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Travelling to Singapore

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- 19 . 

Travel Notice for China

Singaporeans intending to travel to China should refer to the PRC Embassy website for the latest announcements on travel requirements, restrictions, advisories issued by the Chinese authorities at  http://www.chinaembassy.org. sg/eng/lsfw/ .

With effect from  9 February 2024 ,  holders of ordinary passports issued by Singapore will be exempted from visa requirements for a stay of up to 30 days in China, under a reciprocal visa exemption arrangement with China.  Please refer to ICA’s website for more details:  https://www.ica.gov.sg/news- and-publications/newsroom/ media-release/mutual-30-day- visa-exemption-arrangement- between-singapore-and-the- people-s-republic-of-china

Entry and Exit

Travellers to Mainland China are no longer subject to quarantine on entry since 8 January 2023.

From 30 August 2023, travellers to Mainland China are no longer required to undergo COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Tests (ART) or Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests before entering China.

Safety and Security

Lost passports: Singaporeans who lose their passports while travelling in China should report the loss to a neighbourhood police post or the relevant Chinese authority (it is usually the local Entry-Exit Administration Bureau). The person concerned should report the loss to the Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) immediately via the ICA's e-service ("Report Online") using the person's Singpass Account. If a new passport is required, an application may be submitted via ICA's e-Service one working day after reporting the loss. Please refer to ICA's website at  https://www.ica.gov.sg/documents/passport/loss  for more information. Alternatively, the person may approach the Singapore Embassy or the nearest Singapore Consulate-General with a copy of the Loss of Passport Report from the Police or the relevant authority, one passport-sized photograph (instant photograph is acceptable) and documentary evidence of his/her citizenship (e.g. NRIC or driving license) to report the loss and apply for a new passport.

If you wish to return to Singapore immediately, a Document of Identity (DOI) may be issued to you upon confirmation of your citizenship with ICA. With the DOI, you are required to go to the local Entry-Exit Administration Bureau to obtain an Exit Permit before you can leave China. You may be required to prove to the Entry-Exit Administration Bureau that you have registered with a hotel or a local police station when you first arrived in China. This is to facilitate investigation by the Entry-Exit Administration Bureau before they can issue you an Exit Permit to leave China. It normally takes about 5 working days to obtain the Exit Permit for foreigners who have lost their passports in China.

Crime: China is generally safe, particularly in the major cities. Serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare. Nonetheless, travellers should undertake the usual precautions and be responsible for your own safety and belongings. Please take an authorised taxi where possible. 

Beware of fraud: Foreigners have been the target of a number of scams when travelling in China. It is important that you stay informed and vigilant against scams and do not reveal sensitive personal information or bank details to unauthorised personnel.

Road Safety: Pedestrians should be alert at all times to unexpected oncoming traffic. Drivers should note that there are stiff penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol.

China has a good public transport system. You will need a valid ID (e.g. passport) to buy a train ticket and may need to show it again before boarding.

Weather: Weather conditions vary across China. The rainy season occurs between April and October.  Typhoons can occur in the South and East coasts between May and November.  Please monitor the local weather report before travelling to any part of China. Some provinces such as Sichuan and Yunnan are prone to earthquakes as they lie within the active seismic zone.

In case of air pollution, those susceptible to respiratory problems can consider taking necessary precautions. The Ministry of Environmental Protection of the People's Republic of China ( www.mep.gov.cn ) provides a daily update on the Air Quality Index for major cities in China.

To receive the latest news from our China Missions, you may wish to eRegister ( https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg ) once you have confirmed your travel to China.

All foreigners should abide by local laws.  The penalties for drug offences are severe.

In accordance with the Chinese Exit-Entry Administration Law, all foreigners are required to register with the Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 24 hours of arrival. If you are staying at a hotel, the hotel staff will normally register you with the PSB as part of their check-in process. Otherwise, you will have to register yourself at the nearest police station.

Foreigners above 16 years of age are expected to carry their passports with them at all times. Random checks may be carried out by Police during periods of heightened security and political events.

There are restrictions on political activities for foreigners, including participation in public protests. Travellers should exercise caution to avoid any demonstrations and large gatherings. 

Additional Information

Elderly, children and those with pre-existing medical conditions should bring along medical prescriptions and medication which may not be available in China. 

Tap water in China is generally not potable. Travellers can consider buying bottled water for consumption. 

General Travel Advice

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

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website ( www.mfa.gov.sg ) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

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.

Travel Page

New Singapore-China visa-free travel agreement draws mixed reactions; experts don't foresee influx of Chinese tourists

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SINGAPORE — Travelling to visit his family back in Dalian and Hainan in China during the throes of Covid-19 restrictions in 2020 and 2021 was a “massive hassle to deal with”, said 27-year-old Xu Yuchuan. 

Travellers in the arrival area of Changi Airport in Singapore.

• Singapore and China have agreed on a mutual 30-day visa-free travel arrangement come 2024 
• This announcement brought much joy to those with families in China, allowing them to visit more often
• Some youths TODAY spoke to said the news has piqued their interest in travelling to China  
• Travel experts believe this new arrangement will boost tourism for both countries

Between 2020 and 2021, Mr Xu could not travel to China to visit his family because of the Covid-19 restrictions. When these were lifted in 2022, travelling to China still required a laundry list of documents that needed to be notarised by various authorities.

There were also seemingly countless polymerase chain reaction tests and antigen rapid tests that needed to be done, all of which made it very difficult for Mr Xu to see his family. 

“My mum was especially upset because my grandparents are very old, so every year that we get to see them is precious,” said Mr Xu. 

The announcement on Dec 7 that Singapore and China have agreed on a mutual, 30-day visa-free travel arrangement brought much cheer to those with families in China. 

This was among the 24 agreements announced at a forum by the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation held in China. The council was also co-chaired by Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for the first time. 

Since late July, China has resumed the 15-day visa-free facility for Singaporeans travelling to China on ordinary passports for business, tourism, family visits and transit purposes. 

The arrangement was suspended for more than three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As someone who came from China and is now a Singaporean citizen, this is great news,” said Mr Xu. “Most of my family are in China, and this allows me to visit them for a longer period of time without having to worry about the two-week constraint.”

While the news is heartening for some, for those with no ties in China, the new arrangements did little to pique their interest in travelling to China.

Ms Amanda Ng, 27, said that the new arrangements change little for her because when she thinks of China, it is usually for the purposes of a holiday and nothing else. 

The marketing executive added: “I wouldn’t do holidays past 15 days because of work commitments. Hence, the extension isn’t a big deal for me.”

In light of the news, some experts TODAY spoke to said this new arrangement will boost the tourism sectors of both countries. 

However, one expert doubts if this new arrangement will “move the inbound needle drastically”, given that Singapore is still an expensive destination compared with other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Malaysia. 

MIXED RESPONSES FROM YOUTHS 

The mutual 30-day visa-free arrangement was also met with mixed reactions. 

Mr Xu, who has family in China, is elated at the news. The arrangement would allow him to visit his family up to two to three times a year instead of once a year as he does now. 

“I’ll go back more to visit my family or just for vacation. I’m self-employed, so my schedule is very flexible,” said Mr Xu. 

For Rebekka Lim, a 17-year-old social work student at Nanyang Polytechnic, she would be more keen to travel to China. 

“I’ve really been wanting to go to some other country ever since I graduated from secondary school,” she said. 

Besides visa-free travel between Singapore and China, one of the agreements announced during the forum was to enhance student exchange programmes, especially in science and technology.

While that was interesting to Rebekka, as a social work student, she hopes there would be support for student exchanges in her field. 

“I think it would be interesting to see their social work system. It is similar to my school’s overseas trip to Japan to visit a university and see their social work course,” she added. 

Ms Valerie Ng, 28, called the arrangement between Singapore and China “a bold move” that is great for people who frequently do business in China and those with families there. 

However, she questioned if the agreement would “run the risk of tipping Singapore’s tourism industry to be overdependent on Chinese tourists”. 

TOURISM BOON FOR BOTH COUNTRIES?

While experts agree that this change will boost tourism in both countries, there might not be a massive spike in Chinese tourists to Singapore.

Mr Christopher Khoo, managing director at tourism consultancy MasterConsult Services, said: “The China outbound market is much slower in taking off for a couple of reasons. China was the last country to lift Covid travel restrictions, and the Chinese turned instead to domestic tourism, which benefitted greatly during the Covid-19 years.” 

He added that the Chinese economy is not as “exuberant” as it was pre-Covid, which translates into hesitancy and probably less disposable income for Chinese citizens.

Dr Kevin Cheong, an adjunct lecturer at the Singapore Management University, said the arrangement will “reduce one of the barriers” to visit Singapore.

“It should bring in more Chinese tourists, but I do not know if it will move the inbound needle drastically. The costs of travel such as airfare and accommodations and the exchange rate make Singapore a rather expensive destination compared with Thailand, Malaysia and Japan,” he said.

It might be the opposite for Singaporeans travelling to China, and the interest in China would only grow, Dr Cheong added.

“Post Covid-19, people go for long holidays,” he said. “They want to see more exotic places, and we tend not to put off the trips. We are now 'living it up' more so than before.”

Dr Cheong hopes that airfares will “soften” as more people travel, so that flights between Singapore and China become more affordable, thus increasing the traffic between both countries.

“I anticipate Chinese tourists coming to Singapore for business and possibly using Singapore as the springboard to the region and beyond,” he added.

Travel site Trip.com said that the search volume for "Singapore" increased by 80 per cent in the hour after the announcement of the news compared with the hour before. 

Flight ticket searches and hotel searches also went up by 90 per cent and 50 per cent, respectively, said Ms Ru Yi, general manager of Trip.com in Singapore.

“Singapore is a popular destination for Chinese outbound tourism and an important source of inbound tourism,” said Ms Ru.

“Tourist-friendly policies such as this will definitely spur international travel as they remove a pain point in the travel planning process, and we look forward to the start of visa-free travel between Singapore and China in the new year.”

A similar surge in interest by Chinese travellers could also be seen in the latest search data from travel platform Booking.com.

Singapore now ranks seventh among the top searched destinations for Chinese travellers, climbing 46 spots from 2022, said a Booking.com spokesperson. 

Conversely, Singapore travellers are also looking up trips to China over the past year. Chinese cities Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, and Shenzhen belong in the list of the top 100 most searched destinations by Singaporean travellers in 2023.

"This extended visa-free duration might encourage travellers to plan more extensive itineraries, leveraging the cost advantages conferred by the visa exemption," added a Booking.com spokesperson. 

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China Resumes 15-Day Visa-Free Travel for Singaporeans and Other FAQs You Need to Know

For the first time since it closed its borders in 2020.

It’s been some time since our last trip to China (back in 2019 when we visited Yunnan ). So we were really happy to hear that China had resumed issuing visas to international tourists back in March 2023 — after temporarily stopping it since 2020.

And now, with the latest update, we’re even more excited to know that Singaporeans will be able to travel visa-free to China starting 26 July 2023!

Here’s what we know: ordinary Singapore passport holders will be allowed to travel to China for leisure, business, and transit purposes without a visa — provided their stay is only 15 days or less.

If China has been on your bucket list, we bet you’ll be asking these questions so here’s a round-up of all the frequently asked questions and what we know so far! Bookmark this article for the latest updates on travelling to China post-Covid.

Which parts of China are visa-free?

Photo credit: En.sanyatour.com

Not many travellers know but even before the pandemic, there were already a few visa-free states in China. Examples include Hainan — affectionally called the Hawaii of China — and cruise ships traversing Shanghai port.

Back in March 2023, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has already allowed visa-free entry in places which had no visa entry requirements prior to the pandemic.

Tourists coming from Hong Kong and Macau can also visit the coastal province of Guangdong without presenting a visa.

Do I need to get tested for COVID-19?

Since 29 Apr 2023, China no longer requires a negative PCR test result for inbound travellers. Instead, they can just take a home rapid antigen test (RAT) at least 48 hours prior to flight departure. Airlines will also not be checking test results.

Photo credit: China Embassy

However, you will still need to fill out the China Customs’ health declaration form. This can be done via WeChat (scan the QR code above), the website , or their app. Officials will also be conducting spot checks when they deem necessary.

If positive, you may self-isolate in your accommodation or be sent to a medical facility if needed.

Travellers coming from Hong Kong or Macau will not have to present any test result — provided that they didn’t go outside of those places seven days prior to entry.

There has been no confirmation whether or not vaccine certificates are required, but again, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Is there still a quarantine period when I enter China?

No. Since early January this year, travellers coming from other countries have not been required to undergo any isolation or quarantine protocols.

What are the entry requirements for Hong Kong?

Hong Kong now allows tourists to enter their premises without needing to present proof of vaccination or any negative Covid-19 test result. They also allow visa-free travel for Singaporean citizens.

What are the entry requirements for Macau?

Similar to Hong Kong, Macau has dropped the requirement to present proof of vaccination or any COVID-19 test result before boarding.

Do I still have to wear a face mask when travelling in China?

Photo credit: US News

Even before China reopened its borders, wearing a face mask has not been required for locals and tourists. But it is strongly encouraged to do so in certain public settings like trains or buses.

Since March 2023, Hong Kong and Macau have lifted their mask mandates as well!

Preparing for your trip to China

We’re as excited as you to finally be able to explore China now that it has reopened and resumed visa-free travel for Singaporeans. Don’t forget to prepare your travel essentials:

– Passport – Vaccination certificate (just in case!) – Travel insurance

And of course, travelling to China can be overwhelming with so many things to do (don’t even get us started on Hong Kong and Macau ). To help you out in planning that trip, feel free to browse through our itineraries and guides for inspiration:

– 2-Week China Itinerary — Rail Adventure Across Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou – 19 Reasons to Visit China’s Most Underrated Cities — Wuhan, Changsha & Zhangjiajie – Ultimate First-Timer’s Guide to China: 14 Exciting Things To Do In Beijing – 25 Exciting Things to Do in Shanghai — First Timer’s Guide From Must-Dos to Hidden Gems

Which city or province are you excited to visit now that visa-free travel for Singaporeans has resumed? Let us know in the comments below!

Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , YouTube , and Telegram for more travel inspiration!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by thetravelintern.com 🇸🇬 (@thetravelintern)

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Singapore – China Mutual Visa Free Travel Starts Feb 9, 2024

Starting February 9, just in time for Chinese New Year, Singapore and China will implement a 30-day visa-free travel arrangement for ordinary passport holders, enhancing travel and exchanges between the two nations. This follows a mutual agreement, aiming to facilitate easier movement, business, and tourism, reflecting both countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and economic opportunities. Despite the previous 15-day visa-free policy for Singaporeans visiting China, this new arrangement marks a significant step forward in promoting cultural understanding and people-to-people connections, expected to boost travel interest and economic engagement between Singapore and China.

The Singapore-China Mutual 30 Day Visa Free travel arrangement will allow ordinary passport holders from Singapore and China for visa free travel and stay up to 30 days in each other’s country.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has stated that processing fees for prior visa applications will not be refunded following the announcement of a 30-day visa-exemption arrangement with China. This new policy, exempting diplomatic and certain passport holders from visa requirements, aims to enhance travel, business, and cultural exchanges between Singapore and China. The Chinese Foreign Ministry described this move as a festive gift, highlighting the mutual visa exemption agreements China now holds with 22 countries. Singapore’s Embassy in Beijing anticipates this arrangement will strengthen ties and boost economic opportunities, noting a desire for increased tourism and business travel between the two nations.

Following the announcement, travel agencies based out of China saw a humungous increase in Singapore-related travel interest within an hour, compared to the same timeframe the previous day. A popular travel agency reported a 340% surge in Singapore-related searches within just 30 minutes of the news, with flight searches for the Chinese New Year period rising fivefold. Coastal regions like Guangdong, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Shandong, and Zhejiang showed the highest interest in visiting Singapore. Recently travel agencies have also commented that China tops the list of Outbound Destinations for Singaporeans

China offers extensive travel connectivity for tourists, featuring a comprehensive network of high-speed trains, domestic flights, buses, and modern city metro systems. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Xi’an are well-connected, making it easy for travelers to explore the vast country. Additionally, domestic airlines serve a wide range of destinations, including remote regions. For urban travel, metros provide a convenient way to navigate cities, complemented by extensive bus services for shorter distances or areas not covered by rail. Similarly Singapore has a well-connected MRT system which allows tourists to explore the city-state without any hassle. Additionally, Singapore is also connected to Malaysia and the nearby islands of Batam and Bintan in Indonesia. Check more about bus ticket booking in Singapore.

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China-Singapore visa-free era boosts two-way tourism

A 40-meter-high circular indoor waterfall pours into the building from the roof as passengers walk and take pictures at Changi Airport, a glass circular building surrounded by hanging terraced gardens, in Singapore, October 4, 2023. /CFP

Editor's note: Yu Hong, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a Senior Research Fellow of the East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore.The article reflects the author's views, and not necessarily those of CGTN.

On February 9, the agreement between China and Singapore regarding mutual visa exemption for holders of ordinary passports came into effect. With the implementation of the "mutual visa exemption" policy, two-way travel between China and Singapore has become easier.

Singapore has always been one of the most popular outbound destinations for Chinese citizens, and the visa waiver policy between the two countries is conducive to the development of tourism on both sides. The implementation of the visa-free measures will further strengthen Singapore's status as an international tourist city, and play an important role in Singapore's service economy. The visa-free era will also promote people-to-people cultural exchanges, which will play an important role in the long-term friendship and mutual understanding between China and Singapore.

Visitors watch a show with sculptures of a 140-meter-long dragon (L) and a god of fortune (C) around the Supertrees observatory at Gardens by the Bay in Singapore on February 7, 2024, ahead of the Lunar New Year of the Dragon which fell on February 10. /CFP

First of all, Singapore has a convenient and efficient transportation system as a regional transport hub. Singapore's Changi Airport is one of the busiest aviation hubs in Asia, and Chinese tourists can easily reach Singapore by different flights. With the surge in demand for two-way travel between Singapore and China, airlines will operate between the two countries at a much higher frequency than before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, as an international tourist city located in Asia, Singapore has abundant tourism resources and unique cultural exchanges. Singapore is home to world-renowned attractions such as Sentosa Island and Gardens by the Bay, among others, which are attractive to Chinese tourists. Given the constraint of its relatively limited land area, Singapore continues to develop tourism content. Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore's most iconic tourist attractions, as well as the newly completed Singapore Bird Park at World of Wildlife.

In order to attract more Chinese tourists, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has been actively engaged in marketing and promotional activities and has partnered with China's tourism agencies to enhance the visibility and influence of Singapore's tourism in the Chinese market through brand promotion.

Singapore also participates in travel exhibitions held in China to showcase its tourism resources and services to further attract Chinese tourists. In addition, the STB signed a two-year strategic cooperation memorandum with UnionPay International in November 2023, to create a more convenient payment environment for inbound Chinese tourists.

Chinese tourists' interest has gradually been shifting to local culture over the past few years, and there is an increasing demand for new products related to the integration of culture and tourism.

Recognizing the changing needs of Chinese tourists, the STB launched new travel initiatives in 2023 to enhance the leisure travel experience as well as new or upgraded attractions. In November 2023, the STB also launched a series of creative travel schemes, including immersive experiences with forest bathing and naturopathy, and city walks to experience food sustainability. These new initiatives allow visitors to experience the multi-racial and multicultural atmosphere of Singapore.

In response to the new travel demands and preferences of some tourists, Singapore is attracting overseas tourists to Singapore by hosting high-profile international events, such as music festivals and sporting events. Taylor Swift's concerts held in Singapore also effectively boosted the local economy recently.

Moreover, Singapore is in a good state of law and order. Singapore's renowned legal system protects the legitimate rights and interests of tourists and punishes acts that infringe on their rights and interests, which provides Chinese tourists with the guarantee of peace of mind to travel to Singapore.

China can learn from Singapore's experience in developing tourism and attracting foreign tourists. First, China's tourism authorities and enterprises can promote Chinese tourist attractions and cultural and natural scenery by expanding cooperation with local tourism operators and hosting exhibitions and promotional roadshows overseas.

Secondly, according to the travel preferences of foreign tourists and the characteristics of specific tourism groups, different tourism routes and tourism packages should be designed to attract overseas tourists to visit China. Third, more convenient services can be provided for foreign tourists traveling to China, such as the simplified visa application and more payment methods. The recent introduction of immigration facilitation measures by the Chinese authorities willsurely help attract more foreigners to visit China.

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at [email protected]. Follow @thouse_opinions on Twitter to discover the latest commentaries in the CGTN Opinion Section.)

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Singapore, China to start 30-day visa-free travel in early 2024

• Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Chinese vice-premier Ding Xuexiang meet in Tianjin, China to co-chair the 19th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation. PHOTO: LIM YAOHUI, ST

[TIANJIN] Singapore and China are looking to establish a mutual 30-day visa exemption arrangement, as the two nations seek to push travel back to and beyond pre-Covid levels.

According to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both countries will work out the implementation details and implement it in early 2024.

People flows between the two countries have been improving, and flight connectivity is approaching pre-Covid levels, said Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Thursday (Dec 7) during the 19th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Tianjin, China.

“We hope to get to pre-Covid levels and even go beyond pre-Covid levels in terms of our direct flight connectivity,” said Wong, adding that the new visa-free arrangements seek to support this goal.

This follows the resumption of China’s 15-day visa-free facility for Singaporean travellers on Jul 26 this year, more than three years after it was suspended early in the pandemic.

A total of 3.63 million Chinese tourists visited Singapore in 2019. For the first five months of this year, arrivals rose to just 20 per cent of pre-Covid-19 levels, and were overtaken by visitors from Indonesia, India and Australia.

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In July, total international arrivals climbed to 1.42 million, driven by a stronger return of Chinese travellers, which more than doubled from June to 231,326.

In February, China resumed group tours to Singapore and other countries. However, overall growth in outbound tourism from China has remained lukewarm, compared with domestic tourism, as international flights have been slow to resume.

Factors for the slower-than-hoped-for rebound include higher airfares and more cautious spending amid China’s slowing growth.

Establishing this new travel arrangement will also “fortify the bedrock of (Singapore and China’s) financial relationships”, DPM Wong said.

This is the first time Wong and his Chinese counterpart, Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang, are co-chairing the JCBC – the apex bilateral platform for Singapore and China.

It is also the first time that the meeting is taking place since both countries officially upgraded their relations in April to an “all-round, high-quality, future-oriented partnership”, after Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong met Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Chinese capital.

In his opening remarks, Wong stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between the two countries amid geopolitical uncertainty and global economic headwinds.

“I’m very happy that in this JCBC, we will be discussing ways to renew and extend our economic links, to reimagine our industries so that they are ready for the future, and to reinforce the close ties across all levels,” he added.

Even as Singapore and China consolidate their cooperation in “traditional” areas such as trade and investments, they are also broadening and deepening their partnerships in new and emerging areas, such as the green and digital economies, said Wong.

As China leverages digital development strategies to develop its economy, “Singapore will also continue to participate in the growth of these features”, he added.

Speaking in Mandarin, Vice-Premier Ding said he hopes Singapore and China can further establish a new landscape for both countries to cooperate in a mutually beneficial manner in the “new era” of bilateral relations.

He noted that since the beginning of this year, both countries have seen fruitful outcomes and multiple highlights in their cooperation.

Economic and trade cooperation has scaled to new heights, “high quality” Belt and Road cooperation is proceeding steadily, and “key cooperation programmes” have been implemented in a profound way, he said.

The JCBC is thus for both countries to identify the trajectory for cooperation in the next phase of relations, and to jointly implement the consensus reached between the two leaders, said Ding.

“I believe, with our joint efforts, these meetings will achieve full success,” he said.

Wong is currently on a four-day official visit to China, and is now in Tianjin for the 19th edition of the JCBC. He was previously in the capital Beijing, where he met with Chinese premier Li Qiang and vice-premier He Lifeng .

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In general, CNTOS aims to establish good tourism image for China, and to facilitate effective communications, working relations and supports to the development of the travel industry between China and the four countries that we’ve mentioned above. 

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Singapore Tourist Visa (e-Visa): Requirements and Application Process

Updated: May 10, 2024

A Singapore tourist visa (e-Visa) is required for nationals of 35 countries traveling to Singapore as tourists. 

Even though it’s an e-Visa, you cannot apply for it on your own. You need a Singapore local contact or an authorized visa agent to apply for the e-Visa on your behalf. 

Quick summary:

• Who requires it: Nationals of 35 countries
• Validity: 30 days to 2 years, single or multiple-entry
• Allowed stay: 30 days
• Processing time: 3 working days
• Fee: 30 SGD
• Extensions: Once for 30 days

If you haven’t already, read the Singapore Visa Guide for information on various visa options for tourists, their eligibility and requirements.

Table of Contents

Understanding singapore tourist visa (e-visa).

Tourist visa validity

Singapore tourist visa is valid from 30 days to 2 years. The validity of your tourist visa is decided on a case-by-case basis and nationality. The most common validity granted is 3 months. The exact validity will be written on the e-Visa after it’s issued.

Duration of stay

The allowed duration of stay in Singapore is 30 days. Your stay inside Singapore cannot exceed 30 days at a time. 

If you need to stay longer and hold a multiple-entry visa, you can leave and reenter to receive an additional 30-day stay. You can also apply for a 30-day extension from within the country

Allowed number of entries

Singapore tourist visas are usually multiple-entry. But single-entry visas are also issued to certain nationalities such as Bangladesh.

Allowed ports of entry

You can enter Singapore from Changi international airport or any seaport or via land border crossing using the tourist visa. There are no restrictions on where you can enter from.

When to apply

You must apply for your tourist visa within 30 days before arrival in Singapore. The processing time is 3 business days. To summarize:

• Latest: 1 week before traveling
• Earliest: 30 days before traveling

Tourist visa extension

Tourist visa validity cannot be extended but you can extend your allowed stay for additional 30 days once. 

You must apply online on the eServices portal no more than 14 days before the last day of your allowed duration of stay in Singapore.

You require a local sponsor to submit your extension application if you hold a passport from one of the Assessment Level II countries.

Visa extension fee is 30 SGD, are processed within 3 business days and are not guaranteed.

Singapore Tourist Visa (e-Visa) Requirements

Tourist visa eligibility

The countries eligible for the tourist visa are divided into 2 tiers – Assessment Level I and Assessment Level II.

The difference is in the required documents. Chiefly, Level II countries must also submit a Letter of Introduction for Visa Application (LOI).

Assessment Level I Countries

• North Korea
• Turkmenistan

The above countries except North Korea are also eligible for Singapore VFTF if holding a visa from an eligible country.

Assessment Level II Countries

• Afghanistan
• South Sudan

Documents required

The following documents are required for the tourist visa.

• Passport valid for at least 6 months on the day of arrival in Singapore
• Photocopy of passport biodata page
• Completed and signed Form 14A
• One passport-size photo (digital photo if using a local contact to apply)

In addition, only Level II countries need to submit this:

• Completed Form V39A (also called a Letter of Introduction for Visa Application or LOI), issued by a local contact in Singapore.

The LOI must be issued by a local contact in Singapore. The local contact must meet the following requirements. 

• Must be a Singapore citizen or a Singapore permanent resident
• Must be at least 21 years old
• Must have a Singpass account

If you don’t know anybody in Singapore who could help you with that, you can instead use an authorized visa agent to assist you with the Letter of Introduction.

Photo requirements

The photo must meet the following requirements.

• Must be taken within the last 3 months
• Must be in color against a plane white background
• Equal brightness, clear, sharp, and not pixelated
• Neutral facial expression with a closed mouth
• Fully visible shoulders and hair
• Any head covering must be dark in color against a white background
• Glasses are permitted as long as the lenses are untinted
• Fully visible eyes and no red eye
• No digital alterations

The digital photo file must meet the following requirements.

• Dimensions of the photo must be 400px x 514px
• Photo size must be of maximum 60KB
• Photo format must be JPG or JPEG

Tourist visa fee

The tourist visa fee is 30 SGD (~22 USD) and is payable online. If using an authorized agent to apply for your visa, you may have to pay the fee in cash in local currency. 

Processing time

The standard processing time for the tourist visa is 3 business days excluding the day of submission.

Tourist Visa (e-Visa) Application Process

You cannot apply for the Singapore tourist visa (e-Visa) on your own. You must apply using a Singapore local contact or an authorized visa agent.

Most Singapore overseas missions do not accept tourist visa applications. They will ask you to use a local contact or an authorized agent. 

But there are still a handful of Singapore embassies in the world that are still accepting tourist visa applications. 

In summary, there are 3 ways to apply for Singapore tourist visa.

• Apply using a local contact
• Apply using an authorized visa agent
• Apply at a Singapore Overseas Mission

Let’s look at each of these options in detail.

1. Apply for tourist visa using a local contact

You must know someone in Singapore who can act as your local contact to apply for the tourist visa on your behalf. 

This local contact in Singapore must have a “Singpass” account. Only Singapore citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents have Singpass accounts. 

Send the following information and documents to your local contact.

• A copy of your passport ID page 
• A digital passport-size photo
• Your email address, phone number
• Your current occupation, highest educational degree and annual income (in SGD)
• Your date of arrival, intended stay, and country of departure

Have your local contact follow the below steps to apply for your e-Visa.

Step 1 : Navigate to the Submission of Application for Visa Electronically (SAVE) portal.

Step 2 : Select “Apply for Entry Visa as a Local Contact (Individual Users)”. You will be redirected to the Singpass website to log in.

Step 3 : Click on “Create a New Application”.

Step 4 : Sequentially fill in the applicant’s details, travel information, and local contact details, upload a photo, and confirm.

Step 5 : Pay the visa fee of 30 SGD from the “MyCard Payment Summary” page. Download the invoice.

Step 6 : Print or screenshot the acknowledgment page and send it to the applicant. This acknowledgment page has the “Visa Application Reference Number” which is required to track or download the e-Visa. 

If your email was used during the application process, you will also receive an acknowledgment email with the “Visa Application Reference Number”. 

If your local contact used their email, they can forward the acknowledgment email to you so you can make a note of the “Visa Application Reference Number” and track the status of your e-Visa. 

The processing of the e-Visa takes 3-5 working days. You can track the application status and download your approved e-Visa. 

Instructions to track the status and download the approved e-Visa are in the sections below. 

2. Apply for tourist visa using an authorized visa agent

The Singapore embassies that do not accept tourist visa applications usually post a list of authorized visa agents on their websites. 

Find the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission in your country and check their website for the list of authorized visa agents.

Go to the authorized visa agent’s office and submit the following documents.

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of your entry into Singapore
• Photocopy of your passport biodata page
• One passport-size photo affixed on the form
• Round-trip flight tickets
• Hotel bookings
• Completed Form V39A LOI (if applicable)
• Visa fee and service fee in local currency

Authorized agents do not keep your original passport with them. Presenting the original passport at the time of application submission is only for verification purposes.

Authorized agents have access to the SAVE portal and they will apply for your visa on your behalf. They will send you the “Visa Application Reference Number” to track and download your approved e-Visa.

Instructions to track the status and download the approved e-Visa are in the sections below.

3. Apply for tourist visa at Singapore overseas mission

Check with your nearest Singapore overseas mission if they accept tourist visa applications. If they do, find out whether you need an appointment or you can just walk in.

Submit the following documents to the Singapore embassy.

• Visa fee in local currency

The embassy will not keep your original passport. Presenting the original passport is only for verification purposes.

You will receive an email from the embassy with the “Visa Application Reference Number” to track and download your approved e-Visa.

How to track tourist visa (e-Visa) status

Even though you had to use a local contact or visa agent to apply, you can track status and download the e-Visa yourself. Follow the below steps to track your e-Visa status.

• Navigate to the Singapore SAVE portal  
• Click on “Enquire Application Status”
• Enter your Visa Application Reference Number, and passport number and click on the “Next” button
• On the next page, you will see your current e-Visa status.

If your visa application is still in process, the status will be “Visa Application in Pending”. If approved, it will be “Your Application is Approved”.

How to download an approved tourist visa (e-Visa)

Follow the above steps to track your e-Visa status. If the visa has been successfully issued, you will see “Your Application is Approved” with your approved visa details. 

Click the “Print e-Visa” button to download your e-Visa as a PDF file. 

Print this e-Visa on an A4 or letter-size sheet and present it with your passport at immigration in Singapore. 

How to contact tourist visa customer service

If you or your local contact have questions, use the following options to contact ICA customer service.

Webpage: Check the User Manual for questions on filling out the visa application  Email: [email protected]

Entry Procedure at the Border

Make sure to print your e-Visa before your trip to Singapore. If you are eligible to use automated immigration lanes, you may not need a print. But the airline might want to see a print of your e-Visa.

Submit SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

You must submit your SG Arrival Card (SGAC) online within 3 days before arrival in Singapore. You can submit SGAC either online or using the MyICA Mobile App.

Use automated immigration lanes

Passport holders from 60 countries are eligible to use automated lanes at Changi airport and land borders. If you are not eligible to use automated lanes, you may pass through manned immigration desks.

You may be asked to present your e-Visa print. You may also be asked to produce proof of onward travel and proof of sufficient cash to ensure that you do not overstay your visa.

Receive Electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass)

Singapore does not stamp passports on entry or exit. After clearing the immigration, an Electronic Visit Pass (e-Pass) is issued and sent to your email which you have mentioned in your SG Arrival Card. 

You can also retrieve your e-Pass on the ICA website using your Disembarkation/Embarkation number (DE No.) or passport information. 

You can find your DE No. in your SG Arrival Card (SGAC) acknowledgment email, PDF or mobile app.

The e-Pass contains the following details:

• Disembarkation/Embarkation number (DE No.)
• Date and time of issuance of visit pass
• Number of days of stay granted
• Last day of stay allowed in Singapore

The e-Pass will also mention whether you are eligible to use the automated lanes for your departure and any subsequent trips to Singapore. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need to print the singapore e-visa.

Yes. You must print the Singapore e-Visa. Singaporean authorities may have the e-Visa on file already, but you are still asked to present if you’re not using the automated immigration lanes. Also, the airline staff might want to see the e-Visa print when checking in. 

Why is there no visa stamp in my passport?

Singapore has phased out issuing physical stamps in passports. Instead, you will be issued an electronic visit pass (e-Pass) and sent to your email shortly after you enter Singapore.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Visiting Singapore

We welcome all visitors to Singapore. To ensure you have a successful and memorable trip, please read on to find out what you need to know.

You should submit your personal information, trip details and health declaration electronically within three days prior to the date of your arrival in Singapore. This can be done using the SG Arrival Card e-Service.

Please note the SG Arrival Card is  not  a visa and the use of the SG Arrival Card e-Service is  free of charge .

You can submit the SG Arrival Card via https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/  or through " MyICA " mobile application that can be downloaded for free from either the App Store  (iOS) or Google Play  (Android). Please refer to entry requirements for more information on entering Singapore.

You will receive your SG Arrival Card in the form of a PDF document (applicable for web service only, see below for a specimen) or email once ICA has successfully processed your submission. Please note that the SG Arrival Card comes with a unique DE Number that accompanies your passport number.

Please see below for a specimen of the SG Arrival Card.

Click to enlarge the image.

You must present yourself for immigration clearance at a point of entry into Singapore. You must satisfy the basic entry requirements before you can be considered for entry. The grant of an immigration pass will be determined by the ICA officers at the point of entry.

From 11 March 2022 , all foreign visitors arriving in Singapore will be notified digitally of their Visit Pass (e-Pass) through email. There will not be any endorsement on your passport. The e-Pass notification will indicate the period of stay granted and last day of stay allowed. Please ensure that you provide a valid email address when submitting the SG Arrival Card .

Please refer to  entry requirements  for more information.

If you hold a travel document issued by one of the listed countries or places, you will require a valid Singapore visa to travel to, and seek entry, into Singapore. Please refer to  visa requirements  if you require a Singapore visa and for more information.

Upon successful processing of your visa application, you will be issued an e-visa in the form of a PDF document.

Please note that possession of a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore . The grant of an immigration pass will be determined by the ICA officers at the point of entry. The period of stay granted is not tied to the validity of your visa.

Please see below for a specimen of the e-visa.

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Travel To China From Singapore [Official Guide & Cheap Tickets]

By ReddotExplorer

September 8, 2023

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey from Singapore to China? Whether you're drawn to China's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, or vibrant culture, this guide will equip you with all the essential information you need for a memorable trip. From visa requirements to the best time to visit and top attractions, we've got you covered. Let's dive into the details that will make your travel dreams to China a reality.

Basic Information About China

Before you set foot in this vast and diverse country, it's essential to familiarize yourself with some basic information:

Visa Requirements (For Singaporeans)

Since 26 July 2023, China has resumed the 15-day visa free facility for Singaporeans travelling to China on ordinary passports for business, tourism, family visit, and transit purposes.

Be prepared to present essential documents such as a valid passport, accurately filled-out application form, recent passport-sized photos, travel itinerary, and, in some cases, proof of accommodation and financial means to cover your stay.

Singaporeans intending to travel to China should refer to the PRC Embassy website for the latest announcements on travel requirements, restrictions, advisories issued by the Chinese authorities.

Travel Restrictions To China

To ensure the safety of travelers and the local population, China has implemented certain COVID-19 testing requirements for entry into the country. Starting from 29 April 2023, significant changes have been made to the COVID-19 testing protocol for entry into China. The once-mandatory nucleic acid tests (PCR) have taken a back seat, and travelers now have the alternative of opting for a home rapid antigen test (RAT) prior to their journey.

Airlines are no longer obligated to conduct COVID-19 test checks before passengers board their flights bound for China. Moreover, upon arrival in China, travelers won't encounter mandatory testing requirements at the airport.

While mandatory tests are no longer in effect, spot checks may be conducted by border authorities. Travelers must ensure they possess their health declaration code, which they obtain after duly completing the health declaration form. Be ready for the possibility of spot checks conducted by vigilant border authorities.

How To Get To China From Singapore

Getting to China from Singapore is a breeze with numerous flight options available. Several airlines operate direct flights from Changi Airport in Singapore to major cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Flight durations vary depending on your destination within China, with most flights taking approximately 4 to 7 hours.

For a hassle-free journey, consider booking your flights well in advance, and explore various airlines for the best deals. Don't forget to pack essentials like your passport, visa, and any required documents for a smooth immigration process.

Accommodation In China

China offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs and budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, or budget-friendly hostels, you'll find options aplenty. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou boast an array of internationally recognized hotel chains, while smaller towns offer unique, locally inspired accommodations.

Best Time To Go To China

Choosing the right time to visit China is essential, as the country experiences various climates throughout the year. Generally, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best seasons to explore China, offering mild temperatures and pleasant weather for outdoor activities. However, the ideal time can vary depending on your specific destination within the country.

Recommended Attractions In China

China, a land of diverse landscapes and rich history, beckons travelers with a treasure trove of captivating attractions. Here's a deeper look into each of these must-visit places:

The Great Wall of China - UNESCO World Heritage Site

A testament to human ingenuity, the Great Wall of China stands as one of the most iconic structures in the world. Stretching over 13,000 miles and encompassing various sections, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into China's storied past.

Walking along its ancient ramparts, you'll be transported back in time, marveling at the craftsmanship that built this colossal defense system. Whether you explore the well-known Badaling section or venture to more remote stretches, the Great Wall promises an awe-inspiring journey through history and breathtaking panoramic views.

The Forbidden City - Beijing

In the heart of Beijing lies the Forbidden City, a sprawling complex that once served as the imperial palace for China's emperors. This architectural masterpiece, with its grand halls, ornate courtyards, and intricate design, is a vivid representation of China's imperial past.

As you wander through its myriad of chambers and passageways, you'll feel the weight of history in every step. The Forbidden City provides a captivating insight into China's imperial era and offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of emperors and empresses.

The Terracotta Army - Xi'an

In the ancient city of Xi'an, you'll encounter a marvel unlike any other – the Terracotta Army. Guarding the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, thousands of life-sized statues, each with its own unique features, stand at attention.

This archaeological wonder is a testament to the craftsmanship of ancient artisans and the Emperor's quest for an eternal army in the afterlife. Exploring the pits where these soldiers, chariots, and horses were unearthed is an immersive journey into China's past and a remarkable display of ancient artistry.

The Li River - Guilin

For a change of pace and breathtaking natural beauty, embark on a cruise along the Li River in Guilin. The landscape here is nothing short of surreal, with towering limestone karsts cloaked in lush greenery. As you meander along the river's gentle curves, you'll feel like you've stepped into a traditional Chinese painting.

Keep your camera ready as you pass picturesque scenes of local fishermen with their cormorant birds and water buffalo leisurely grazing along the banks. This tranquil journey is a chance to immerse yourself in China's serene countryside and create lasting memories.

The Bund - Shanghai

In the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai, the Bund is a waterfront promenade that offers a spectacular view of the city's skyline. As daylight fades and the city comes alive with a dazzling display of lights, this iconic location becomes even more enchanting.

You can stroll along the promenade, admire the eclectic mix of architectural styles, and capture unforgettable photos of Shanghai's modern transformation. The Bund perfectly encapsulates the fusion of old and new in China, where history meets innovation, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

Each of these attractions embodies a different facet of China's cultural and natural diversity, promising a journey filled with wonder and discovery. Whether you're drawn to ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, or modern cityscapes, China has something to offer every traveler's taste.

Getting Around China

Navigating China's vast territory is made easy with an efficient transportation network. From high-speed trains to domestic flights, you can choose the mode of transport that best suits your itinerary. Major cities also have extensive public transportation systems, including subways and buses. When exploring remote areas, consider hiring a local guide or driver for a more immersive experience.

Safety Tips For Traveling To China

While China is a generally safe destination, it's essential to stay vigilant and follow these safety tips:

• Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Stay informed about local news and developments.
• Be cautious when trying street food; ensure it's from reputable vendors.
• Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers and the nearest embassy or consulate.

FAQs: Travel To China From Singapore

Do singaporeans need a visa for china, what's the best time to visit china, how do i get around in china, what is the best way to exchange currency in china as a traveler, are there any specific local customs i should be aware of when visiting china, travel to china from singapore conclusion.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey from Singapore to China by taking note of visa requirements, travel restrictions, accommodations, and the best times to visit. With safety precautions in mind and a sense of adventure, you're ready to explore China's diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Pack your bags and get ready for an incredible adventure!

Travel To China From Singapore

• 1. Basic Information About China
• 2. Visa Requirements (For Singaporeans)
• 3. Travel Restrictions To China
• 4. How To Get To China From Singapore
• 5. Accommodation In China
• 6. Best Time To Go To China
• 7. Recommended Attractions In China
• 8. Getting Around China
• 9. Safety Tips For Traveling To China
• 10. Travel To China From Singapore Conclusion

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Trip.com Group welcomes first batch of Chinese Visa-free travellers to Singapore

Trip.com Group is pleased to welcome the first batch of Chinese tourists to Singapore under the Singapore-China mutual 30-day visa-free arrangement. Among the Chinese travellers who arrived at Changi Airport this morning was a tour group organised by Trip.com Group, landing in Singapore from Beijing.

“I’ve always wanted to visit Singapore, which is on the list of my top holiday destinations. Trip.com’s Chinese New Year tour package showcasing Singapore’s best sights and attractions convinced me to travel overseas during the Lunar New Year holidays, especially now that we no longer require a visa. I cannot wait to explore Singapore,” said Feng Shaoxiang, a member of the tour group.

Tourist-friendly measures including visa-free travel remove friction from the travel planning process, making last-minute travel possible, and with the flexibility afforded by the 30-day exemptions now in place, Chinese travellers are also able to make longer trips to Singapore. This has seen the volume of Chinese New Year (CNY) bookings to Singapore made by Chinese travellers on Trip.com Group’s platforms jump 206 times compared to the same period last year. Of these, almost half (47%) of the bookings were made by families.

To welcome Chinese tourists to Singapore, Trip.com Group and its partners in Singapore have launched a series of exclusive promotions. In collaboration with Sentosa Development Corporation, Chinese tourists booking hotels in Singapore via Trip.com Group’s platform will, subject to meeting certain conditions, benefit from a welcome gift from Sentosa with a plethora of exclusive privileges including free entry to Sentosa Island and free admissions to selected attractions, amongst others.

Andrew Phua, Chief Representative and Executive Director of the Greater China Region of the Singapore Tourism Board, said: “Singapore has always been one of the most popular leisure and business travel destinations for Chinese tourists. With Singapore and China officially exempting each other from visas, we believe that will further ignite the enthusiasm of Chinese tourists. In recent years, Singapore has successively launched a number of new or upgraded attractions and large-scale activities, hoping to bring tourists a better and more diverse travel experience. We warmly welcome more Chinese tourists to choose Singapore as an overseas travel destination.”

Edison Chen, Vice President of Destination Marketing & Strategic Alliances, Trip.com Group, said: “In conjunction with visa-free travel to Singapore coinciding with the Chinese New Year holidays, Trip.com Group immediately launched a microsite introducing Singapore’s various attractions, gourmet food map, popular hotels and tours to help drive bookings to Singapore. Plans are also in the pipeline to offer a series of carefully curated Peranakan-themed offerings for tourists to Singapore. We are focused on offering quality travel experiences and are committed to doing our utmost to promote international travel to Singapore.”

Edmund Ong, General Manager, Trip.com Singapore, said: “Since the announcement of visa-free travel between Singapore and China, we have seen an influx of interest, showcasing Singapore’s standing as a preferred travel destination. The tour group arriving this morning is the first of many. As part of our commitment to make every traveller’s trip count, we plan to launch promotional campaigns and curated tour products that highlight Singapore’s uniqueness. We look forward to welcoming more Chinese tourists, facilitated by the greater ease of travel.”

Trip.com Group recently revealed that Singapore will see a 46.8% increase in inbound travel when comparing this year’s CNY festive period with 2023’s CNY period, with an outsized 108.6% increase in total trip expenditure for inbound bookings over the same window.

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11 things to know before visiting Singapore

Mar 9, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan for your trip to Singapore with these things you should know and insider tips © Jakub Zajic / Getty Images

Singapore has a well-cultivated image of being a safe country .

Too safe perhaps for some, who balk at its infamously strict rules and fines for flouting them, and find the gleaming modern city too sanitized for their liking. Others appreciate the clean streets and manicured gardens amidst the tall buildings along with the intriguing mix of people that make up Singapore’s multifaceted culture.

As a Singaporean who’s lived here all her life (and who has always had to explain the country to fellow travelers in foreign hostel common rooms) here’s what you need to know about Singapore, its cultural landscape, and its local customs and quirks, to help you plan your trip to the Little Red Dot.

1. Singapore is small, but with lots to see and do

Compact Singapore takes less than an hour to drive from end to end but there’s a lot packed into this small country. For a first-time visitor, three to four days is usually sufficient to see the main highlights and get a feel of the top things to do in Singapore . 

If you’re really short on time, plan a layover with at least 5.5 hours and you can join one of three free transit tours organized by the excellent Changi Airport for a quick taster of what the country has to offer.

2. Pack for the tropics

Practically located on the equator, expect hot tropical weather ranging from 25 to 35ºC (77 to 95ºF) every single day in Singapore. A small umbrella is essential in case of scorching rays or sudden downpours.

What can be tough for those used to temperate climates is Singapore’s high humidity – 60 to 90% on average throughout the year, so be prepared to sweat it out. Pack light materials or bring a small fan or hankie around with you. Anyone basking under the afternoon sun who’s not on the beach is definitely a tourist – be sure to slap on the sunblock!

Funnily enough, it tends to be a lot colder indoors than outdoors because shopping malls and central cooling overcompensate for the heat.

A scarf or a light jacket will keep you warm, offer extra sun protection and are the perfect cover-up if you plan to visit religious buildings.

3. Singapore is an independent country 

With a majority Chinese population, some people mistakenly assume that Singapore is a part of China, which is not the case. Most Chinese Singaporeans are descendants of southeastern Chinese immigrants who sailed across the seas decades ago. 

Singapore may be hard to spot on a map, but you’ll find it just south of the Malaysian peninsula in Southeast Asia, four hours away from China by plane. On that note, despite its proximity and commonalities in shared culture and history, Singapore is also not a part of Malaysia, though it was very briefly back in 1963 before Singapore became fully independent in 1965, making next year – 2025 – the 60th anniversary of the republic.  

4. Most Singaporeans speak excellent English

Singapore is an easy place for Western tourists to explore on their own because of the widespread use of English here. Fun fact: Singapore actually has four official languages: Mandarin, Bahasa Melayu and Tamil represent the three major ethnic groups found here (Chinese, Malay and Indian respectively), and English is the main language used in schools and for business, which also allows for conversation across ethnicities.

5. Natural disasters are unlikely in Singapore 

Singapore may not have scenic mountain ranges or awe-inspiring topography, but it’s also out of the path of any major tectonic movement. You are unlikely to face any major natural disasters – no earthquakes, volcanos, typhoons or sandstorms here.

In the worst case, there may be flash floods during particularly rainy periods or haze blanketing the island from forest fires around the region, but these are usually temporary and minor inconveniences.

6. Singapore is a safe and stable place to visit 

Singapore is also well-known for its generally stable political and business climate, often ranked as one of the least corrupt countries in the world. Strikes that can disrupt travel plans are practically nonexistent here.

The crime rate in Singapore is also relatively low with lots of surveillance and a police force that people trust in. As a single woman, I’ve never been too worried about wandering around Singapore on my own even at night, but do maintain some common sense for your own safety as one of our popular slogans here goes: low crime doesn’t mean no crime.

7. Carry both cash and credit cards

How many Singapore dollars you change before your trip largely depends on where you plan to go . Most major tourist attractions and shops in shopping malls will accept credit cards, and other cashless options like contactless payments and smart wallets are also common.

Those planning to take public transport in Singapore can use their credit cards on the public buses and MRT card readers for convenience, but purchasing a local EZ-Link card or transport pass may be more worthwhile depending on how much travel you plan to do. However, do carry some cash around with you as it remains the prevalent method of payment for most small businesses, eating at hawker center stalls, or taking a taxi. Try to break notes of larger denominations ($50/$100) into smaller ones ($2/$5/$10) when possible.

8. Prebook attractions to avoid waiting in line

There’s a joke that a Singaporean’s favorite pastime is to queue for things, but that’s not something you want to waste time on. If there is an option to prebook tickets online or make a reservation, just do it. This is key on busy weekends and peak vacation periods like the mid- and year-end school holidays.

An attraction’s official website is usually the best place to get tickets, but browse other booking platforms before you check out as these sites may offer special seasonal discounts or multi-bundle prices. Also check the Visit Singapore website as it sometimes runs incentive programs for tourists.

9. Tipping is not expected

Tipping is not expected in Singapore. If you’re eating out in a restaurant or cafe, there is usually a 10% service charge included in the bill. Some places may have a tip box but otherwise, additional tips are not mandatory or expected, though they are appreciated in the service line.

10. Understand the art of "chope-ing"

If you are eating at food centers or working at co-working spaces, particularly within the central business district, you may notice empty tables with strategically placed items like umbrellas, tissue packets or lanyards on the seats. This is a local practice to "chope" or reserve a seat while everyone is queuing up at the stalls. Most people honor this informal reservation system and will look elsewhere for available seats.

11. Yes, you can drink the tap water

There's no need to buy bottled water in Singapore. The tap water here is treated and perfectly safe to drink. You'll find that most attractions have water coolers where you can refill your reusable bottles while you're out and about during the day.

This article was first published Sep 22, 2023 and updated Mar 9, 2024.

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China’s travellers seen to head overseas more in 2024; S’pore expected to gain

SINGAPORE – China may have surpassed its growth target in 2023, but weaker-than-expected consumer sentiment has raised questions about whether Chinese travellers – and their tourist dollars – will make a return this year.

Domestic travel for the world’s second-largest economy has rebounded beyond pre-pandemic levels, with tourist destinations on the mainland experiencing a robust rebound of visitors over the past year.

But overseas travel – a more expensive form of tourism – has been slow to recover. In December, China’s international air passenger traffic reached a high point of just 63 per cent of the corresponding level in 2019. For the full year of 2023, international passenger traffic was just 39 per cent that of 2019.

The absence of Chinese tourists has been keenly felt in South-east Asia, where for many countries, China had once been their largest source of visitor arrivals.

Between January and November 2023, Singapore received just 37 per cent of the visitors who had come from mainland China in 2019. Tourism receipts from mainland Chinese visitors in the first half of 2023 were just 56 per cent of the corresponding figure in 2019.

Even as China’s economic data suggests that its consumers remain cautious about spending, analysts and survey data are forecasting the continued recovery of overseas travel by Chinese tourists in 2024, albeit to sub-2019 levels.

A notable exception to Chinese consumers’ wariness of spending lies in the services sector, particularly in travel and entertainment, said McKinsey senior partner Daniel Zipser in a report in November 2023 analysing China’s consumption trends.

“After years of restricted mobility (owing to pandemic-related restrictions), there’s renewed enthusiasm for travel and socialising in restaurants and bars,” he added, noting that the slow recovery of China’s international travel in 2023 was due mainly to visa restrictions and high flight prices.

He observed that Chinese consumers were increasingly shifting their expenditures from goods towards services, and predicted that this trend would continue into 2024. 

There is likely to be a 50 per cent rise in international travel by Chinese tourists this year, bringing outbound travel to 62 per cent of its pre-pandemic level, according to a forecast by Singapore-based digital marketing firm China Trading Desk.

The firm conducts quarterly surveys of Chinese residents on their outbound travel sentiment. Its survey for the fourth quarter of 2023, released in January, polled 11,000 respondents on their travel plans and preferences.

Over half of the respondents intended to spend more than 25,000 yuan (S$4,800) on overseas trips, excluding the cost of air tickets and accommodation.

The survey also found that the majority of respondents who went abroad in 2023 were first-time travellers outside of China’s shores.

Nearly 60 per cent of Chinese tourists in 2023 are female, while over half have bachelor’s degrees and live in a Tier 1 city – a reference to China’s most developed cities such as Beijing and Shanghai.

“There’s an intriguing rise in female travellers, highlighting a shift in the gender dynamics of Chinese foreign tourism. This development beckons marketers to tailor their strategies to engage this increasingly powerful consumer segment,” noted Mr Subramania Bhatt, China Trading Desk’s founder.

Singapore, for which mainland China was the largest source of visitor arrivals prior to the pandemic, stands to gain from the impending tourism recovery.

The Republic was the most popular travel destination among survey respondents, with 13.9 per cent of those polled picking it as one of their intended travel destinations. South Korea came in second, and Europe, third.

Separately, data from China’s biggest online travel agency Trip.com showed that Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia, which have announced visa-free arrangements for Chinese passport holders, are among the top destinations favoured by Chinese tourists for the upcoming Chinese New Year holiday.

In a written reply to a parliamentary question on Jan 9, Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong said that Singapore’s upcoming 30-day mutual visa exemption arrangement with China, expected to be implemented in early 2024, “will increase Singapore’s attractiveness as a tourist destination for Chinese visitors, and boost visitor arrivals and spending in Singapore across the retail, F&B (food and beverage) and related sectors in the tourism industry”.

Industry players here appear to be optimistic about a rebound in tourist numbers from China and beyond.

Marina Bay Sands, a popular destination among Chinese travellers, announced last week an additional investment of US$750 million (S$1 billion) to improve its luxury offerings.

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Follow our news, recent searches, singapore goalkeeper hassan sunny meets hundreds of newfound fans in china, advertisement.

The 40-year-old footballer received a warm welcome in Shanghai. 

Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny takes a picture with a Chinese fan in Shanghai on Jun 17, 2024.

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Tan Yew Guan

Ng Hong Siang

Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny, at the peak of his newfound fame in China , met hundreds of Chinese fans on Monday (Jun 17) during a trip to Shanghai.

Hassan was in China at the invitation of property giant Capitaland, which owns several commercial properties there.

Fans showed up in droves at Raffles City The Bund to show their appreciation for Hassan's performance against Thailand in a World Cup qualifier match , queuing up to take pictures with him.

"I hope he will get better, and eventually come play in China," said one of his many supporters. 

Despite Singapore being beaten 3-1, Hassan pulled off many point-blank saves that ensured that China went through to the next round at that Thais' expense, achieving overnight celebrity.

"It's amazing to see how much love and support I'm getting here," said Hassan, who will be in Shanghai until Tuesday.

At 40, Hassan is at an age most professional footballers would have already retired, but the Singapore keeper has other plans.

"I have a few more years to go, as of so now it's all about doing things to make sure I prolong my career, because I still have the interest and the love for the game," he said.

THE TOAST OF CHINA

After his goalkeeping display that indirectly helped China advance, Hassan began receiving messages of support. 

The next day, grateful Chinese fans in Singapore thronged Dapur Hassan , his family's food stall in Tampines, causing it to sell out early.

Fans in China who wanted to express their gratitude transferred money to the stall's Alipay account, after netizens circulated photos of its payment QR code online.

Hassan made a post written in Chinese on his Instagram account, thanking fans for the support, but he also implored them to stop transferring him money, due to scammers tampering with the QR code.

"I know it's not my money. I know that whatever came in, I will donate to charity," he said on Monday.

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on Sunday praised Hassan's "spirit of compassion and sharing". 

"Thank you Hassan Sunny for showing the way ... Hassan decided to contribute the donations, which were made to the hawker stall run by his wife Aidah Rahim and him, to charity," said the President in an Instagram post in which he also conveyed Hari Raya Haji greetings to all Muslims. 

The religious holiday, which falls on Monday, is a reminder of the value of sacrifice and sharing with friends and those in need, he added. 

Singapore footballer Hassan Sunny met hundreds of Chinese fans on the first day of his trip to China. The 40-year-old is there at the invitation of property giant CapitaLand. CNA’s Tan Yew Guan caught up with him in Shanghai.

Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny 'amazed' by Chinese fans but taking outpouring of support with a 'pinch of salt'

Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny's food stall sells out early thanks to Chinese football fans

Veteran Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny the toast of China after World Cup heroics

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China’s premier gets a red-carpet welcome as he begins visit in Malaysia

In this photo released by Malaysia’s Department of Information, China’s Premier Li Qiang arrives at Sepang International Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (Malaysia’s Department of Information via AP)

In this photo released by Malaysia’s Department of Information, China’s Premier Li Qiang waves as he arrives at Sepang International Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (Malaysia’s Department of Information via AP)

In this photo released by Malaysia’s Department of Information, China’s Premier Li Qiang, left, is greeted by Malaysia’s Minster of Transport, Anthony Loke, as he arrives at Sepang International Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (Malaysia’s Department of Information via AP)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang, left, and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese shake hands during a signing ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. Li and Albanese and senior ministers of both administrations met at Parliament House on Monday to discuss thorny issues, including lingering trade barriers, conflict between their militaries in international waters and China’s desire to invest in critical minerals. (Lukas Coch/Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese-born Australian journalist Cheng Lei, center, films a signing ceremony with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. Li says he has agreed with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to properly manage their nations’ differences as they emerge from a hostile era in which minister-to-minister contacts were banned and trade barriers cost Australian exporters up to $13 billion a year. (Lukas Coch/Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese-born Australian journalist Cheng Lei attends a signing ceremony with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. (Lukas Coch/Pool Photo via AP)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang speaks to the media during a signing ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. (Lukas Coch/Pool Photo via AP)

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addresses the media at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Albanese and senior ministers of both administrations met at Parliament House on Monday to discuss thorny issues, including lingering trade barriers, conflict between their militaries in international waters and China’s desire to invest in critical minerals. (Lukas Coch/Pool Photo via AP)

China’s Premier Li Qiang, center left, and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, center right, join China’s Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao, second left, and Minister for Trade Don Farrell at a signing ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. (Mick Tsikas/Pool Photo via AP)

Supporters of Chinese Premier Li Qiang wait for his motorcade to pass outside Government House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. Li says he has agreed with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to properly manage their nations’ differences as they emerge from a hostile era in which minister-to-minister contacts were banned and trade barriers cost Australian exporters up to $13 billion a year. (Mick Tsikas/Pool Photo via AP)

Australia’s Governor-General David Hurley drives with China’s Premier Li Qiang, left, to look for kangaroos at Government House in Canberra, Monday, June 17, 2024. Li says he has agreed with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to properly manage their nations’ differences as they emerge from a hostile era in which minister-to-minister contacts were banned and trade barriers cost Australian exporters up to $13 billion a year. (Mick Tsikas/Pool Photo via AP)

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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — China’s premier received a red-carpet welcome as he arrived Tuesday in Malaysia, the last leg of a regional tour, to celebrate a half-century of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Li Qiang is the first Chinese premier to visit Malaysia since 2015. He flew in on an Air China jet from Australia and was received by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and other officials, the national Bernama news agency said. He then inspected a guard of honor before being taken to his hotel.

During his three-day visit, Li will hold talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, meet Malaysia King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, attend a groundbreaking ceremony for a China-backed rail link project and a dinner to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Li, China’s second-most powerful leader after President Xi Jinping, last week became the first Chinese premier to visit New Zealand and then Australia in seven years. He ended his Australian tour earlier Tuesday in the west coast city of Perth, where he has focused on China’s investment in critical minerals, clean energy and business links.

Perth is the capital of Western Australia state, which provided 39% of the world’s iron ore last year. Iron ore is one of Australia’s most lucrative exports. Analysts say the commodity was spared the type of trade bans Beijing imposed on other Australian exports as bilateral relations soured three years ago because the steel-making ingredient was crucial to Chinese industrial growth.

While in Perth, Li inspected iron ore miner Fortescue’s clean energy research facility. Fortescue’s chairman Andrew Forrest said that Li was interested in the company’s plans to produce iron ore without carbon emissions and potentially “green iron.”

“I think China chose us because it’s not just the best technology to go green in Australia, it’s the best technology to go green in the world, and we’ve got real examples of it in trains, ship engines, trucks,” Forrest told The Associated Press before the visit.

The Perth facility is testing technology on hydrogen, ammonia and battery power for trains, ships, trucks and heavy mining equipment.

Li also visited Chinese-controlled Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia’s processing plant south of Perth to underscore China’s interest in investing in critical minerals. The plant produces battery-grade lithium hydroxide for electric vehicles.

Australia shares U.S. concerns over China’s global dominance in critical minerals and control over supply chains in the renewable energy sector.

Citing Australia’s national interests, Treasurer Jim Chalmers recently ordered five China-linked companies to divest their shares in the rare earth mining company Northern Minerals.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote in an opinion piece published in Perth’s main newspaper, The West Australian, on Tuesday that his government was acting to ensure foreign investment “continues to serve our national interests.”

“This includes reforming the foreign investment framework so that it’s more efficient, more transparent and more effective at managing risk,” Albanese wrote.

Forrest said that the national risk from Chinese investment in the critical minerals sector was overstated.

“Australia should be producing all the critical minerals in the world, because we’re a great mining country, so by all means let’s go in harder after critical minerals, but let’s not do it with panic because there is no reason for panic,” Forrest said.

Qiang and Albanese flew to Perth in separate planes late Monday after holding delegation meetings in the national capital, Canberra. Both leaders attended a roundtable of business leaders in Perth representing resource companies, including mining firms BHP and Rio Tinto.

Chinese premiers and Australian prime ministers met annually from 2013 until 2019, after which Beijing banned minister-to-minister contacts over the previous conservative government’s call for an independent investigation into the causes of and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Relations had already been strained by Australian legislation that banned covert foreign interference in Australian politics and the exclusion of Chinese-owned telecommunications company Huawei from rolling out the national 5G network because of security concerns.

Beijing initiated a reset in relations after Albanese’s center-left Labor Party was elected in 2022.

The annual meetings resumed when Albanese visited Beijing in November.

Albanese revealed that his office had complained to the Chinese Embassy about the behavior of two officials during a media event with the two leaders after Monday’s meeting.

Australia had “concerns” about two Chinese officials who stood in the way of cameras taking images of well-known Australian journalist Cheng Lei sitting with other reporters as the leaders spoke, Albanese said.

Cheng spent more than three years in detention in China for breaking an embargo with a broadcast on a state-run television network while she was based in Beijing. She was released last year after interventions by the Australian government and now works for Sky News Australia.

“There should be no impediments to Australian journalists going about their job, and we’ve made that clear to the Chinese Embassy,” Albanese said.

China-born Cheng told Sky News on Monday that the officials “went to great lengths to block me from the cameras and to flank me.”

“I’m only guessing that it’s to prevent me from saying something or doing something that they think would be a bad look. But that in itself was a bad look,” Cheng said. The embassy didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

Rod McGuirk reported from Melbourne, Australia.

Follow AP’s coverage of Asia-Pacific news at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific

China's premier gets a red-carpet welcome as he begins visit in Malaysia

Chinese Premier Li Qiang has received a red-carpet welcome in Malaysia on the last leg of a regional tour

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — China’s premier received a red-carpet welcome as he arrived Tuesday in Malaysia, the last leg of a regional tour, to celebrate a half-century of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Li Qiang is the first Chinese premier to visit Malaysia since 2015. He flew in on an Air China jet from Australia and was received by Transport Minister Anthony Loke and other officials, the national Bernama news agency said. He then inspected a guard of honor before being taken to his hotel.

During his three-day visit, Li will hold talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, meet Malaysia King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, attend a groundbreaking ceremony for a China-backed rail link project and a dinner to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

Li, China’s second-most powerful leader after President Xi Jinping, last week became the first Chinese premier to visit New Zealand and then Australia in seven years. He ended his Australian tour earlier Tuesday in the west coast city of Perth, where he has focused on China’s investment in critical minerals, clean energy and business links.

Perth is the capital of Western Australia state, which provided 39% of the world’s iron ore last year. Iron ore is one of Australia’s most lucrative exports. Analysts say the commodity was spared the type of trade bans Beijing imposed on other Australian exports as bilateral relations soured three years ago because the steel-making ingredient was crucial to Chinese industrial growth.

While in Perth, Li inspected iron ore miner Fortescue’s clean energy research facility. Fortescue’s chairman Andrew Forrest said that Li was interested in the company’s plans to produce iron ore without carbon emissions and potentially “green iron.”

“I think China chose us because it’s not just the best technology to go green in Australia, it’s the best technology to go green in the world, and we’ve got real examples of it in trains, ship engines, trucks,” Forrest told The Associated Press before the visit.

The Perth facility is testing technology on hydrogen, ammonia and battery power for trains, ships, trucks and heavy mining equipment.

Li also visited Chinese-controlled Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia’s processing plant south of Perth to underscore China’s interest in investing in critical minerals. The plant produces battery-grade lithium hydroxide for electric vehicles.

Australia shares U.S. concerns over China’s global dominance in critical minerals and control over supply chains in the renewable energy sector.

Citing Australia’s national interests, Treasurer Jim Chalmers recently ordered five China-linked companies to divest their shares in the rare earth mining company Northern Minerals.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote in an opinion piece published in Perth’s main newspaper, The West Australian, on Tuesday that his government was acting to ensure foreign investment “continues to serve our national interests.”

“This includes reforming the foreign investment framework so that it’s more efficient, more transparent and more effective at managing risk,” Albanese wrote.

Forrest said that the national risk from Chinese investment in the critical minerals sector was overstated.

“Australia should be producing all the critical minerals in the world, because we’re a great mining country, so by all means let’s go in harder after critical minerals, but let’s not do it with panic because there is no reason for panic,” Forrest said.

Qiang and Albanese flew to Perth in separate planes late Monday after holding delegation meetings in the national capital, Canberra. Both leaders attended a roundtable of business leaders in Perth representing resource companies, including mining firms BHP and Rio Tinto.

Chinese premiers and Australian prime ministers met annually from 2013 until 2019, after which Beijing banned minister-to-minister contacts over the previous conservative government’s call for an independent investigation into the causes of and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Relations had already been strained by Australian legislation that banned covert foreign interference in Australian politics and the exclusion of Chinese-owned telecommunications company Huawei from rolling out the national 5G network because of security concerns.

Beijing initiated a reset in relations after Albanese’s center-left Labor Party was elected in 2022.

The annual meetings resumed when Albanese visited Beijing in November.

Albanese revealed that his office had complained to the Chinese Embassy about the behavior of two officials during a media event with the two leaders after Monday’s meeting.

Australia had “concerns” about two Chinese officials who stood in the way of cameras taking images of well-known Australian journalist Cheng Lei sitting with other reporters as the leaders spoke, Albanese said.

Cheng spent more than three years in detention in China for breaking an embargo with a broadcast on a state-run television network while she was based in Beijing. She was released last year after interventions by the Australian government and now works for Sky News Australia.

“There should be no impediments to Australian journalists going about their job, and we’ve made that clear to the Chinese Embassy,” Albanese said.

China-born Cheng told Sky News on Monday that the officials “went to great lengths to block me from the cameras and to flank me.”

“I’m only guessing that it’s to prevent me from saying something or doing something that they think would be a bad look. But that in itself was a bad look,” Cheng said. The embassy didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

Rod McGuirk reported from Melbourne, Australia.

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