travel to singapore with us passport

Singapore Entry Requirements for US Citizens

Tourist Visa Needed

(for stays of up to 90 days)

Arrival Card Needed

SG Arrival Card for citizens of the United States

The Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) was launched in 2019 and is an entry requirement for all foreigners travelling to Singapore, including US citizens. The SGAC is a new generation of travel document that has replaced the paper-based Disembarkation/Embarkation Card, which is no longer available for Singapore.

The arrival card to visit Singapore is an e-service that allows foreign nationals to provide the Singaporean government with essential travel and identity information before they reach the country. The application process is done entirely online in a matter of minutes and does not require a visit to a Singapore embassy or consulate.

When do US citizens need an Arrival Card to visit Singapore?

Although most US citizens do not need a visa to enter the country, anyone travelling to Singapore is still required to obtain an SG Arrival Card. The SGAC can be used at any port of entry to Singapore .

US passport holders can visit Singapore visa-free for a maximum duration of 90 days . If they wish to reside, work, or study in Singapore , US citizens must obtain a Singapore visa from the nearest embassy or consulate. It is important to keep in mind that the SGAC for US nationals is not a visa and cannot be used like one .

SG Arrival Card's entry requirements for the United States

The documentation required in order to obtain an SG Arrival Card as a US citizen is minimal. It includes the following:

• A completed Singapore **arrival card application form**
• A US passport valid for at least 6 months from the intended date of arrival in Singapore
• An **active email address** for receiving communication regarding the Singapore tourist card for the United States
• An unexpired debit or credit card that is authorised for online payments to pay for the Singapore Arrival Card processing fee.

In some cases, additional documentation such as return tickets or other proof of onward travel, evidence of sufficient financial funds to cover the stay in Singapore, and proof of vaccines may be needed. This is decided on a case to case basis. Because the SGAC application is done entirely online, US applicants must also have a stable internet connection and access to a device from which they can apply such as a mobile phone, tablet, or computer.

US passport details when applying for a Singapore Arrival Card

Nationals of the United States must note that it is mandatory to travel to Singapore with the same passport used for the application . The Arrival Card is directly linked to the passport, and if the passport number in the two documents is different, the SGAC may be denied. If a traveller’s passport expires before their SGAC , they will have to apply for a new Singapore arrival card once they renew the passport. This also applies to dual citizens : they have to apply for an SGAC with the same passport that they will use for travelling to Singapore. Should a US visitor present a different passport at the border, their Singapore Arrival Card might be deemed invalid and they may be refused entry.

What is the Singapore Arrival Card application process for US travellers?

Travellers who meet all the SGAC entry requirements for the United States can proceed to fill in the Singapore Arrival Card application form online. Although anyone can assist other family members or friends in completing the application form, each US traveller, including minors, must submit an individual form . The US applicants are asked to provide:

• Personal details (name, gender, nationality, date and place of birth, home address, contact information, and travel plans)
• Essential passport information (passport country, passport number, and dates of issue and expiry of the passport)
• Health declaration.

It is essential that the information in the application form is truthful and error-free , otherwise, the SGAC may be delayed and in some cases refused.

Before they can submit the form, US applicants need to pay for the Singapore Arrival Card processing fee. All major debit and credit cards are accepted as payment methods. Payment is done through a secure online payment system .

The approval will be received by email and can be presented in its electronic form at the port of entry in Singapore, along with the applicant’s US passport.

The SGAC processing time is in most cases less than 24 hours. US citizens are advised to apply for an SG Arrival Card at least 5 days before travelling to Singapore to account for any delays due to public holidays and missing or erroneous information. Applicants from the US should note that although the SG Arrival Card is a mandatory entry document for visitors from the United States, it does not grant permission to enter Singapore. The final decision is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer at the Singapore border, although if all the information provided is correct and matches the one of the travel documents , it is unlikely that any issue arises.

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Visa for Singapore for US Citizens: What You Need to Know

Singapore, known for its modern skyline, rich history, and cultural diversity, is a major travel destination for people from all over the world. For US citizens looking to visit Singapore, understanding the visa requirements is important.

In this short guide, we’ll take you to the requirements and procedures for acquiring a visa for Singapore for US citizens. We’ll also provide a brief overview of the Singapore Arrival Card and how platforms like Natvisa can assist you.

Do US Citizens Require a Visa?

Key points:, singapore arrival card, features of the sg arrival card:, how can natvisa help, conclusions.

Good news for US passport holders! If you’re planning a short trip to Singapore, you do not need to apply for a Singapore visa beforehand. US citizens can enjoy visa-free entry to Singapore for short stays, typically up to 90 days for tourism, business, and social purposes.

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For those with a green card, you can also enjoy a visa-free stay in Singapore for up to 90 days.

• Duration of stay : US passport holders are generally granted a stay of up to 30 days, with the possibility of extensions up to 90 days upon entry. The duration granted is at the discretion of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officer at the point of entry.
• Validity of passport : Remember, your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months before the date of entry and have a couple of blank pages for the entry stamp.
• Purpose of visit : While US citizens do not need a visa for tourist, business, or social visits, other purposes such as employment, study, or longer stays might require specific visas or passes.
• Overstaying : Overstaying without the necessary extensions is a serious offense in Singapore. It can result in fines, detention, or even a ban from re-entering the country.

Previously, travelers to Singapore had to fill out a paper disembarkation/embarkation card upon arrival. However, in line with the city-state’s push towards digital solutions, there’s now a singapore arrival card for us citizens online .

• Electronic Submission: Travelers can submit their personal information and trip details through the “SG Arrival Card” e-Service on the ICA website or via the mobile application before their arrival in Singapore.
• Replace the Paper Form: The SG Arrival Card has effectively replaced the paper-based system, streamlining the arrival process and promoting a greener, paperless approach.
• Duration: The electronic submission is typically valid for 14 days from the date of submission or until the date of your departure from Singapore, whichever is earlier.
• Mandatory Details: Travelers are required to provide personal details, travel details, health declarations, and recent travel history.

Natvisa offers a detailed step-by-step guide on getting the Arrival Card. Whether you’re new to Singapore or a returning visitor, Natvisa simplifies the procedure, guiding you through the application’s every phase. From essential information submission to health declarations, our platform ensures you’re well-prepared for an uninterrupted entry into the Lion City. With Natvisa’s assistance, acquiring the SG Arrival Card becomes a straightforward process.

See guide: https://www.natvisa.com/requirements/sg-arrival-card

It’s worth noting that while the SG Arrival Card has streamlined the process, travelers should ensure they fill out all information accurately to prevent any delays or complications upon arrival.

Traveling to Singapore as a U.S. citizen is relatively hassle-free for short stays, with the added advantage of visa-free entry. The introduction of the SG Arrival Card further streamlines the process, allowing travelers to experience the beauty and vibrancy of Singapore with ease. Always ensure your documents are up-to-date, and remember to abide by the local regulations to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

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• Traveller Essentials

Quarantine-free Travel requirements to Singapore

We’ve been eagerly anticipating your arrival to our sunny shores! Singapore is open to all travellers without quarantine or testing requirements, regardless of their COVID-19 vaccination status.

That’s when I realized we’d be entering Singapore and not simply being transit passengers, as we would be during our connection between LAX-SIN-SGN.

My research is relevant for those who have valid US Passports, as we do. Anyway, according to the US State Department, we should be OK.

• PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months.
• BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 2 page requirement for entry stamp.
• TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days.

However, checking the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority website , it’s not as clear-cut to enter.

It looks like we do not need a visa to enter the country. However, there are the following requirements:

To enter Singapore, travellers must meet the following immigration requirements:

i) Passport Validity Have minimum 6-month passport validity if you are not a Singapore passport holder ii) Visa Short term travellers holding a passport or travel document from a visa-required country/region must  apply for a Visa Visa-required travellers can use the  Visa-Free Transit Facility  for stay of less than 96 hours in Singapore, if eligible iii) SG Arrival Card (SGAC) All travellers must fill in the  SGAC declaration  up to 3 days before arrival Only Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents and Long-Term Pass Holders entering via land checkpoints do not need to fill in the SGAC iv) Security and Immigration Processes on Arrival Ensure that you do not bring  prohibited items  into Singapore Familiarise yourself with  immigration/customs clearance procedures , including whether you are eligible for automated clearance Short-Term travellers should have sufficient cash and proof of onward travel (tickets, visas), and ensure that you do not stay beyond your visit pass validity. You may retrieve your e-Pass after arrival using the  e-Pass Enquiry Portal  or check your visit pass validity using the  visit pass validity tool . Visitors who wish to stay beyond the period of stay granted can apply for a  visit pass extension  online using the  e-Service . Applications are subject to approval. Travellers on short-term visit pass are also not permitted to engage in any business, professional or paid employment activities when in Singapore. Overstaying is also a punishable offence in Singapore.

Our passports have more than 6 months of validity, and we have onward tickets home to the USA. We’ll have enough money for our stay, so the only requirement is to fill out the SG Arrival Card up to 3 days before arrival.

So while we don’t need a visa to enter Singapore, that doesn’t mean we don’t have any work to do before our trip. Filling our a free, online web form before our trip will prevent us from having unnecessary delays at the border when we enter Singapore.

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All visitors need to fill out an online entry form before going through immigration. You can submit it a few days in advance as long as you know your arrival flight number. There are many questions to answer and several drop down boxes that require selection. It is much much easier to fill this out on a computer with a full sized screen and keyboard than on a mobile phone standing in the airport.

Not to worry, if the online arrival card is not filled in beforehand, there is a table by the side wall by the checkpoint where there are computers. When I saw it twice, there was no line to use the computers. After entering the information, one may go directly to the electronic gates or the manned immigration gates. There is also a person to direct those who have questions. They said that you can fill out the forms and go to the checkpoint immediately.

If one is visiting India and transits Singapore on the way back to North America (or elsewhere) know that Indian airports often do not have wifi available if you do not have an Indian mobile number. Not to worry, you can fill out the Singapore arrival card at the hotel before you leave, use data by roaming, or wait until you arrive in Singapore.

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• Trusted Traveler Programs
• Global Entry
• International Arrangements

Global Entry for Singapore Citizens

How to apply for global entry.

Citizens of Singapore are eligible for Global Entry. Applications must be submitted through CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. The non-refundable application fee for a five-year Global Entry membership is $100 and applications must be made online. Once the application is approved, a CBP officer will conduct a scheduled interview with the applicant and then make a final eligibility determination.  

Application Process

• Apply Online with CBP: Complete a TTP online application and pay the $100 non-refundable application fee.
• Schedule an Interview: Once your application is reviewed, you will receive a message in your TTP account instructing you to schedule an interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers . If you are unable to schedule an in-person interview, you may opt to use the Enrollment On Arrival (EoA) option that is immediately available while entering the U.S. from an international country. No appointment is required for the EoA process. Additional information regarding EoA is available on the Enrollment on Arrival website.
• Interview Determines Your Eligibility: A U.S. Customs Border Protection officer will ask you questions, take your photo, and collect biometric information, for example, scan your fingerprints.
• Provide Identification: Bring your valid passport(s) and one other form of identification, such as a driver's license or ID card to the interview. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card.

Other Benefits

Once a citizen of Singapore is enrolled in Global Entry, he/she will also be eligible to participate in TSA Precheck. Visit the TSA Precheck program website for more information.  

Travel Requirements

All Singaporean Global Entry members must have a valid passport and Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a valid visa. Global Entry members who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. lawful permanent residents must maintain updated visa information with CBP. If a Global Entry member obtains a new visa, or obtains a new petition for a work visa, the member must notify CBP in-person at a Global Entry enrollment center. A member must visit an enrollment center to have CBP add visa and/or update visa information. If the visa information is incomplete or not properly updated with CBP, the Global Entry kiosk may incorrectly calculate the member’s Class of admission and admission date. A member must visit an enrollment center in-person to add or update visa information.

Update April 12, 2024

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U.S. Embassy Singapore - SGP

Please follow the steps below before your immigrant visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Singapore.

Step 1: Register online

Before your interview, you must register online to either designate the office where you wish to collect your issued visa packet or to enter a delivery address. Registration is free. Click the “Register” link below to register.

Register >>

Step 2: Schedule a medical exam in Singapore

As soon as you receive your appointment date, you must schedule a medical exam in Singapore. Click the “Medical Exam Instructions” link below for a list of designated doctors’ offices in Singapore. Please schedule and attend a medical exam with one of these doctors before your interview.

Medical Exam Instructions >>

Step 3: Complete your pre-interview checklist

It is important that you bring all required original documents to your interview. We’ve created a checklist that will tell you what to bring. Please print the checklist below and bring it to your interview along with the listed documents.

Pre-Interview Checklist >>

Step 4: Review interview guidelines

Read our interview guidelines to learn about any special actions that you need to take before your visa interview.

Interview Guidelines >>

Medical Exam Instructions

All immigrant visa applicants, regardless of age, require a medical examination prior to the issuance of a visa. Only a physician accredited by the U.S. Embassy can perform this exam. It is your responsibility to schedule a medical exam with the hospital listed below before your visa interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy. Medical examination results from other physicians will not be accepted.

Approved Physician

American International Clinic 10 Sinaran Drive #10-10 Novena Medical Centre Singapore 307506 Tel: 6397-7129 Email: [email protected]

International Medical Clinic 1 Orchard Boulevard #14-01 Camden Medical Centre Singapore 248649 Tel: 6733-4440 Email: [email protected]

International Medical Clinic 293 Holland Road #02-03/04 Cold Storage Jelita Singapore 278628 Tel: 6465-4440 Email: [email protected]

Items to bring to your medical examination

The doctor will need the following items to complete the medical exam forms:

• Your visa interview appointment letter,
• Your passport,
• Four (4) recently taken passport-sized color photographs,
• A copy of your immunization records, and
• DS-260 confirmation page.

Any medical examination fees, including x-ray and blood test fees, must be paid directly to the examining physician.

During the medical exam

The medical examination will include a medical history review, physical examination, and chest X-ray, gonorrhea test, and blood tests (for applicants 15 years of age or older). The United States also requires tuberculosis (TB) testing for all applicants two years of age and older. Please be prepared to discuss your medical history, medications you are taking, and current treatments you are undergoing. More information on general medical requirements for U.S. immigrants is available via cdc.gov .

U.S. immigration law requires immigrant visa applicants to obtain certain vaccinations prior to the issuance of a visa. Current immigrant visa vaccination requirements are available via cdc.gov . You can also read Frequently Asked Questions about our medical examination requirements via travel.state.gov .

After the medical exam

When your examination is completed, the doctor will either provide you with exam results in a sealed envelope or send them directly to the U.S. Embassy. IF GIVEN AN ENVELOPE TO CARRY TO YOUR INTERVIEW, DO NOT OPEN THIS ENVELOPE . Instead, bring it to your visa interview.

Any x-rays taken will be given to you. You DO NOT need to bring the x-rays to your visa interview unless you suffer from tuberculosis (TB). However, you must carry the x-rays with you when you travel to the United States for the first time. The medical report must be less than six months old when you enter the United States as an immigrant.

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Pre-Interview checklist

All documents not in English must be accompanied by an English translation certified by a competent translator and sworn to before a Notary Public. Court documents such as divorce papers must be either original with a court seal or a court-certified copy. Copies certified by a lawyer are not acceptable.

Please use the list below to determine the items that the applicant must bring to the immigrant visa interview:

• A copy of your NVC interview letter (does not apply to Diversity Visa, fiancé(e), adoptive, or asylee/refugee applicants).
• Unexpired passport valid for six months beyond your intended date of entry to the United States  and  a photocopy of the biographic page (where your name and photo are located). Visas are issued in the name in your passport. Children must have their own individual passports.
• Two (2) color photographs of each person applying for a visa (5 cm x 5 cm, or 2 inch x 2 inch).  Please review our  online photo requirements .
• Confirmation page from the Form DS-260 Application for an Immigrant Visa you submitted online at  ceac.state.gov/iv .
• Your  original  birth certificate, English translation,  and  a photocopy. If an official birth certificate is not obtainable, present the best possible secondary evidence, such as a baptismal certificate, hospital certificate, school records, and/or a notarized affidavit from the parents. Secondary evidence should be accompanied by an official statement by the authority stating that no records are available.
• Original or certified copies of birth certificates for all children of the principal applicant ( even if he or she is not accompanying ).  

Applicants who fall into any category below should bring these additional documents:

For family-based visa applications:

The appropriate  Form I-864 Affidavit of Support  for  each  financial sponsor along with a photocopy of the sponsor’s IRS transcript or most recent U.S. federal income tax return, and any relevant W-2s. 

Proof of your U.S. petitioner’s status and domicile in the United States (photocopy of a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or lawful permanent resident card).

Evidence of the relationship between the petitioner and visa applicant (such as photographs, letters, or emails).

If you are married :  Your  original  marriage certificate, English translation,  and  a photocopy.

If you were previously married:   Your  original  divorce or spouse’s death certificate, English translation,  and  a photocopy If you are older than 16 years of age:  The original police certificate from your country of current residence and countries of previous residence. If these three items are all true, you must bring a more recent police certificate to the interview:

• You are older than 16 years;
• You obtained a police certificate more than one year ago; and
• You still live in the country that issued the police certificate.

For employment-based visa applications:  Letter from your U.S. employer dated less than one month ago.

If you have ever been convicted of a crime:  Court and criminal records, English translation, and a photocopy.

If you have served in any country’s military:  Military records, English translation, and a photocopy.

If you are adopted:   Adoption papers or custody documents, English translation,  and  a photocopy.

If you are the petitioner’s stepchild:  The  original  marriage certificate of the petitioner and your biological parent, English translation,  and  a photocopy along with divorce records for any previous marriages of either parent.

Filipino applicants and applicants of other nationalities residing in the Philippines: You must obtain a “Certificate of No Marriage” (CENOMAR) from the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA). The PSA must send the CENOMAR by mail directly to the Immigrant Visa Unit, Consular Section, U.S. Embassy Singapore, 27 Napier Road, Singapore 258508. We will not accept CENOMARs submitted by individual applicants.

Interview Guidelines

Rescheduling or cancelling your interview

If you are unable to attend your appointment, please inform the Consular Section by email at [email protected] as soon as possible. There may be a significant wait before the next available appointment , so please attempt to attend the date already assigned.

For some family-based and employment preference visa categories, a visa became available within the month you have been scheduled by NVC. DV applicants should be aware that visas are numerically limited and must be issued by September 30 of the program year. There is no guarantee that a visa will still be available on the date of your rescheduled interview . Please carefully consult the Visa Bulletin before you decide to reschedule your interview.

Security screening procedures

All visitors to the U.S. Embassy in Singapore must follow certain security procedures. Any visitor who declines to be screened by U.S. Embassy security personnel will be unable to enter the embassy. You are not allowed to enter the U.S. Embassy while carrying any battery-operated or electronic devices, large bags or luggage, or food and liquid items. To avoid delaying your entry and that of those in line behind you, please bring only what is required for your interview.

Accompanying persons

The following persons may accompany a visa applicant to their interview:

• Interpreter: Applicants may bring ONE interpreter if they do not speak English or Mandarin well enough to participate in an interview.
• Special Needs Visitors: Applicants may bring ONE person to help if they are elderly, disabled, or a minor child.

Attorneys are not permitted to accompany clients into the waiting room or to their interview.

Immigrant visa fees

If you have not paid all required fees to either the National Visa Center or via the appointment website, please be prepared to pay these fees on the day of your interview. All fees may be paid in either Singapore dollars or by credit card. We accept MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. Credit card charges will be made in U.S. dollars and foreign exchange charges may apply.

Please note that if you are found ineligible to receive a visa, the application fee cannot be refunded . A complete list of fees can be found via travel.state.gov .

Do not make travel plans outside of Singapore

If your visa is approved, we will keep your passport at the embassy while we prepare your immigration packet and print a visa for your passport. We will return your passport to you later via the method you selected when you registered online (see Step 1 ). If you have to travel within Singapore while your passport is still with us, please make sure you have a valid picture ID other than your passport.

After Your Visa Interview

A consular officer can make a decision on a visa application only after reviewing the formal application and interviewing the applicant. There is no guarantee that you will receive a visa . Do not sell your house, car or property, resign from your job or make non-refundable flight or other travel arrangements until you have received your immigrant visa.

If more information is needed

Sometimes a consular officer is unable to make a decision on a visa application because he/she needs to review additional documents or the case requires further administrative processing. When additional documents are requested , the consular officer will give you a refusal letter that asks you to submit additional documents. The letter will include instructions on how to send those documents to the embassy.  Administrative processing takes additional time after the interview. Most administrative processing is resolved within 60 days. However, the timing varies based on the circumstances of each case. Before inquiring about the status of administrative processing, please wait at least 60 days after your interview.

What happens after visa approval

Passport, Visa, and Sealed Immigrant Packet – We will place your immigrant visa on a page in your passport. Please review your visa to make sure there are no spelling errors. We will also give you a sealed envelope containing documents that you must give to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when you arrive in the United States for the first time. Do not open this envelope. You must carry it with you; do not put it in your checked luggage. If you receive X-rays during your medical examination, carry those with you and give them to the U.S. CBP official who process your admission to the United States.

Online Processing - If your application is handled via online processing, all your supporting immigration documents will be transferred electronically to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). In most cases, you are NOT required to carry a sealed envelope during your travel to the United States as an Immigrant Visa holder. At the U.S. port-of-entry, you must present only your passport containing the immigrant visa.

USCIS Immigrant Fee – All individuals who are issued immigrant visas overseas must pay an Immigrant Fee to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) prior to traveling to the United States. This fee is for processing your residency status and printing your Permanent Resident Card. The only people exempt from paying this fee are: children entering the United States under the Hague Process, returning residents, and people traveling on a K visa.

When You Should Travel – You must enter the United States before the expiration date on your visa. Your visa cannot be extended and all fees are nonrefundable. The principal applicant must enter before or at the same time as other family members with visas. Unless they are eligible for benefits under the Child Status Protection Act, children who are issued a visa before turning 21 years of age must enter the United States before their 21st birthday to avoid losing their immigrant status.

Getting a Green Card – Your Form I-551 Permanent Resident Card, also known as a green card, will be automatically mailed to the address in the United States that you write in your visa application form. This is a very important document that proves you have permission to reside in the United States. If you plan to travel outside the U.S. before your green card arrives: Please consult USCIS’s and CBP’s websites for rules about what documents you need to re-enter the country. We also recommend you check with the airline to ensure you are in compliance with their rules. Once your card is issued, you should not stay outside of the United States for more than one year. If you do, you will lose your status as a Lawful Permanent Resident.

Children’s Issues – In the United States, children are required to have certain vaccinations before they can enroll in school. We recommend that you bring your child’s complete vaccination records with you to the United States. If your child is adopted, you have full custody as a result of a divorce, or you share custody with another parent, you should bring a copy of all applicable adoption or custodial papers from the authoritative court in your home country. You will need these papers (translated into English) for issues such as school enrollment, medical care, and eventual citizenship.

Information for New Immigrants – Please visit the USCIS web page for helpful information on moving to the United States. You can read their publication “ Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants ” online.

Diversity Visa Applicants - Additional Information

If you are interviewing for a Diversity Visa (DV), all of the above instructions apply to you. Please schedule and attend a medical examination prior to your visa interview; enroll in the required courier service; and gather the required documents.

Below are additional instructions that apply only to DV applicants.

Bring to your interview

In addition to the documents listed on the Pre-Interview Checklist in this package, DV applicants should also bring the following items to your visa interview:

• Appointment information printed from the “Entrant Status Check” on the E-DV website
• Documents showing that you have either a qualifying high school education OR have two years of qualifying work experience in the last five years immediately prior to application(for the principal applicant only; more information is available via travel.state.gov ).
• Payment in cash of the $330 Diversity Visa Application Fee

Review your DV Lottery Entry

Prior to your visa interview, we recommend that you review the data on your initial E-DV entry. On your initial E-DV application, you must have correctly entered your marital status. If you are legally married you must have listed your spouse, even if you are currently separated from him/her (unless your spouse is a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident).

Additionally, you must have listed ALL of your living children who are unmarried and under 21 years old. This includes your natural children, your spouse’s children, or children you have formally adopted in accordance with the laws of your country.

Failure to have listed an existing spouse or children at the time of your entry in the Diversity Visa lottery will result in the denial of your visa and visas for your family. Any fees paid to the U.S. government in support of your visa application(s) are nonrefundable. If you failed to include a child who had already been born, or a spouse to whom you were married when you entered the lottery, you should not proceed with the visa application. You can review the eligibility requirements via travel.state.gov . 

Last Updated: 2/6/2023

Contact Information

27 Napier Road Singapore 258508

Other Links

Diversity Visa Instructions After Your Interview Frequently Asked Questions Where to find civil documents

Interview Preparation Video

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Singapore’s QR code rollout has cut travel time for commuters, who want Malaysia to do the same ahead of the completion of the Rapid Transit System Link and planned Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone. 

File photo of the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex (BSI CIQ) in Johor Bahru. (Photo: CNA/Zamzahuri Abas)

This audio is AI-generated.

JOHOR BAHRU: Malaysian IT analyst Sarguneshwara Subramaniam, who commutes between Johor Bahru and Singapore thrice a week, has endured congestion at the land checkpoints for more than a decade.  

Traffic at the Woodlands Causeway and Tuas Second Link is particularly heavy at this time of the year, as people mark the Qing Ming festival by visiting their ancestors’ graves as well as celebrate Hari Raya Puasa, he said.

In recent weeks, however, the 44-year-old has been pleasantly surprised.

“With the QR code now (implemented) on the Singapore side, travelling has been way smoother than I expected,” said Mr Subramaniam, who works in Singapore and heads north thrice a week to visit his family.

“There’s no handing over (of) any passports – just scan the QR code and wait for the officers to verify your name and identity."

Since Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) rolled out its QR code initiative on Mar 19 for drivers on its side of the land border, Mr Subramaniam’s average travel time for a one-way trip has shortened to 90 minutes, from around two hours.

It now takes him and his wife less than 40 seconds to drive through Woodlands Checkpoint, instead of around 90 seconds previously.

“We actually monitored the time taken and were quite pleased,” he said.

Another frequent commuter, Singaporean Murphy Lip, has seen his journey times cut from 90 minutes to just an hour these days. 

“I notice that it’s particularly good for big groups of people travelling in large cars. With the QR code scanners, it takes between 45 and 50 seconds to clear these groups as the officer does not need to flip through the pages of each passport to verify identity,” added the 41-year-old senior cloud engineer, who lives in Malaysia and travels to Singapore for work every alternate day.

Calls for Malaysia to also implement QR code clearance at its land checkpoints with Singapore have grown louder in the wake of positive user feedback to Singapore’s rollout.

Both countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Jan 11 to develop a framework for a legally binding agreement on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ). A key part of the MOU was exploring passport-free clearance on both sides of the border, and Singapore unilaterally introduced its system last month.

QR code immigration clearance: What you need to know about ICA's new initiative

Johor-Singapore SEZ: Passport-free travel hailed as ‘game-changer’ but observers debate size, scope of proposed zone

Malaysia’s federal government has not made any announcement on passport-free clearance at land checkpoints since, but Johor’s state government and businesses are keen to move things forward.

Johor works, transport, infrastructure and communication committee chairman Mohamad Fazli said that he would be meeting the relevant agencies in Singapore after Hari Raya to look at the QR code initiative, news outlet The Star reported on Tuesday (Apr 9).

“We want to see whether the implementation has been successful or not,” Mr Fazli reportedly said. 

“I will compile all the related information and have a discussion with our Immigration director-general after that,” he added.

CNA has asked the Johor immigration department if there are plans to develop passport-free immigration clearance in the short term, ahead of further discussions for the planned SEZ. 

“IT MUST BE DONE NOW”

Mr Andrew Chen, Johor state assemblyman for the Stulang constituency – an area adjacent to the Johor Bahru immigration complex – told CNA it is imperative that Malaysia begins to implement a passport-free clearance system as soon as possible. This would signal the Malaysian government's commitment to the terms of the SEZ, he said.

The Democratic Action Party (DAP) politician explained that Malaysia may not necessarily implement a QR code system like Singapore's, but should consider options such as facial recognition biometric clearance or other methods that would allow passport-free travel when the SEZ comes to fruition. 

DAP is part of the Pakatan Harapan coalition and unity government led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. 

“It is very important that these systems are put in place soon. The agreement to one day implement passport-free travel is there, and Malaysia will honour it,” said Mr Chen, who led a state task force between 2018 and 2020 to ease congestion at the Causeway.

“Smooth traffic flow of people is especially important for the SEZ to be fruitful and for the Malaysian economy to benefit from this bilateral initiative. But it must be done now, ahead of further discussions in regards to the SEZ,” he added.

The authorities should also look at a system – similar to the one to be implemented for the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link – where travellers only need to clear immigration once, suggested Mr Chen.

The RTS Link is slated to be completed by end-2026. And while no date has been set for the SEZ, Mr Samuel Tan, executive director of KGV International Property Consultants in Johor, expects the project to boost the number of travellers passing through the land checkpoints to more than half a million a day, up from over 400,000 currently.

The Malaysian government should make QR code clearance a “top priority” to avoid a “bottleneck for commuters”, said Mr Tan.

IS MALAYSIA READY?

But Ms Christina Karl, global immigration leader at Deloitte, noted that Malaysia may be at a different stage from Singapore in the process.

“When considering the implementation of initiatives such as QR code clearance at land and/or air checkpoints, it is crucial to acknowledge and respect the sovereignty of each nation and understand that they may have different priorities, resources and levels of technological readiness,” she said.

“Adopting new technologies can vary significantly based on infrastructure, investment priorities, regulatory frameworks and political considerations, and the number of neighbouring countries which these changes may impact,” said Ms Karl.

That said, she agreed QR code clearance has increased convenience for travellers at Singapore’s land checkpoints. “Removing the human element from the process also allows for increased accuracy and an additional security layer which comes hand in hand with this technology,” she said.

Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link passes 65% construction milestone on both sides; connecting span complete

Malaysia economy ministry to coordinate meetings on Johor-Singapore SEZ: PM Anwar

Globally, border control is becoming more seamless, Ms Karl noted.

Travellers have been free to move between 26 countries in the Schengen area in Europe without the need for passport checks at the borders since 1995. This includes nations like Germany, Belgium, France, as well as non-European Union countries Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. 

The United Arab Emirates is also set to implement facial recognition at its borders and remove the need to produce a passport at the port of entry. 

“The global landscape is evolving rapidly and advancements in technology and societies’ expectations are driving transformations in border control,” said Ms Karl.

Mr Teh Kee Sin, advisor to the South Johor Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Association, acknowledged the Malaysian government will have to put in place infrastructure such as QR code scanners and a centralised app, as well as train immigration officers.

This would take time, he said, but would pay off in reducing congestion and commute times.

“Imagine a time in the near future where we do not need to carry our passports in hand to cross the border into Singapore,” said Mr Teh. 

For Mr Subramaniam, precious minutes shaved off per trip add up to countless hours saved by users of the Causeway and Second Link each day.

“When you multiply this by hundreds of thousands a day, it makes a difference,” he said. 

IN FOCUS: Johor’s abuzz over a proposed T-shaped integrated transport network that could boost its SEZ with Singapore

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The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Indians can now visit 62 countries visa-free; check the full list to know more.

India's passport has advanced to the 80th global position, per the Henley Passport Index. This newfound status allows Indian citizens visa-free travel to 62 countries, simplifying their exploration. Notable countries topping the index are France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain, granting their citizens access to 194 destinations without visa hassles. The United States holds the seventh spot with entry to 188 countries.

Henley Passport Index 2024: Six countries tie for the world's most powerful passport; India jumps 3 spots

• British Virgin Islands
• Cape Verde Islands
• Comoro Islands
• Cook Islands
• El Salvador
• Guinea-Bissau
• Macao (SAR China)
• Marshall Islands
• Palau Islands
• Sierra Leone
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain
• Finland, South Korea, Sweden
• Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands
• Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, United Kingdom
• Greece, Malta, Switzerland
• Australia, Czechia, New Zealand, Poland
• Canada, Hungary, United States
• Estonia, Lithuania
• Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia

Portugal's revamped golden visa scheme to boost investment funds

Indians in UAE to enjoy lower fares and faster Schengen visa processing time

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Have a Japan visa? Here are six other countries you can visit visa-free

Travel on your mind?

Exploring the world is now easier for Indian passport holders holding a valid Japan visa. Here are six destinations you can visit visa-free

Philippines

Enjoy pristine white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs of the Philippines for a 14-day escapade with your valid Japan visa. Ensure you carry an Indian passport valid for at least six months beyond your departure date, along with a return or onward ticket.

Embark on a journey through the cobblestone streets and breathtaking landscapes of Georgia for up to 90 days, within any 180-day period, with a valid Japan visa and passport.

Experience beachside bliss and explore charming old towns in Montenegro, granting entry to holders of a valid Japan visa for up to 30 days. Verify specific requirements with your nearest embassy or consulate before planning your trip.

Take advantage of the Visa Free Transit Facility in Singapore, allowing Indian passport holders with a valid Japan visa to spend 96 hours in the country, provided their visa is valid for at least a month at the time of travel. Don't forget to carry an onward flight or ferry ticket departing within 96 hours.

For an enriching experience in Mexico, Indian passport holders with a valid multiple entry Japan visa may enjoy exemption from visa entry requirements and stay for up to 180 days. Ensure your passport has at least six months validity at the time of travel.

Explore the wonders of Taiwan multiple times within a 90-day period, for 14 days each time, with a Japan visa. Additional documents required include an approved ROC Travel Authorisation Certificate, a passport with minimum six months validity, proof of entering Japan, and a confirmed sea/air ticket for the next destination.

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Apply or Renew Singapore Passport

For Singaporeans residing in the United States, there are two ways in which one can apply for a new Singapore Passport.

• Application for Passport On-line Electronic System
• Applying at the Singapore Embassy or the nearest Consulate in person or by mail

Online Application

You may apply for renewal of passport through ICA's Eservice .

• You will require a digital photo image file and a valid credit card for payment purposes.  The new passport may be collected at the Embassy.  Please ensure that you provide your full US contact details when submitting your application. Please also select 'Washington' as the collection centre.
• There are other collection centres besides Washington.  Please select the centre closest and most convenient to you.
• The processing time is approximately six to eight weeks.
• You will be informed when the new passport is ready for collection at the Embassy and the required documents to bring along with you.  You will need to produce the required documents upon the collection of the new passport in person.  The old passport (if any) will be returned to you upon cancellation.

Application in Person or by Mail

All applications submitted in person to the Singapore Embassy in Washington DC will only be accepted between 9.00am to 1.00pm on weekdays on an appointment-only basis.

Documents Required  

• Your existing original Singapore Passport (whether damaged or not);
• A police report or a notarised Statutory Declaration is required if the passport is lost.
• Completed Singapore Biometric Passport Application Form (Form IMM (E) 11(OS)) ( https://www.ica.gov.sg/docs/default-source/ica/forms/forms_form_imme_11_os.pdf )
• Photocopy of National Registration Identity Card
• If you wish to insert your married name, please provide a notarised copy of your marriage certificate, and a letter of request for the amendment, addressed to the Commissioner of ICA. 
• If you wish to update a change of legal/principal name (including ethnic name), please provide a notarised copy of your deed poll or US court orders, and and a letter of request for the update, addressed to the Commissioner of ICA.
• For changes in name for children below 16 years old, a parent/guardian would need to sign off on the letter of request addressed to the Commissioner of ICA, and he/she would need to include a copy of his/her own NRIC for verification, in addition to the deed poll. 
• Original (valid) Exit Permit (for male citizens who are 16½ years old and above).
• One recent passport-sized colour photograph of the applicant meeting the following specifications:
• Sharp and clear, 35 mm wide by 45 mm high without border and taken within the last 3 months
• Taken full face with you looking directly at the camera with head straight
• Taken with the image of your face measuring between 25 mm and 35 mm from chin to crown of head
• Taken without wearing any hat or other head covering, unless you habitually wear a hat or head covering in accordance with your religious or racial custom. If any such hat or other head covering is word, the photograph must still be a full frontal view of your head and shoulders, showing your facial features in entirety with eyes open and clearly visible.
• If you wear glasses, the photograph must show your eyes clearly with no flash reflection off the glasses. The frame shall not cover any part of your eyes. Tinted glasses and sunglasses are not allowed.
• Taken with uniform lighting with no flash reflection or shadow, no uneven bright spots on the face and no red eyes.
• Taken against a white background. However if your hair, hat or head covering is white, the background must be light gray.
• Ensure that only you are photographed with no chair, toys or other persons visible in the photograph.
• Be printed on high quality paper at high resolution with a matt or semi-matt finish with no ink marks or creases.

Processing fee

 Fees are subject to change without notice.

• Please issue a cashier’s cheque or money order in US currency made payable to the "Singapore Embassy". Personal/corporate cheques are not accepted. Do not send cash through the mail.
• Payment by exact cash is required if applying in person.
• From 1 Oct 2021, Singapore passports issued for citizens aged 16 and above are valid for 10 years.  For citizens below the age of 16, the passport validity is 5 years. For the 5-year passports, the remaining validity from the previous passport, up to a maximum of 9 months, may be carried over to the renewed passport.  For more information, please refer to ICA;s  FAQs .
• Processing time is approximately six to eight weeks from the date of receipt of the complete application. As the issuance of the passport is done in Singapore, please allow enough time for processing and possible delays in postal delivery.
• You will be informed when the new passport is ready for collection at the Embassy and the required documents to bring along with you. 
• For applications submitted through the mail you will need to produce the required documents upon the collection of the new passport  in person .  The old passport (if any) will be returned to you upon cancellation.
• For applications submitted in person, you may wish to provide a self-addressed paid envelope for the dispatch of the new passport to you.  All applications submitted in person to the Singapore Embassy in Washington DC will only be accepted between 9.00am to 1.00pm on weekdays on an appointment-only basis.

The Government of the Republic of Singapore is not responsible  for any document lost in the mail or transmitted through courier services.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age

A couple of times a year, I get a panicked message from a friend or reader who is about to take an airplane flight with their kids. Suddenly they’ve realized that they have no idea what kind of identification they need for their children to fly, if any. After a decade and a half of flying on hundreds of flights and dozens of airlines with my kids to destinations all around the world, I know this question can certainly be confusing!

In the United States, there are multiple entities that set the official legal rules and regulations governing air travel identification and documentation. Those can include Customs and Border Protection, the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, and each specific airline.

So exactly what documentation is required to board an airplane with kids? As you might imagine, it depends! Here is all the information you need to make sure you have the right identification to travel aboard both domestic and international flights with kids.

Short on Time? Quick Answers in a Nutshell

Children under the age of 18 typically do not need ID to fly on domestic flights within the United States when accompanied by an adult. Airlines may require identification, however, in more unusual circumstances such as with very young infants, lap children, unaccompanied minors, or older teens flying solo. Identification – specifically a passport book but sometimes more – is always required for kids of any age to travel on international flights.

Identification Required for Kids for International Travel

Most travelers usually expect strict identification rules when it comes to international travel. If you are traveling internationally by air the answer to the question of whether kids need ID to fly is pretty simple. Yes! They do!

Not just any ID will suffice. Just as with adults, a passport book is required to fly with kids internationally no matter how young. If you have kids who are United States citizens, getting an official passport can be time-consuming and expensive. In addition, it requires some logistical steps that parents can mess up.

How to Get Passports in the US for Kids

Specifically, the consent of both parents is required for kids under age 16. That usually means both parents need to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (like many post offices, local government offices, etc.). Alternatively, one parent can appear in person with a notarized statement of consent from the other parent. I got a notarized letter from my husband the last time we applied for our kids because his work schedule made it difficult for him to be available during the limited business hours passport acceptance facilities in our area were open.

Note also that you can’t just easily renew children’s passports by mail like you can for adults. The same in-person application process with both parents present is required. Plus kids under age 16 must renew passports every 5 years, instead of every 10 years for adults.

For that reason, I highly recommend starting the process of obtaining passports for your kids many months in advance of any international travel. After the paperwork is submitted, the process can take 2-3 months for a passport to arrive. Plus, it can often take many weeks before you can get an appointment to even submit the paperwork.

This obviously makes international travel with very young infants especially challenging, as it takes time to first get a birth certificate for the child and then apply for a passport.

Hopefully you are landing on this article in plenty of time to get your paperwork in order for your specific situation. But if not, there may be ways you can get what you need more urgently. You can pay a $60 extra fee to expedite a passport, which can cut several weeks off of standard processing times. And in more urgent situations, there is an even more expedited option available by applying at a passport agency (which can be done if a trip is within 14 days or less).

Special Note about International Land Crossings and Cruises

One reason some travelers misunderstand the air travel rules for kid identification is because the rules for kids crossing land borders and on some cruises can be different. For example, minors who are US citizens can cross into Canada by land with only a birth certificate.

On some closed loop cruises starting and ending in the United States going to destinations like Mexico, Canada, or many Caribbean countries, there are times when both kids and adults can technically travel without a passport using a birth certificate or passport card.

But none of these exceptions apply to international air travel. Don’t mix these rules up!

Child Travel Consent Form

Although a passport book is necessary to travel with kids on international flights, it isn’t necessarily fully sufficient. There are some times that other travel documents may be required – such as a visa for certain countries.

What is even more likely to trip up international travelers is the situation in which a child is traveling with only one parent or is traveling with another adult who isn’t a parent. In many of these circumstances, proof that both parents consent to the specific trip can be required. In these cases, the best practice is to carry a notarized letter of consent for the child to travel.

Some countries have very specific forms or formats that you need to follow. Mexico is one such example and historically has tended to be quite strict. My husband will likely be traveling solo with one of our kids to Mexico for a family wedding in a few months, and we are already planning to get the a letter of consent completed as an extra precaution.

Many countries don’t have clear cut rules that are easy to research. For example, I flew last summer to Italy (first entering the Schengen Area in Frankfurt, Germany) with both of my kids without my husband. I wasn’t able to get completely definitive information as to whether consent was required. As a result, we went ahead and had my husband complete a notarized letter of consent that I kept with me along with a copy of his passport. We weren’t asked to show it, but I breathed easier knowing I had it!

Unfortunately, profiling can and does occur depending on where you are traveling. So parents who don’t share the same last name as their children or who may appear to be another race or ethnicity may find they face extra scrutiny. The best way to avoid any surprises – just or not – is to err on the side of having this document even when it’s not necessarily required.

Identification Required for Kids for Domestic Travel

If you are traveling domestically, the answer to the ID question is a little more complicated but thankfully usually much easier. In most standard circumstances, identification is not required for minors for domestic travel within the USA. There are specific unique situations, however, where it can be.

What Identification is Needed at TSA Checkpoints?

For domestic travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not require you to have an ID for children under age 18 at the security checkpoint.

That said, TSA agents may well talk to your child to confirm their identity and to screen for cases of child abduction. Agents have asked my kids over the years for their names. In some circumstances, they’ve pointed to my husband or me and asked our children who we are. If you have kids who are shy or who take warnings of stranger danger to heart, let them know in advance of your trip that it’s ok for them to speak to these agents and to answer truthfully.

Related: Strategies for Speeding Through TSA Checkpoints with Kids

Special Situations Where Kids May Need ID for Domestic Travel

While the TSA won’t require identification for kids under age 18, many airlines have policies in specific circumstances where some form of ID will be required. It’s vital to know about these outlier circumstances so you don’t come to the airport unprepared.

Young Infants

A number of airlines have rules that prohibit or limit newborns from flying. Airline rules differ, with some airlines like Delta prohibiting newborns under 7 days old from flying on any flights. Others set limits only on international travel, including Southwest which limits infants 14 days old or younger from flying on international flights. Most airlines allow young infants under their age limits, however, to fly with a letter of permission from a physician.

Related: Essential Tips for Your Baby’s First Flight

If you are traveling with a newborn, it’s highly advised to bring a document like a birth certificate for proof of age. And if you are looking for an exception to an age minimum of any sort, a physician’s letter is essential.

Lap Children

When you are flying with a child who will be sitting in your lap (permitted for kids under age 2), having identification to prove age may be required. Some airlines will allow younger infants to board with no ID, as it’s normally obvious that very small babies are not yet near the maximum age cutoff. Families with older babies toddling and speaking always should carry proof of age no matter what the airline. Airline employees can ask at any time for proof to make sure the child is young enough to travel as a lap child.

Related: What to Consider before Flying with a Lap Child

If you are flying Southwest Airlines, however, do not leave ID at home no matter what the age of your lap child. Southwest is the only US carrier that absolutely requires identification of any and every lap child regardless of how old they appear. You’ll need to show it at the ticket counter to obtain a boarding verification document (that works like a boarding pass) for the lap child.

Are there some instances where passengers haven’t had to show documentation for their children on Southwest? For sure. But I’ve flown with a lap child on Southwest more than a dozen times, and I can assure you that every time I had to show proof of age, even with a kiddo as young as 4 months! You don’t want to chance this.

Related: Complete Guide to Flying Southwest with Kids

What kind of identification works for lap children? A simple copy of a birth certificate will usually suffice. No need to rush to the DMV to get your tot a state-issued ID card.

Birth certificates can, however, can take awhile to obtain after a child is born. If you need to fly with a young infant domestically, most airlines will also accept hospital discharge documentation or vaccination records from a pediatrician’s office. The key is that the document have the child’s date of birth on it. When in doubt, if you cannot obtain a birth certificate, call the airline you are flying beforehand to confirm alternatives.

Unaccompanied Minors & Minors Traveling Solo

Another circumstance in which identification may be required for a child is in the case of children flying alone. Again, each airline’s policy is different.

In this situation, age really matters. All US airlines permit older teens (usually ages 15+ but sometimes younger) to fly solo just like adults. And most of them also allow younger kids (often ages 5-14) to fly as unaccompanied minors by paying a fee for limited supervision by airline employees. Depending on the child’s age and circumstances, different documentation can be required.

For older teens under age 18 flying truly solo and not with an unaccompanied minor program, ID is almost always required. Since many kids in this age range won’t have a driver’s license or official government photo ID yet, some airlines (like United) will accept other forms of identification like a birth certificates or student IDs. Other airlines (like Delta), however, require that 15-17 year olds flying solo have the same kind of photo ID that is required of adults. So if your child doesn’t have a driver’s permit or license yet, you’ll likely need to pack a passport.

Younger kids flying as an unaccompanied minor may need some identification as well. This also varies based on the airline and the circumstance. For example, when my son flew earlier this year as an unaccompanied minor on Southwest, I had to show ID as his parent, but I was not asked to show identification for him. Officially, however, Southwest’s policy is that parents may need to show proof of age for the minor. We probably weren’t asked because I booked under my son’s Rapid Rewards account that includes his date of birth (and he clearly appears to be within the age range of the program).

Most other US airlines won’t ask for ID for unaccompanied minors in straightforward situations, but the important thing to note is that they can . So the safest course of action is to at least carry a birth certificate. I put a birth certificate in my son’s backpack anyway, so we were prepared!

Here are links to the relevant age and ID policies that may apply to minors flying solo or as unaccompanied minors on each major US airline:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Airlines
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Additional Identification Air Travel Tips

• When in doubt, bring it : I know from lots of digging around fine print on the internet that it’s sometimes impossible to get a definitive answer about identification. When in doubt, I highly recommend you err on the side of packing more than you need rather than less. A passport book is the gold standard. For domestic travel an original birth certificate (with the raised seal) can be helpful in many circumstances too.
• Keep extra copies on the cloud : Back in the pre-internet old days of travel, most of us traveled with extra passport copies in a separate bag in case we lost the original. In the digital age, having backups is easier than ever. I keep a copy on the cloud of passports and birth certificates for everyone in the family. That way, I can easily access everything on my phone in cases of emergency.
• Take extra precautions in case of child custody disputes and divorce : It’s crucial in situations of divorce or shared custody that parents have all of their legal ducks in a row before boarding a plane with their child, even for a simple hop across state lines. As a former attorney myself, I strongly suggest you consult your own legal counsel. Always make sure travel is permitted and that you know what additional documentation you need to bring to avoid any potential issues.

The post Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

• Entering, Transiting and Departing

Advice for Singapore Citizens Travelling Abroad/Returning to Singapore

Singapore citizens travelling overseas should note the following:

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months before departure. It should be in good condition, with no torn or missing pages. If your passport appears to have been tampered with, you could have difficulties at a foreign airport, including being refused entry.
• Ensure you have the required entry visa for your destination country. Please visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) website  for information on visa requirements and overseas consular offices.
• Record information about your itinerary on MFA’s eRegister system . The information you provide will allow MFA to contact you to make sure that you are safe and, if need be, assist you should an emergency (for example, a natural disaster, civil unrest) occur.
• Check your passport and endorsements as soon as you arrive at and depart from foreign countries. If you find any discrepancies, you should contact the police or immigration authority in the foreign country.

Notice to returning Singapore Citizens

Singapore passports with a validity of less than six months are acceptable for arrival clearance in Singapore.

Related Links

• Child Born Overseas
• APEC Business Travel Card
• Apply for Overseas Automated Clearance

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Tim Cook leaves Singapore after week-long Asia tour

Tim Cook in Singapore (Source: Apple)

Tim Cook began the week in Vietnam , then spent Wednesday in Indonesia , and rounded out the week with two last days in Singapore . While Apple does not release Cook's schedule, it appears that his tour has concluded, and he's posted a last few photos and videos from it.

Cook's last evening in Singapore consisted of his visiting the Apple Marina Bay Sands store. Musician Benjamin Kheng was performing a concert there.

Tonight's performance by artist @benjaminkheng and producer @evanturetime at Apple Marina Bay Sands was unforgettable! The energy was electric, and it was such an incredible moment for customers and the team at a beautiful spot in Singapore! pic.twitter.com/DntSnRhiUI — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 18, 2024

The following morning, Cook again breakfasted with users. In this case, it was food entrepreneurs Faz and Amiera.

It was great to experience Faz and Amiera's love of food and get a taste of their entrepreneurial spirit! They showed me how they use MacBook Air, iPad, and iPhone to bring their hot honey and sambal businesses to life. pic.twitter.com/aCwgWELDlX — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 19, 2024

Cook then visited the new Apple Developer Center in Singapore. He met with developers, students, and Apple Design Award winners.

From solving puzzles to training knights, Jakob, Tongyu, Chiny, and Yiwei shared demos of their games with me at the new Apple Developer Center in Singapore. I loved hearing about your journeys... as students, teachers, and Apple Design Award Winners! pic.twitter.com/x2T3PW04c7 — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 19, 2024

To round out his travelogue, Cook concluded with a message about Singapore being an amazing country. He ended his posts with a shot from what appears to be the Apple Marina Bay Sands store and the staff there.

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