Ministry of Health (MOH) Public Health Advisory
Travellers should refer to the ICA website for the latest information on travelling to/from or transiting through Singapore. For the latest updates on Singapore’s COVID-19 situation, please refer to the MOH website at https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-
Singapore Passport holders may enter Thailand without a visa under the Tourist Visa Exemption Scheme (TVES). Those who wish to apply for long-term stay visas may submit their visa applications to the Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore (https://www.thaiembassy.sg).
Singaporeans should closely monitor the news and official announcements by both the Singaporean and Thai governments on the latest travel requirements. They may wish to refer to https://www.tatnews.org/category/thailand-tourism-news/ for more details on entry requirements into Thailand. They are also encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Singaporeans who require consular assistance may also contact the Singapore Embassy in Bangkok at the contact number provided below. Singaporeans are strongly encouraged to e-register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/ so that they can be contacted should the need arise. They may follow the Singapore Embassy in Bangkok’s Facebook (@SingaporeEmbassyBangkok) and Instagram (@sg.embassy.bangkok) pages to receive the latest consular related news and updates.
Mission Contact Details
Tel: +66 2-348-6700
Emergency Tel (for consular emergencies after office hours): +66-81-844-3580
Fax: +66-2-348-6701
Email: singemb_bkk@mfa.sg
Address: 129 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120
URL: https://www.mfa.gov.sg/bangkok
MFA HQ Contact Details
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Tanglin, Singapore 248163
Tel: +65 6379 8000
Southern Provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and Songkhla: The security situation in Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and Southern Songkhla (Chana District, Na Thawi District, Thepha District and Saba Yoi District) remains a serious concern, as incidents of violence occur almost daily, including arson, bombings and shootings. Singaporeans are advised to avoid all non-essential travel to these areas. If you must travel to these areas, you should exercise utmost caution. Martial law is currently in force in Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala, while four districts in Songkhla (Chana district, Na Thawi district, Thepa district, and Saba Yoi district) remain governed by the Internal Security Act.
Terrorism: Terrorism is a threat around the world, including in Thailand. You are advised to stay vigilant and look out for your personal security and safety when travelling, particularly in areas which are frequented by foreigners. Also, monitor local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities on the areas to avoid.
Crime: Tourists are sometimes the target for petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft. Pickpockets may use razors to slit bags, especially in crowded markets and shopping streets. Make sure that your valuables are kept securely and out of sight to reduce the chances of being targeted by criminals.
Incidents of drink spiking, usually followed by sexual assault or theft, have been reported. Do not leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect that you have been drugged.
Should you become the victim of a crime, make a report to the Thai police as soon as possible before you leave the country.
Scams/Fraud: There have been reports of scams involving the rental of vehicles to foreigners. The victim is usually accused by the rental company of damaging the vehicle which they rented, such as cars, motorcycles and jet skis, and asked to pay for repairs. You are advised to rent only from reputable licensed companies, and to carefully read the rental contract before entering into one and purchase comprehensive insurance with third party coverage. You should thoroughly check the condition of the rental vehicle before renting it, so as to minimise the risk of a dispute over damage to the vehicle when it is returned to the rental company. Do not leave your passport as collateral when renting vehicles.
There are also scams involving the sale of gems and jewellery, in which merchants sell low quality items at inflated prices.
Taxi and “tuk-tuk” drivers may sometimes attempt to charge excessive fares. You should either ask the driver to use the meter, or reach an agreement on the fare before boarding the vehicle.
Some bars and entertainment venues charge exorbitant prices for drinks or unadvertised cover charges. They may also threaten the customers with violence if they do not pay up. Should there be a dispute and you feel threatened, seek immediate assistance from the Thai police.
Road Safety: According to the World Health Organisation, Thailand has one of the world’s highest traffic-related fatality rates. Factors contributing to the high incidence of traffic accidents include hazardous road conditions, reckless driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Be careful when driving in Thailand, and ensure that you have the appropriate licence and insurance. Even though many people may not do so, Thai law requires that a motor-cyclist and his passenger wear safety helmets. Failure to do so may result in a fine.
Motorcycles and scooters for rent at beach resorts are often unregistered and cannot be used legally on a public road. Before you rent a vehicle, check the small print of the lease agreement and make sure that you are covered by comprehensive insurance with third party coverage.
Swimming and Water Activities: There have been deaths by drowning at the seaside, especially during the monsoon season when the currents can be strong. Always comply with warning signs and only swim at approved beaches.
Poisonous jellyfish swimming close to the shore have also caused some deaths. You should seek advice from hotels and/or dive centres on potential danger areas. If stung, seek immediate medical assistance.
Visitors are subject to Thai laws when travelling in Thailand. If visitors violate local laws, even unknowingly, they may be fined, arrested, imprisoned or expelled.
Lèse-majesté: Actions or words which are deemed to be critical, insulting, defamatory or threatening to the Thai monarchy are illegal in Thailand, and may result in criminal prosecution and a long jail sentence.
Drug Laws: The Thai police conducts frequent spot-checks for illegal drugs, particularly in and around entertainment venues. Possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs (even in small quantities) carry strict penalties, including the death sentence for serious offences. If you are carrying prescription or other medications, keep them in clearly marked, original packaging to avoid misunderstanding by the police.
Driving into Thailand: If you plan to drive into Thailand, at all times carry your passport, driver’s licence and vehicle registration document for proof of vehicle ownership.
Duty Free Items: Duty-free exemptions in Thailand are capped at 200 cigarettes (or equivalent of 250 grams of tobacco) and 1 litre of wine or spirits per person. Those who exceed the limit may be fined and their items confiscated.
Electronic Cigarettes: It is prohibited to import electronic cigarettes, e-barakus (e-hashish) and refills into Thailand, even if they are for personal use. Convicted offenders can receive heavy fines and/or jail sentences.
Smoking ban at beaches: The Thai authorities have introduced a smoking ban on 24 popular beaches in Thailand, which include those in Koh Samui, Pattaya, Phuket, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chon Buri and Songkhla provinces. Those who violate the ban can face heavy fines and/or imprisonment.
Arrest Notification: Singaporeans who are arrested or detained have the right to request the Thai police or prison officials to notify the Singapore Embassy in Bangkok so that the Embassy can render them consular assistance.
Rainy season: The rainy season in much of Thailand runs from May to October. However, in recent years, the monsoons have been unpredictable. Severe rainstorms sometimes cause flash floods, including in Bangkok. Given the risk of landslides, you should avoid travel to mountainous areas during or immediately after periods of heavy rainfall.
Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]
Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.
Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.
When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.
For those planning to travel, here are some tips:
Before travelling
While travelling
Advisory: Email Scams
There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.
MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously. Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance. If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request. It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc. Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails. Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately. Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.
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.
