Deepavali 2026: Heavy traffic expected at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from 6 to 9 November

Motorists could face waits of up to three hours during peak periods, ICA said.

The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) expects heavy traffic at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the upcoming Deepavali long weekend, from 6 November (Friday) to 9 November 2026 (Monday).

The warning comes after more than 6.1mn travellers crossed the two land checkpoints during the recent September school holidays, between 4 and 14 September.

On 4 September alone, more than 599,000 travellers cleared immigration at the checkpoints, setting a new daily record and surpassing the previous high of more than 598,000 crossings on 19 June 2026.

Car travellers departing Singapore during peak hours experienced waiting times of up to three hours for immigration clearance, due to traffic tailbacks from Malaysia.

ICA has also stepped up security checks at all checkpoints since 28 February 2026, in view of the heightened global security environment, particularly recent developments in the Middle East. Travellers should therefore expect longer waiting times during peak travel periods.

Travellers advised to plan journeys ahead and use QR codes

To manage the expected traffic, ICA has encouraged travellers to plan their journeys ahead of time and consider travelling during non-peak hours, such as early mornings and late evenings.

They should also check traffic conditions at the land checkpoints before setting off. Travellers are strongly encouraged to use QR codes generated through the MyICA mobile application for faster immigration clearance.

Since the implementation of ICA's New Clearance Concept, initiatives such as QR code clearance and facial recognition for motorcyclists and pillion riders are said to have increased clearance throughput by more than 35% during departure peak periods. This is equivalent to an additional 7,600 travellers per hour compared with pre-COVID levels in 2019.

ICA also implemented an enhanced SG Arrival Card (SGAC) on 30 September 2026. Short-term visitors entering Singapore through the land checkpoints who wish to submit their SGAC through the MyICA mobile application must update the app to its latest version before submitting their declaration.

Those entering Singapore in foreign-registered cars must also ensure their vehicles have a valid Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP). Without a valid VEP, they will not be able to complete their SGAC submission for entry into Singapore.

ICA warns motorists against queue cutting and traffic offences

Motorists travelling on roads leading to and within the land checkpoints should cooperate with ICA officers, observe lane discipline and comply with traffic rules.

ICA said queue cutting disrupts traffic flow and delays other travellers. Motorists caught queue cutting will be directed to make a U-turn and rejoin the queue from the back.

The authority will also take firm action against travellers who fail to follow officers' instructions or commit traffic offences at the checkpoints.

During the September school holidays, 27 motorists were caught for traffic-related offences and dangerous road behaviour.

Enforcement actions included referrals to the Traffic Police for investigation and prosecution, requiring motorists to make a U-turn and rejoin the queue from the back, and banning motorists from entering Singapore.

Important reminders for travellers crossing the land checkpoints

ICA has also outlined several reminders for travellers ahead of the long weekend.

For all travellers:

• Ensure passports have at least six months of remaining validity.
• All short-term visitors, including holders of in-principle approval for a long-term pass, must submit their SG Arrival Card (SGAC) with a health declaration through the MyICA mobile application within three days before arriving in Singapore.
• Singapore Permanent Residents who have renewed their passports should update their new passport details in their Re-Entry Permit through the MyICA mobile application.
• Long-Term Pass holders must notify ICA or the Ministry of Manpower of any changes to their passport particulars before re-entering Singapore.
• Do not bring prohibited or controlled items into Singapore.
• Use QR codes generated through the MyICA mobile application for faster, passport-less immigration clearance.
• Singapore citizens are encouraged to eRegister with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for overseas travel, so that the ministry can contact them during emergencies and provide assistance where necessary.

For motorists:

• Motorists should exercise caution when travelling through the land checkpoints, where construction and road works are ongoing.
• Works near Woodlands Checkpoint are part of its redevelopment, while those at the departure car zone of Tuas Checkpoint support the progressive implementation of the Automated Passenger Clearance System (APCS).
• Motorists should follow instructions from traffic marshals and ICA officers, pay attention to road signs and comply with traffic diversion instructions.

For bus passengers:

• Travellers in wheelchairs and family groups of up to four members, including those with children below six years old, can use QR codes at the Special Assistance Lanes (SAL) for faster immigration clearance.

For drivers of foreign-registered vehicles:

• Ensure the vehicle has a valid VEP. Drivers without a valid Autopass card, VEP approval email from the Land Transport Authority (LTA), or valid insurance will be turned back.
• Settle any outstanding fines with the respective Singapore Government agencies.
• From 2 November 2026, foreign-registered vehicles with outstanding fines for traffic, parking or vehicular emissions offences committed in Singapore will not be able to apply for or renew their VEP with LTA. They will also be denied entry into Singapore.

Travellers heading across the Causeway this Deepavali weekend should factor in extra time for their journeys, especially during peak hours. Checking traffic conditions before setting off and making sure all travel documents are ready can help make the journey a little smoother.

Happy Deepavali and safe travels!

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