Traffic flow over the recent weekend (16 December to 18 December 2022) through Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints has returned to approximately 84% of pre-COVID-19 levels. At peak hours, the volume has reached pre-COVID-19 levels. More than one million travellers passed through both land checkpoints at the same period, with about 359,000 crossing daily. Over the past weekend at Woodlands Checkpoint, departure traffic was very heavy with continuous tailbacks to BKE due to tailback from the Causeway.

2           At the peak of the holiday season in 2019, the average waiting time for travellers departing or arriving by car via the land checkpoints was about three hours. ICA anticipates continuous heavy traffic at both land checkpoints with the upcoming holiday season and tailbacks are expected to reach both BKE and AYE.

3.          Those who wish to travel via the land checkpoints by car or bus this holiday season are advised to factor in additional time for immigration clearance as the traffic volume is generally high and long delays are expected.

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.          Motorists are also reminded to avoid queue cutting as it can cause severe congestion and compromise the safety of other motorists. Motorists are advised to observe traffic rules, maintain lane discipline, and cooperate with officers on-site.

6.          Travellers by bus who are eligible to use the automated lanes at the passenger halls are encouraged to do so.

7.          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 declaration 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

8.          Travellers should not bring in prohibited items such as weapons or imitation tobacco products (electronic cigarettes, vaporisers). Those bringing in dutiable or controlled items such as tobacco products must proactively declare them to our officers prior to being checked.

9.          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

10.          ICA will continue 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
19 DECEMBER 2022