Traffic flow through Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints has returned to approximately 80% of pre-COVID-19 levels. In fact, during peak periods, the volume has reached pre-COVID-19 levels. Close to a million travellers passed through the two checkpoints over the most recent weekend (4 November to 6 November 2022).

2           ICA anticipates even heavier traffic during the year-end school holiday period between 17 November 2022 (Thursday) and 2 January 2023 (Monday). At the peak of the year-end school holiday period in 2019, the waiting time for travellers departing or arriving by car via the land checkpoints was about three hours. The public may thus wish to plan their travel judiciously, to avoid being caught in traffic congestion.

3.          In this regard, they are advised to factor in additional time for immigration clearance and avoid the following peak hours between 17 November 2022 and 2 January 2023:

Things to note for a smoother journey

4.          Before embarking on their journey, motorists are advised to check the traffic situation at the land checkpoints through the Land Transport Authority (LTA)’s One Motoring website or via the Expressway Monitoring & Advisory System installed along the BKE and AYE. Motorists can also get updates through ICA’s Facebook and Twitter accounts, as well as local radio broadcasts on Money 89.3, Kiss92, One 91.3, Hao 96.3, UFM 100.3.

5.          Travellers are reminded to note the following:

i) They should ensure their passport has a remaining validity of at least six months.

ii) Singapore permanent residents who have renewed their passport will have to transfer their Re-Entry Permit to the new passport.

iii) Long-term pass holders, who include Employment Pass holders, S pass holders, Work Permit holders, Student’s Pass holders, Long-Term Visit Pass holders and Dependant’s Pass holders, will need to notify ICA or the Ministry of Manpower of any change in their passport particulars.

iv) All short-term visitors, including holders of in-principle approval for long-term pass, are required to submit their Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC)^[1] with health declaration^[2] within three days prior to their arrival in Singapore. Due to the high volume of traffic and daily commuting for employment and studies, Singapore residents (Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders) are exempted from submitting a health declaration¹ if they are returning to Singapore via the land checkpoints. They will have to do so if they enter Singapore via the sea and air checkpoints.

v) Drivers of foreign-registered vehicles entering Singapore must have a valid Vehicle Entry Permit, the LTA approval email, and an Autopass card.

Comply with other requirements

6.          Travellers should not bring in prohibited items. Those bringing in dutiable or controlled items must proactively declare them to our officers prior to being checked.

7.          Departing travellers driving Singapore-registered cars are reminded to observe the “three-quarter tank” rule. Offenders may be issued with a composition sum of up to $500 or prosecuted in court. They will be turned back at the checkpoints, and not allowed to proceed with their journey into Malaysia.

Clearance efficiency without compromising security

8.          ICA will endeavour to facilitate immigration clearance without compromising security. We seek travellers’ understanding and cooperation to be patient, observe traffic rules, maintain lane discipline, and cooperate with officers on-site when using the land checkpoints.

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
15 NOVEMBER 2022