ICA Warns of Heavy Traffic in SG-JB Checkpoints Between 28 March to 14 April

With the fast-approaching and converging public holidays, people may take advantage of the breaks from work to go on a quick getaway across the Strait with their friends or visit their family.

This year, Good Friday falls on 29 March, Qing Ming on 4 April and Hari Raya Puasa on 10 April 2024 in Singapore.

As a result, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) anticipates significant congestion at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from Thursday, 28 March, to Sunday, April 14, 2024.

Advice for Smooth Travels

In order to ensure a smooth journey to Malaysia, ICA recommends all travellers to anticipate longer waiting periods, adhere to traffic regulations, stay in designated lanes, and cooperate with checkpoint officers.

ICA also advises travellers to ensure that their passports have a validity of at least six months. Additionally, travellers are cautioned against carrying prohibited or controlled items into Singapore.

Singapore Permanent Residents should transfer their Re-Entry Permit to the new passport, while Long-Term Pass holders should update ICA or MOM with any passport changes before re-entering Singapore.

Drivers are advised to check traffic conditions before starting their journey and not to cut queues, as it leads to severe congestion and risks to safety. Offenders will be turned away and required to re-queue.

ICA also asks motorists to consider using QR codes instead of passports for faster immigration clearance.

This initiative, which commenced on 19 March, enables travellers to undergo immigration clearance without the necessity of presenting their passports.

Utilising QR codes, individuals or groups of up to 10 passengers in a single vehicle can be processed. To participate, travellers must download the MyICA mobile application and input their passport information beforehand.

For more information on how to do so, you can check out our video here!

Drivers of foreign vehicles are reminded to ensure the validity of their Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) before travelling to Singapore to avoid any inconvenience at the checkpoints.

Additionally, they are advised to settle any outstanding fines with the relevant government agencies in order to prevent denial of entry into the country.

Rising Traveller Volume and Record Crossings

Since the reopening of borders, traveller numbers at land checkpoints have soared, even surpassing pre-Covid levels.

During the recent March school holidays, which took place on 8 to 18 March 2024, over 5.1 million travellers crossed Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints.

15 March saw a peak of nearly half a million travellers, causing up to a three-hour wait for car travellers due to traffic tailbacks from Malaysia.

To stay informed and prepared, drivers should refer to the list of prohibited items on the ICA website, monitor traffic conditions through the Land Transport Authority (LTA) One Motoring website, and follow updates on ICA’s social media accounts, including Facebook and X.

Local radio stations also provide valuable traffic advisories. For inquiries about offences or fine payments, drivers can contact various agencies such as the Singapore Police Force (Traffic Police), Housing and Development Board, Land Transport Authority, National Environment Agency, and Urban Redevelopment Authority.

Adhering to these reminders and utilising available resources will contribute to a smooth and hassle-free journey through the checkpoints, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. Enjoy the holidays!