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Just landed at Changi Airport? You’ve arrived at one of the world’s premier airports, renowned for its efficiency, safety, and array of attractions. Whether you’re here to explore the iconic Gardens by the Bay, indulge in shopping along Orchard Road, or savor world-famous hawker cuisine, your Singapore adventure begins the moment you disembark.

To ensure a smooth start to your journey, here’s a comprehensive guide covering immigration procedures, customs regulations, transportation options, and other vital information.

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✈️ Arrival Procedures

1. Immigration & Entry Requirements

• SG Arrival Card (SGAC): All travelers must submit the SGAC with an electronic health declaration within three days prior to arrival. Submission is free and can be completed via the official ICA website or the MyICA Mobile app.jal.co.jp+8ica.gov.sg+8ica.gov.sg+8
• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has at least six months’ validity from the date of arrival.
• Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, a visa may be required. Check the ICA’s visa requirements to determine if this applies to you.ica.gov.sg+1ica.gov.sg+1
• Biometric Clearance: Singapore has implemented an Automated Clearance Initiative (ACI), allowing eligible travelers to use automated lanes for immigration clearance using facial, iris, and fingerprint biometrics. This initiative aims to streamline the immigration process and is part of Singapore’s move towards a passport-free experience. ica.gov.sg+4en.wikipedia.org+4en.wikipedia.org+4

2. Customs & Declarations

• Red and Green Channels: After immigration, proceed through customs. Use the Green Channel if you have nothing to declare. If you’re carrying dutiable or controlled items, use the Red Channel and declare them to the customs officer. customs.gov.sg
• Currency Declaration: If you’re bringing in more than SGD 20,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency), you must declare it using the Physical Currency and Bearer Negotiable Instruments (CBNI) Report.ica.gov.sg+2visitsingapore.com+2ica.gov.sg+2
• Prohibited Items: Items such as chewing gum, e-cigarettes, and certain publications are prohibited. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Singapore Customs guidelines.customs.gov.sg+2customs.gov.sg+2customs.gov.sg+2

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🧭 Post-Immigration Essentials

3. Connectivity

• Free Wi-Fi: Connect to #WiFi@Changi for complimentary internet access throughout the airport.
• SIM Cards & eSIMs: Purchase tourist SIM cards or eSIMs from providers like Singtel, StarHub, or M1 at the airport. Plans typically range from SGD 12 to SGD 50, offering data, local calls, and other perks.

4. Currency Exchange

• Singapore Dollar (SGD): Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available in all terminals. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or in places where cards aren’t accepted.

5. Transportation to the City

• MRT (Mass Rapid Transit): The Changi Airport MRT Station (CG2) connects to the city center. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
• Taxis: Available 24/7, with fares to the city ranging from SGD 25 to SGD 40, depending on distance and time of day.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Apps like Grab and Gojek are widely used in Singapore for convenient transportation.
• Airport Shuttle: Shared shuttle services are available to most hotels for around SGD 10.

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🏙️ Orientation for Tourists

6. Weather

• Climate: Singapore has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 27°C to 33°C. Sudden rain showers are common, so carrying a small umbrella or poncho is recommended.

7. Safety & Laws

• General Safety: Singapore is known for its low crime rate and strict law enforcement.
• Regulations: Be aware of strict laws against littering, jaywalking, and smoking in non-designated areas. Importing chewing gum is prohibited. Drug offenses carry severe penalties, including the death penalty.
• Emergency Numbers: Dial 999 for police assistance and 995 for ambulance or fire services.

8. Language & Signage

• Languages: English is the main language used for communication and signage. Other official languages include Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil.
• Communication: Most locals are proficient in English, often spoken with a local accent known as “Singlish.”

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🗺️ Tourist Essentials

9. Must-Have Apps

• Grab: For ride-hailing and food delivery services.
• Google Maps / Citymapper: For navigation and public transport information.
• Chope / HungryGoWhere: For restaurant reservations and reviews.
• MyTransport.SG: Provides real-time information on buses and trains.
• VisitSingapore Travel Guide: Official guide for attractions, events, and itineraries.

10. Power Plugs

• Type G: Singapore uses the UK-style Type G power plug, with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz.

11. Connectivity

• Public Wi-Fi: Available in many public areas, including malls and MRT stations.
• Mobile Data: Tourist SIM cards provide extensive 4G/5G coverage throughout the country.

12. Local Etiquette

• Public Behavior: Queueing is customary, especially for public transport. Keep to the left on escalators to allow others to pass.
• Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting temples or mosques, and remove shoes before entering.

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🏨 Accommodation

13. Booking & Check-In

• Reservations: Most hotels accept major credit cards. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Check-In Times: Standard check-in is from 2 PM onwards. Early check-in may be available upon request and could incur additional charges.

14. Types of Accommodation

• Budget: Hostels and capsule hotels range from SGD 30 to SGD 50 per night.
• Mid-Range: 3-star hotels typically cost between SGD 80 and SGD 150 per night.
• Luxury: High-end hotels start from SGD 200 per night.
• Popular Areas: Consider staying in neighborhoods like Chinatown, Bugis, Orchard Road, or Little India for easy access to attractions and public transport.

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For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to official sources:

• Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA): https://www.ica.gov.sg
• Changi Airport Arrival Guide: https://www.changiairport.com/en/fly/arrival-guide.html
• Singapore Customs Guide for Travellers: https://www.customs.gov.sg/files/individuals/guide-to-travellers-english-2022.pdf

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