With the upcoming school holidays, heavy traffic is expected at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints in the lead-up to and during the period from Thursday 16 November 2023 to Tuesday 2 January 2024.

2.          During the recent Deepavali long weekend from 10 to 13 November 2023, there was continuous heavy traffic at the land checkpoints, with more than 1.53 million crossings. This exceeds the traveller volume cleared during the Labour Day and Vesak Day long weekends this year. Travellers who are clearing immigration by car may have to wait up to three hours before they are cleared through immigration during peak periods.

3.          In view of the developing situation in the Middle East, ICA has stepped up security measures at the checkpoints.

4.          Travellers are thus advised to factor in additional waiting time or immigration clearance, especially over the weekends. 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.

5.          All travellers using our checkpoints are also advised against the public display and wearing of articles in relation to the Israel-Hamas conflict, given the heightened sensitivities. Unless expressly exempted, the public display of foreign national emblems without a permit is an offence under the Foreign National /Emblems (Control of Display) Act 1949. The authorities will take firm action against those who refuse to comply, including denying their entry into Singapore.

Things to note for a smoother journey

6.          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, One 91.3, Kiss92, Hao 96.3, UFM 100.3.

7.          Motorists using the land checkpoints should refrain from queue cutting as it can cause severe congestion and compromise the safety of other motorists. ICA works closely with the Traffic Police to ensure road discipline at the critical junctions and roads leading to the land checkpoints. Errant motorists caught queue cutting will be turned away and made to re-queue.

8.          Travellers should ensure their passport has a remaining validity of at least six months. Singapore permanent residents who have renewed their passport will have to transfer their Re-Entry Permit to the new passport. Long-Term Pass holders will need to notify ICA or the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) of any change in their passport particulars before their entry into Singapore.

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
15 NOVEMBER 2023