may include providing proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test, depending on the requirements at the time of your transit.
It is recommended to check the latest travel advisories and visa requirements before your journey to ensure a smooth transit through Singapore Changi Airport.
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Boarding procedures
When transiting through Singapore Changi Airport, there are several procedures to be aware of. Firstly, it is important to note that transit passengers are not required to be vaccinated or take a pre-departure Covid-19 test. However, travellers intending to enter Singapore during their layover must fulfil all public health and entry requirements. This includes having a valid visa, depending on your passport and country of origin. It is advised to check the destination's entry requirements before travelling to ensure a smooth journey.
Upon arrival at Changi Airport, follow the directional signs to navigate to the designated boarding gates for your next flight. Before proceeding to the boarding gate, passengers are required to undergo security screening. During this process, you will need to present any necessary documentation, such as your boarding pass and passport, for inspection. Ensure that you have all the required documents beforehand to avoid any delays or issues with boarding.
For passengers with connecting flights, it is crucial to know which terminal to go to and how to get there. If you have booked your connecting flight on a separate itinerary or with a different airline, you will need to pass through Arrival Immigration and may be required to collect your checked baggage and check in again for your connecting flight. This may involve interacting with the designated transfer desk area to obtain the necessary boarding pass. Some airlines may have specific procedures or requirements for transit passengers, so it is recommended to check with your airline for detailed information.
Additionally, transit passengers may be provided with specific amenities or services during their layover. Some airlines or airports offer transit lounges or transit hotels for passengers with extended layovers. However, access to such facilities may vary depending on your airline, booking class, and the specific offerings of the airport. It is advisable to check with your airline or the airport beforehand to understand the options available during your transit through Singapore Changi Airport.
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Lounge access
The Ambassador Transit Lounge, located in Terminals 2 and 4, provides a spacious and cosy environment with printing services, workstations, a gym, shower facilities, beauty and massage services, and private napping suites. The Blossom Lounge in Terminal 4 offers similar amenities, including catering services, shower facilities, and a hospitality area for manicures, pedicures, and beverages.
For those seeking a unique setting, The Garden Lounge at Hub & Spoke offers an alfresco dining experience with a 20% discount on food and drinks for travellers presenting a valid boarding pass or proof of itinerary. The DBS Private Access Lounges in Terminals 2 and 3, and Blossom – SATS & Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal 4, also offer paid access through credit card memberships or lounge programmes.
Priority Pass, LoungeKey, LoungePass, and DragonPass holders are accepted with a valid boarding pass and receive three hours of access, including showers but excluding nap rooms. It is recommended to check specific lounge policies and pricing in advance, as access may be subject to restrictions such as dress codes or membership programmes.
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Covid-19 restrictions
As of 22 February 2022, Singapore Changi Airport no longer requires transit passengers to present a negative COVID-19 test or remain within a Transit Holding Area. However, passengers must still comply with general entry requirements. All travellers, except those transiting/transferring through Singapore without seeking immigration clearance, must submit the SG Arrival Card within three days of arrival. Upon arrival, travellers must present their travel documents to the immigration officer.
Passengers from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Phnom Penh can transit through Singapore to nine onward destinations if their connection is within 48 hours. Transiting passengers are required to book the full journey in one booking and check that they meet the entry requirements for their destination. At check-in, passengers will receive a wristband, which they must wear throughout their journey for identification by airport and airline staff.
All passengers arriving in Singapore must wear a mask at all times and practise social distancing.
If you are transiting through Singapore to Australia, duty-free liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) purchased from previous sectors are not permitted, even if they are in sealed bags. For Singapore Airlines flights to Australia, these items must be collected via gate delivery at Changi Airport. Any LAG items that do not meet the requirements will be disposed of by screening officers at the gatehold room.
For flights from Singapore to Australia or the US, duty-free liquid, aerosol, and gel items are allowed if purchased on board or delivered by duty-free staff to the gate-hold room in a sealed bag. If you are entering Australia or the US via transit in Singapore, you will not be allowed to carry duty-free items purchased from previous sectors.
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Things to do
Yes, you can transit in Singapore Changi Airport. Here are some things to do while transiting through the airport:
Explore the Airport
Changi Airport has been ranked as one of the best airports in the world, offering a range of facilities and attractions for transit passengers. The airport boasts a unique blend of nature and retail, with iconic landmarks, rich heritage, and hidden local gems to discover.
Join a Free Singapore Tour
You can sign up for the Free Singapore Tour, jointly organized by Singapore Airlines, the Singapore Tourism Board, and the Changi Airport Group. This is a great opportunity to discover the charm of Singapore and explore some of its famous attractions during your layover.
Shopping and Dining
Changi Airport offers a wide range of shopping and dining options to suit every taste and budget. You can take advantage of exclusive deals and benefits, such as GST-absorbed purchases, by shopping with the Changi Rewards card.
Relax and Unwind
Make sure to pre-purchase any meals, in-flight Wi-Fi, or sleep essentials you may need during your transit to avoid boredom or restlessness. The airport also offers a variety of lounges and rest areas for passengers to relax and recharge before their next flight.
Know the Transit Requirements
It's important to note that transit passengers may be required to follow certain measures, such as providing proof of vaccination or undergoing COVID-19 testing, depending on their destination's entry requirements. Additionally, transit time in Singapore is typically limited to 48 hours, and eligible travellers may qualify for a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit.
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Frequently asked questions
No, transit passengers are not required to be vaccinated or take a pre-departure Covid-19 test to transit in Changi Airport. However, travellers are advised to check with the destination’s entry requirements.
No, transit passengers are not required to take a Covid-19 test to transit in Changi Airport. However, travellers are advised to check with the destination’s entry requirements.
Transit travellers from eligible countries, including India and the People’s Republic of China, holding valid onward air tickets, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit.
Changi Airport has been ranked as one of the best airports in the world, partly due to the things you can do in transit. You can discover Singapore's charm during your transit with the Free Singapore Tour jointly organised by Singapore Airlines, Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group.
You will need to know which terminal to go to and how to get there. You will need to pass through Arrival Immigration - with a valid visa (depending on your passport). You will not be able to board your flight if you do not have the necessary documents.
