Exploring Changi: Access For Visitors

can visitors enter changi airport

Singapore Changi Airport is one of the world's most well-known aviation hubs, offering a range of attractions and facilities for travellers and layover passengers. The airport boasts a butterfly garden, movie theatre, gaming hub, and even a Canopy Park. In addition to these unique features, Changi Airport also provides early check-in services, allowing passengers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight. The airport has implemented innovative technologies to enhance the traveller experience, such as analytical tools to improve services and marketing. Changi Airport also offers a range of shopping and dining options, with exclusive benefits for those with a Changi Rewards card. For those with connecting flights, Changi Airport provides Transit Holding Areas with comfortable seating, snooze areas, and light entertainment. With its focus on convenience and innovation, Changi Airport has raised the bar for airport experiences.

Characteristics Values
Location Singapore
Airport Code SIN
Check-in Up to 24 hours before departure
Entry Requirements All passengers must have a valid boarding pass or travel documents, and submit an electronic Health Declaration Card (eHDC)
Transit Requirements Transit travellers from eligible countries, including India and China, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit
Amenities Restaurants, shops, snooze areas, light entertainment, tax-free purchases, butterfly garden, movie theatre, gaming hub, bicycle parking
Currency Reporting Passengers carrying more than S$20,000 must report to the immigration officer
GST GST waiver is not applicable; proceed to Terminal 1 or 3 for assistance
Drone Usage Requires a permit from CAAS and approval from Jewel Changi Airport

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Foreign visitors need an electronic Health Declaration Card and valid travel documents

Foreign visitors intending to enter Singapore Changi Airport must adhere to specific requirements. Notably, they need to submit an electronic Health Declaration Card (eHDC) and possess valid travel documents.

The eHDC is a crucial component of the arrival process. Foreign visitors must submit this electronic document via the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) e-Service before clearing immigration. This can be done through the myICA Mobile app or the designated website. Additionally, foreign visitors are required to have their passports and, if applicable, Permits/Entry Visas readily available. These documents are essential for a seamless immigration clearance process upon arrival at Changi Airport.

It is worth noting that the paper-based disembarkation and embarkation card system for foreign visitors has been discontinued since March 27, 2020. Instead, foreign visitors are expected to provide their arrival information through the SGAC e-Service. This digital approach streamlines the arrival process and ensures that foreign visitors have the necessary documentation before entering Singapore via Changi Airport.

In addition to the eHDC and valid travel documents, foreign visitors should be aware of other important considerations. For instance, if they are carrying more than S$20,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency, they must report it to the immigration officer upon arrival. This requirement applies to both entering and exiting Singapore through Changi Airport.

Furthermore, foreign visitors transiting through Changi Airport should follow specific guidelines. If their airline does not offer a baggage transfer service, they must clear Arrival Immigration and collect their baggage before checking in for their connecting flight. It is advised to contact the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) for detailed information on entry and visa requirements to ensure a smooth transit experience.

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Transit travellers from eligible countries may qualify for a 96-hour visa-free stay

Changi Airport in Singapore offers a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) for transit travellers from eligible countries. This allows travellers to stay in Singapore for up to 96 hours without a visa. To be eligible, travellers must hold a valid onward air ticket and meet the entry requirements, which are assessed by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers upon arrival.

Nationals of the following countries are eligible for the VFTF:

  • Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan
  • Georgia
  • India
  • Turkmenistan
  • Ukraine
  • Selected nationals from the People's Republic of China (PRC) who do not hold ordinary, diplomatic, public affairs, or service PRC passports

In addition to the above criteria, travellers must also have a valid visa or long-term pass for the following countries, with a validity of at least one month from the date of entry into Singapore under the VFTF:

  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Germany
  • Japan
  • New Zealand
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America

It is important to note that Single Journey Visa (SJV) holders can only use the VFTF on the return leg of their journey, directly from the visa-issuing country to their home country, without re-entering their home country before transiting. The VFTF is not guaranteed and is subject to the discretion of the ICA officers at the point of entry. Travellers must also comply with any biometric procedures, such as fingerprint, facial, and/or iris scans, during transit immigration checks.

While transiting at Changi Airport, travellers can follow directional signs to rest, dine, and shop within the zone of B and C gates. Temperature checks are conducted at the entrance of the Transit Holding Areas (THAs), where amenities such as comfortable seating, snooze areas, light entertainment, and food and beverage options are available.

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Changi Airport has shopping, dining, and entertainment options

Changi Airport in Singapore offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for visitors to enjoy. The airport has been named the best in the world for foodies, with over 300 dining options across its terminals, offering diverse and premium food and beverage choices. Passengers can enjoy casual bites or exquisite dining experiences, with global cuisines that will satisfy any craving.

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, Changi Airport delivers with exclusive shopping options. From quick purchases to high-end splurges, passengers can take advantage of tax-free shopping and even enjoy the convenience of a shopping concierge service. The airport also offers incentives like the Changi Rewards card, which provides benefits, privileges, and GST-absorbed purchases.

The airport's Early Check-In (ECI) option allows passengers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight, providing ample time to explore the airport's attractions. These include a butterfly garden, movie theatre, gaming hub, and various lounges. Passengers can also access landside restaurants and clear immigration at any of the four terminals, including the natural choice of Terminal 1, which houses the Jewel.

Changi Airport's innovative use of technology further enhances the overall experience. Through the utilisation of cookies and analytical tools, the airport gains insights into site usage, allowing them to improve services and deliver a more personalised experience for travellers. Whether it's dining, shopping, or entertainment, Changi Airport ensures that passengers have a memorable and enjoyable journey.

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Passengers can check in up to 24 hours before departure

Changi Airport's Early Check-In programme allows passengers to check in up to 24 hours before departure. This service is available for over two dozen airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Emirates, Japan Airlines, and Qantas. Passengers can drop off their bags and collect their boarding passes to access shops and lounges after immigration. The Jewel Early Check-in Facility, located on Level 1 of Jewel Changi Airport, is open from 8 am to 11:59 pm daily.

Passengers can also check in online up to 48 hours before departure, allowing them to confirm their presence and select their seats. However, they will still need to drop off their luggage at the designated check-in row in the departures hall. The luggage drop-off service is typically available from 12 to 24 hours before departure, but hours may vary depending on the airline and terminal. After dropping off their luggage, passengers can proceed to the security checkpoint and immigration.

For those who prefer to check in at the airport, Changi offers Early Check-In services for flights departing early in the day. This option provides added convenience, especially for those who want to explore the airport's amenities or avoid last-minute rushes. Check-in counters typically open at least three hours before departure, but many airlines allow early check-in.

It is important to note that some smaller or charter airlines may not provide online check-in services. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines directly for specific online check-in availability and eligibility criteria for priority check-in options. Additionally, when checking in online, passengers should have all necessary documents, including their booking reference, ticket number, passport details, and any required visa information.

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There are baby care rooms and attractions like a butterfly garden

Changi Airport in Singapore is a unique airport that offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the most notable features is the Butterfly Garden, located in Terminal 3. This garden is the first of its kind in an airport, boasting a 6-metre tall grotto waterfall and a lush landscape with over 1,000 tropical butterflies from 40 different species. The two-level design allows visitors to witness these stunning creatures up close, with the upper level providing eye-level views of the butterflies in flight. The garden also includes educational corners and individual enclosures, offering a unique opportunity to observe the breeding and feeding habits of butterflies.

In addition to the Butterfly Garden, Changi Airport also prioritises the needs of travelling families with young children. The airport is equipped with almost 50 Baby Care Rooms conveniently located throughout the terminals and Jewel Changi Airport. These rooms provide a private and soothing space for nursing and changing babies, with amenities such as hot water dispensers, comfortable nursing areas, and baby changing tables. The rooms are meticulously cleaned and maintained to ensure a safe and hygienic environment, and they are also accessible to passengers with disabilities.

The Baby Care Rooms at Changi Airport offer a welcome respite for parents on the go, allowing them to attend to their little ones' needs in a calm and comfortable setting. The rooms are designed with privacy in mind, providing designated areas for breastfeeding and ensuring intimate moments between mother and child away from the bustling airport environment. The nursing rooms also feature cosy seating and a selection of care essentials, enhancing the overall experience for travelling families.

The Butterfly Garden and Baby Care Rooms are just a few examples of how Changi Airport goes beyond aviation services to create engaging and inclusive experiences for its visitors. The airport truly stands out with its array of attractions, making it a destination in itself and offering travellers unique memories that extend beyond their flights. Changi Airport's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is evident in these carefully curated amenities, enhancing the overall airport experience for all types of travellers.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Jewel Changi Airport is located on the landside and is accessible to everyone, including local residents and travellers.

All passengers, including Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, Long-term Pass Holders, and Foreign Visitors, are required to submit the electronic Health Declaration Card (eHDC) before clearing immigration. Foreign visitors will also need to provide their arrival information via the SGAC e-Service.

Changi Airport offers a range of amenities and services for visitors, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options. There is also a butterfly garden, a movie theatre, and a gaming hub. Additionally, visitors can enjoy exclusive benefits and privileges with the Changi Rewards card.

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