ICA's advisory for Malaysia-bound travellers via land checkpoints ahead of Vesak Day and June school holidays

"With the stepped-up security measures at the checkpoints due to the heightened threat situation, travellers should expect delays and factor in additional time for immigration clearance," ICA commented.

With the upcoming Vesak Day public holiday on 22 May (Wednesday) and the June school holidays, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in Singapore anticipates significant traffic congestion at both the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from 21 May (Tuesday) to 23 June 2024 (Sunday).

The Authority shared in a press release on Monday (20 May 2024) that during the recent Good Friday long weekend from 28 March to 1 April 2024, close to 2.3mn travellers crossed Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints (more than 455,000 crossings daily) — an increase of close to 30% compared to the same Good Friday long weekend period in 2023. During peak periods, travellers departing by car had to wait up to three hours before they were cleared through immigration, due to traffic tailback from Malaysia.

Additionally, it said that "with the stepped-up security measures at the checkpoints due to the heightened threat situation, travellers should expect delays and factor in additional time for immigration clearance." 

"We seek travellers’ understanding and cooperation to be patient, observe traffic rules, maintain lane discipline, and cooperate with ICA officers," the Authority said.

According to a Facebook post by ICA, security measures include increased patrols and enhanced checks on travellers and conveyances.

The post was a re-share on a post by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore, which noted that these security measures are a result of an attack that took place at a police station in Johor last week.

In its press release, ICA shared some things for travellers to note to ensure a smoother journey: 

Important reminders

• Ensure that your passport has a remaining validity of at least six months.
• Singapore Permanent Residents who have renewed their passport should ensure that their Re-Entry Permit has been transferred to the new passport.
• Long-Term Pass holders should notify ICA or the Ministry of Manpower of any change in their passport particulars before re-entering Singapore.
• Do not bring in prohibited or controlled items.
• All short-term visitors, including holders of in-principle approval for long-term pass, are required to submit their Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) with health declaration via the MyICA mobile application within three days prior to their arrival in Singapore.

For all motorists

• Check the traffic situation at the land checkpoints before embarking on your journey.
• Refrain from queue cutting as it can cause severe congestion and compromise the safety of other motorists. Errant motorists caught queue cutting will be turned away and made to re-queue.
• Those travelling by car are encouraged to use QR codes in lieu of passports for faster and more convenient immigration clearance. More information can be found on ICA’s website.

For drivers of foreign vehicles

• Ensure that your vehicle’s Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is valid. Drivers who do not have a valid Autopass card, the VEP approval email from LTA, or valid insurance will be turned back. More details on VEP application can be found on LTA One Motoring website.
• Settle any outstanding fines you may have with the respective government agencies. Those with outstanding fines may be denied entry into Singapore. 

More information can be found in the press release issued by ICA. 

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