Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
- Reviewed: 14 December 2021, 16:44 NZDT
- Still current at: 14 December 2021
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We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.
The global situation remains complex. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly, particularly in response to new variants of concern. Should you decide to travel overseas at this time, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses. Talk to your insurer about how sudden changes to the international travel environment might affect your insurance.
Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
Travellers to New Zealand may be required to enter government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). The length of your stay in MIQ may depend on where you are travelling from. Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.
Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
Most travellers must have a negative pre-departure test result and approved documentation to enter New Zealand. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website here.
We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.
Singapore
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat in Singapore. The Singaporean Government has put in place enhanced security measures to combat terrorism, including strong border controls and police surveillance. New Zealanders in Singapore should monitor any developments that may affect their safety, remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities.
Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching, passport theft and pickpocketing can occur in Singapore, for example in tourist areas, airports, hotels and on public transport. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.
Air pollution
Smoke haze from fires in neighbouring countries periodically causes high pollution readings in Singapore. Some of the most common health effects include irritation of eyes, throat and lungs. For people with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis, breathing in particle pollution can make these conditions worse. For more information on pollution readings in Singapore refer to Singapore’s National Environment Agency.
General travel advice
New Zealanders travelling to Singapore should ensure that they have at least six months’ validity on their passports, which is a requirement for entry. Singapore does not recognise dual nationality (over the age of 21). This may limit your access to New Zealand consular assistance. New Zealand consular assistance will be provided to those who entered Singapore on a New Zealand passport and who do not hold Singapore citizenship. Travellers should read our advice on dual citizenship here.
It is recommended that New Zealanders travelling to Singapore familiarise themselves with local laws and customs. There are serious penalties for some acts that may not be illegal or inappropriate in New Zealand.
New Zealanders are urged to take note of Singapore’s strict, and stringently enforced, laws against the possession, use or sale of illegal substances. Severe penalties for drug offences include the death sentence and caning.
Offences related to drunk or disorderly conduct, including inappropriate behaviour under Singapore’s ‘Outrage of Modesty’ law, can also result in strict penalties. Passports must be presented if asked for by local authorities. Photography of certain government buildings and military installations is prohibited.
New Zealanders travelling or living in Singapore should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Singapore are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Travel tips
The New Zealand High Commission Singapore, Singapore
Street Address 1 George Street, Level 21-04, Singapore 049145 Telephone +65 6235 9966 Fax +65 6536 8180 Email https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/asia/singapore/new-zealand-high-commission-singapore/ Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/singapore Hours Reception/Consular hours Mon – Fri 0900 – 1300hrs. Office hours Mon – Fri 0830-1700
See our regional advice for South East Asia
