Owais Crawford
Singapore Changi Airport is a major international hub with four terminals, and it takes at least 10 minutes to travel between them. The airport uses innovative technology to deliver a personalised experience. When transiting, travellers should follow directional signs to their designated boarding gates and transfer desks to obtain their boarding passes for onward flights. They will also need to go through security screening. Travellers from certain countries, including India and China, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa-Free Transit. However, all travellers must meet border requirements and entry criteria, with eligibility assessed by Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers.
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What You'll Learn
Visa requirements for transiting passengers
Singapore does not require visas for transit passengers as long as they remain within the transit area of Changi Airport (Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4) and do not pass through Singapore Immigration. However, some airlines may not have the necessary transfer facilities, in which case, passengers may be required to pass through Singapore Immigration and will need to obtain a visa prior to travel.
The Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF) allows nationals from certain countries to transit in Singapore for up to 96 hours without a visa. This includes nationals from:
- Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS): Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, 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
To be eligible for the VFTF, travellers must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity from the date of departure from Singapore
- Have a valid onward air/ferry/cruise ticket departing Singapore within 96 hours
- Possess a valid visa or long-term pass (valid for at least one month from the date of entry into Singapore under the VFTF) issued by specific countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America
- Present proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay
It is important to note that the VFTF can only be used once, either on the forward or return trip, and extension of stay is strictly not allowed. The entry eligibility under the VFTF is determined by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry.
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Navigating Changi Airport
Singapore Changi Airport is a major gateway to the wider Asia region and a favoured layover point for long-haul flights between Europe and Australia and New Zealand. It has been named the world's best airport numerous times and is regarded as one of the world's best international transit hubs.
Getting to Changi Airport
To get to Changi Airport via public transport, you can take either of the following train routes:
- East-West Line to Tanah Merah MRT Station (EW4/CG), then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2)
- Downtown Line to Expo MRT Station (CG1/DT35), then transfer to Changi Airport MRT Station
The Changi Airport MRT Station is directly linked to Terminals 2 and 3. Alternatively, you can take a bus, taxi, or drive to the airport.
Navigating the Airport
Upon arriving at Changi Airport, follow the directional signs to get to the designated transfer desk area to obtain the boarding pass for your onward flight. You will then need to go through security screening before heading to the boarding gate. It is recommended that you allow for a minimum of two hours of transit time to ensure you can pass through security and get to your departure gate in good time.
Things to Do During Transit
Changi Airport offers plenty of seating areas, shops, and eateries for those with shorter transit times. For those with longer layovers, there are dedicated snooze lounges in each terminal. Terminal 2 features the Sanctuary and Oasis lounges, while Terminal 3 boasts a butterfly garden with 1,000 tropical butterflies and an Enchanted Garden. The Jewel also features expansive green spaces with 65,000 plants. Additionally, some airlines offer transit passengers the chance to take a 2.5-hour city tour of Singapore, provided you have a transit time of at least 5.5 hours.
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Connecting to other airlines
Singapore Changi Airport is well-regarded for its efficiency and the ease with which travellers can connect to other airlines. The airport has four terminals, and it takes at least 10 minutes to travel between them. It is recommended that travellers connecting to other flights allocate at least two hours for their transfer.
If you are connecting to other airlines, 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 without the necessary documents. If you have booked your connecting flight on the same itinerary, or you have seamless transfers with eligible partner airlines, you will not need to clear arrival immigration or check in again for your connecting flight, so you won't need a visa to enter Singapore.
If you are travelling with checked luggage, you may need to collect your baggage and undergo the entire check-in and customs process again to receive your onward boarding pass. Even when you have a connecting journey with two different airlines in a single booking, you may need to pay separate excess baggage fees for each flight.
Some airlines have interline agreements, and they may be able to check your baggage through to your final destination if you show them your second ticket details. It is worth calling the airlines to see if they can link two separate bookings.
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Things to do at the airport
Singapore Changi Airport is a tourist attraction in itself, with enough activities to keep travellers entertained for hours. It is ranked as the world's top airport for six years running and is the best airport for a layover in Southeast Asia. If you have a long layover in Singapore, here are some things you can do at the airport:
Explore the Gardens
Singapore Airport has several gardens where you can relax and unwind during your layover. The Butterfly Garden in Terminal 3 is home to over 1,000 butterflies fluttering among colourful flowers and plants. There is also a tranquil waterfall in this hidden sanctuary. If you prefer a drier climate, there is the Cactus Garden in Terminal 1, which features an open-air bar and occasionally live music. The Sunflower Garden in Terminal 2 offers a beautiful array of sunflowers and a great view for plane watching. Lastly, the Enchanted Garden, also in Terminal 2, features soothing bird sounds triggered by sensors.
Experience the Rain Vortex
The Rain Vortex is a seven-story-tall indoor waterfall housed in a glass and steel dome, allowing natural light to create the perfect backdrop for photos. It is surrounded by thousands of trees and plants and is located near the Arrival Hall in Terminal 1.
Take Advantage of Entertainment Options
Singapore Changi Airport's Entertainment Hall offers various video games and movies to keep you entertained during your layover. Additionally, there are movie theatres in Terminals 2 and 3, where you and your family can catch the latest films from different genres for free.
Stay Active with Yoga and Pilates
To energise yourself during your layover, you can participate in yoga, pilates, or Barre-less Barre classes offered at the beautifully designed Canopy Park.
Go Swimming
Take a dip in the rooftop swimming pool located at the Singapore Airport transit hotel in Terminal 1. It's a great way to relax, cool off, and soak up some sun before your flight.
Explore Singapore Independently
If you have a longer layover and want to explore beyond the airport, you can easily get into the city centre and experience Singapore's vibrant culture, cuisine, and attractions. Mass transit in Singapore is efficient and affordable, and taxis are readily available at the airport. Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands are recommended starting points for independent exploration.
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Border requirements
When transiting through Singapore Changi Airport, it is important to be aware of the relevant border requirements and restrictions. These requirements may vary depending on your nationality, passport, and country of departure. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
Firstly, if you are a transit traveller from eligible countries, such as India or the People's Republic of China, holding a valid onward air ticket, you may qualify for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit. This permits a short stay of up to 96 hours in Singapore without a visa. However, entry eligibility will be assessed by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers when you arrive, so it is important to have all the necessary documentation.
If your connecting flight is with a different airline, you may need to pass through Arrival Immigration and will require a valid visa, depending on your passport and nationality. It is important to ensure that you have the correct visa or travel authorisation for your specific situation, as you will not be able to board your flight without the necessary documents.
Additionally, some countries have specific requirements for transit passengers. For example, starting in 2025, the UK will require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for transit unless you hold a UK Visa or are a British/Irish citizen. It is always recommended to check the specific requirements for your country of origin and transit.
It is also important to note that transit measures and requirements may differ for passengers from countries/regions where Singapore has unilaterally lifted border restrictions. These exemptions may impact the documentation and visa requirements for specific nationalities. Therefore, it is essential to stay informed about the latest updates and advisories for your particular situation.
Lastly, keep in mind that Singapore has implemented precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of travellers during the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures may include specific entry and transit criteria, such as health declarations, vaccination requirements, or testing protocols. Always check for the latest COVID-19 related travel information and advisories before your journey.
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Frequently asked questions
Singapore Changi Airport is known for its efficiency, but it is still recommended that you check in early for your next flight. Follow the directional signs to get to the designated boarding gate for your next flight and go through security screening.
Go to the Transit Counter in the Transit Area of the Terminal you're departing from and they will provide you with your boarding pass and ask about checked-in luggage from your previous flight. They will then transfer your luggage to your next flight.
Changi Airport has been ranked as one of the best airports in the world, with plenty of things to do during a layover. You can explore Singapore's charm by joining the Free Singapore Tour jointly organised by Singapore Airlines, Singapore Tourism Board and Changi Airport Group. You can also enjoy exclusive benefits and privileges with the Changi Rewards card.
Transit travellers from eligible countries, including India and the People's Republic of China (PRC), holding valid onward air tickets, may qualify for a 96-hour Visa Free Transit, permitting a stay of up to 96 hours in Singapore. Entry eligibility will be assessed by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers at the point of entry.
