Singapore’s famous comfort isn’t an accident. It’s by design. From our country’s earliest days, our leaders knew that for a tiny island nation with no natural resources to survive, stability and social order were everything. That intense focus on creating a secure society is the primary reason you can now enjoy a city that is incredibly safe and easy to navigate.
But there’s a deeper reason for our rules that is much more personal to us. Imagine a city where four official languages are spoken, and vibrant Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian cultures mix every single day. Our strict laws and social etiquette act as a shared language of respect, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and that our society runs harmoniously.
So while you may have heard about our strict reputation, I want you to see it from a local’s perspective. These aren’t just limitations; they are the bedrock of the seamless and relaxing vacation you came here to enjoy.
However, to have that perfect trip, you need to know about the unspoken rules and surprising quirks most tourists miss. From public transport etiquette to the surprising truth about tipping, this guide has you covered.
Are you ready to learn the insider “cheat codes” for a flawless trip? Let’s get started.
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1. Know Your Customs & Duty-Free Allowances
This is crucial information for a smooth arrival at Singapore Changi Airport. Being unaware of our specific customs rules can lead to fines and having your items confiscated before your vacation even truly begins. To ensure a comfortable start to your trip, here’s what you need to know.
The Rule on Tobacco: Zero Allowance
This is the most important and surprising rule for many visitors. Unlike most countries, Singapore has no duty-free allowance for cigarettes or any other tobacco products. Every single cigarette must be declared at the Red Channel, where you will have to pay the required duties. It is a serious offense to be caught with undeclared tobacco at the Green Channel.
Duty-Free Alcohol Allowance
You can bring in a limited amount of alcohol duty-free, but only if you meet these conditions: you are arriving from a country other than Malaysia, you have been away from Singapore for at least 48 hours, and the alcohol is for your personal consumption.
The standard allowance is a total of 2 litres. Common combinations are:
- 1 litre of spirits (e.g., whisky, gin, vodka) + 1 litre of wine
- 1 litre of spirits + 1 litre of beer
- 2 litres of wine
GST Relief for New Items (The “Shopping Rule”)
Singapore has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 9%. This tax applies to new goods that you purchase overseas and bring into Singapore. It does not apply to your personal belongings that you already owned before your trip.
To allow for small purchases, you are given a “GST relief” allowance.
- If you have been away from Singapore for 48 hours or more, your relief is for new goods up to SGD$500.
- If you have been away for less than 48 hours, your relief is for new goods up to SGD$100.
Let’s look at two scenarios to make this crystal clear.
Scenario A: The New Purchase
Imagine you fly from your home country to Paris, and there you buy a brand new designer handbag for SGD$2,500. You then fly to Singapore for the next leg of your trip.
The Rule: Because you are importing a new item that is worth more than your SGD$500 GST relief allowance, you must declare this bag at the Red Channel upon arrival in Singapore and pay 9% GST on its value.
Scenario B: The Pre-Owned Personal Item
Now, imagine you own an SGD$2,500 handbag that you bought in your home country last year. You pack this bag as part of your personal luggage for your trip to Singapore.
The Rule: In this case, the handbag is considered your “personal belonging,” not a new item you are importing. Therefore, you do not need to declare it or pay GST. It is treated the same as your used watch, your laptop, or the clothes you packed for your trip.
A Local’s Pro Tip: If you frequently travel with several high-value items, it can be helpful to have photos or receipts on your phone showing they were purchased long before your current trip. This is rarely needed, but it’s a simple way to clear up any potential confusion instantly.
2. Clearing Your Table: A Guide for Every Eatery
In Singapore, keeping our shared dining spaces clean is a matter of social responsibility and, in some cases, the law. The rules change depending on where you eat, so this guide will explain what to do in every situation.
Hawker Centres, Food Courts & Kopitiams: It’s the Law
This is where the rules are strictest and legally enforced by the authorities. This applies to all public dining places with shared tables.
Where this applies
- Hawker Centres
- Food Courts (in malls)
- Local “Kopitiams” or Coffeeshops
What You Must Do
- Place all your used plates, bowls, cutlery, and leftover scraps onto your tray.
- Carry the entire tray to a designated tray-return station.
Watch For: Halal vs. Non-Halal Stations
To respect our Muslim community, there are separate return stations for Halal food. Halal stalls typically use green-coloured trays and plates. If you used green crockery, please return it to the designated Halal station.
The Penalty: A government officer can issue you a written warning for a first offense. A second offense results in a SGD$300 fine.
Fast-Food Chains & Self-Service Cafes
This category includes places like McDonald’s, KFC, Starbucks, Ya Kun Kaya Toast, and Toast Box.
The Golden Rule: How Did You Order?
Here’s the simplest way to know what to do: Did you order and pay at a counter before you sat down?
If the answer is yes, then you are expected to clear your own table.
While a government officer won’t fine you here, clearing your tray is a very strong social rule and company policy. It has been the expected etiquette in these places for decades. To dine like a local and be a considerate guest, please bring your tray to the return point.
Full-Service Restaurants & Cafes
This is any place where a waiter takes your order at your table and brings you a bill at the end.
What You Must Do
- Relax and leave everything on the table. The staff will clear your plates for you as it is part of the service.
Convenience Stores (like 7-Eleven)
If you use their small seating areas, the social expectation is clear: please throw your empty bottles and food wrappers into the provided bins before you leave.
3. Dos and Don’ts of Using Wi-Fi
In today’s connected world, seeking out free Wi-Fi is second nature. However, in Singapore, one common habit could get you into serious trouble. This is a strict rule that every visitor needs to know.
The Law: What is Actually Illegal?
Connecting to any private Wi-Fi network without the owner’s explicit permission is considered a crime under the Computer Misuse Act.
Yes, you read that right. The law views it as a form of hacking.
Scenario: The Illegal Connection
Imagine you are walking down the street and your phone shows an unlocked Wi-Fi network with a name like “LINKSYS,” “HomeNetwork,” or “Sarah’s iPhone.” You connect to it because it has no password.
This is an illegal act. You are accessing a private network without permission. While it’s unlikely the police are hunting for tourists, it’s still a risk you should never take.
So, How Do I Get Online Safely and Legally?
The rule is simple: You are safe if you have been given permission to connect. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- In a Cafe, Restaurant, or Hotel: If they provide you with a password on the menu, on a slip of paper, or you ask the staff for it, you have permission. This is perfectly legal.
- At the Airport, Malls, and Public Areas: Look for the official public network called Wireless@SGx. This is a free, secure, government-supported network. You may need to register once with your foreign mobile number, but it is designed for public use.
The Hidden Danger: Fake “Honeypot” Networks
There’s another reason to be cautious. Criminals sometimes set up fake, unsecured Wi-Fi networks with tempting names like “Free_Mall_Wifi” in public areas. These are traps designed to steal your passwords and credit card information the moment you connect.
Your Best and Safest Options:
For a truly worry-free trip, the best ways to stay connected are:
- Buy a Tourist SIM Card: You can get a physical SIM card right at the airport or at any convenience store. This is a reliable and easy option.
- Use an eSIM: If your phone supports it, you can buy and activate a Singapore data plan online, often before you even travel. This is incredibly convenient as you can get connected the moment you land.
- Rent a Portable Wi-Fi Router: This is a great choice for families or groups, as one device can provide a secure Wi-Fi hotspot for multiple phones and laptops. You can book one online and pick it up at the airport.
- Connect to Official Public Wi-Fi: Stick to the official Wireless@SGx network when you are out and about in malls or at public attractions.
4. Trash, Littering, and Spitting
You’ve likely heard that Singapore is incredibly clean. This is because we take our identity as a “Clean & Green City” very seriously, and the rules about littering are the foundation for that national pride.
The definition of a littering offense here is very broad and covers two key situations that can surprise visitors.
Active Littering (The Small Stuff)
This is what you’d typically expect. It includes flicking a cigarette butt, dropping a used bus ticket, or letting a candy wrapper fall to the ground. No piece of trash is considered too small.
Improper Disposal (Leaving Things Behind)
This is the one that catches many well-intentioned visitors. If a public bin is full, leaving your trash bag or drink can next to it is still considered a littering offense. The law requires you to dispose of your trash inside a proper receptacle.
The same principle applies to leaving “natural” waste behind, such as pistachio or peanut shells under a park bench. The rule is to leave no trace.
The Rule on Spitting
This one is simple and absolute: just don’t. This includes spitting on the pavement, into a drain, or onto the grass. It’s a strict rule purely for public health.
Consequences and Advice
An officer can give you a SGD$300 fine on the spot for a first offense. Repeat offenders face higher fines and can even be sentenced to a “Corrective Work Order” (CWO), requiring them to clean a public place while wearing a bright, unmissable vest.
A Local’s Advice for a Comfortable Trip
Honestly, this is an easy rule to follow. You’ll find public bins conveniently placed almost everywhere. If you happen to find one that’s full, please hold on to your trash until you find the next one—it’s usually not far away.
This simple act of shared responsibility is what keeps our city clean and pleasant for everyone, including you.
5. Jaywalking is an Offense
Singapore’s streets may appear to be a haven to many tourists; however, jaywalking is an offense.
Jaywalking occurs when a pedestrian crosses a road other than a designated crossing or within 50m of one.
Tourists should, therefore, obey the rules of the road, even if they see someone else around them breaking the law.
Pedestrians who flout the rules can be fined up to SGD$1000 or jailed for up to three months or both.
The penalties are harsher if you jaywalk more than once.
6. Feeding of Pigeons is Prohibited
Pigeons are commonly known to cause hygiene problems in Singapore neighborhoods. The droppings of pigeons can damage buildings and cars.
You might not think twice before giving them some crumbs from that piece of bread. Don’t share any of your food with the local pigeons in Singapore is a good idea.
If you’re caught feeding pigeons, you may be fined up to SGD$500. So, avoid feeding these birds if you don’t want to get into trouble with the law.
7. Noise Regulations in Singapore
As a tourist visiting Singapore, it’s important to know the local noise regulations to ensure a respectful and enjoyable stay.
Be mindful that excessive noise that disrupts peace in residential areas can result in fines, as per the Public Order and Nuisance Act. This includes everything from loud music to rowdy late-night conversations.
Also, when visiting restaurants, pubs, or entertainment venues, you might notice they adhere to specific noise management guidelines under the Code of Practice on Environmental Health.
This can mean quieter music volumes after certain hours. Remember, a key part of travel is respecting local customs and laws.
8. Vandalism and Graffiti
Any vandalism and public mischief are taken very seriously here, resulting in a fine or jail time.
If you’re caught damaging public property, you could be fined up to SGD$2,000 or may face a jail sentence of up to three years.
And if that’s not enough to deter you, know that the punishment for graffiti is caning.
Often you can see street art along with many places, such as Chinatown, Haji Lane, and Little India.
However, any form of street art without permission from the relevant authority in Singapore is considered graffiti vandalism.
The following case, which occurred in Singapore, garnered significant attention as the entire affair sparked considerable controversy.
Michael P. Fay, a 19-year-old American citizen, was convicted of vandalism in Singapore after spray-painting cars as a prank. He pleaded guilty to two counts of vandalism and received a sentence of six strokes of the cane and prison time. Following a clemency appeal from U.S. President Bill Clinton, Fay’s sentence was partially reduced, and he was released early after serving two months and 21 days in prison for good behavior.
In another case, two Germans were sentenced to nine months in prison and three strokes of the cane by a Singapore court for breaking into a depot and defacing railway carriages with graffiti.
9. Smoking in Public, E-Cigarettes, and Shisha
Forbidden to smoke in public, this includes all indoor and outdoor areas, except for a few designated smoking zones.
Smoking is also not allowed within five meters of bus shelters, covered walkways, or building entrances and exits.
If caught smoking in a non-designated area, you may be fined up to SGD$1,000.
If you are caught more than once, you may be fined up to SGD$2,000 and/or jailed for up to three months.
Littering in Singapore is illegal, including throwing cigarette butts on the ground or leaving your empty cigarette pack behind when you leave a place.
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and shisha are prohibited in Singapore, even in private homes. If caught using either of these products, you may be fined up to SGD$2,000.
10. Alcohol Consumption and Partying between 10:30 pm and 7 am
Drinking in public places is banned between 10.30 pm and 7 am, and retail shops or supermarkets are not allowed to sell alcohol during this period.
Anyone caught drinking may face a fine of up to SGD$1,000 or three months in jail.
You can only consume alcohol at food and beverage (F&B) outlets or nightlife business establishments that have licenses and are permitted to sell alcohol.
Depending on their license, these places can operate until late night/early morning.
Purchasing and consuming alcohol are prohibited for Individuals under the age of 18.
It is also illegal in Singapore to drink and drive a vehicle; if caught drunk driving, you may face a hefty fine of SGD$5,000, jail time of up to 12 months, or both.
Offenders who are caught multiple times may have their driving licenses suspended or revoked.
11. Busking and Public Annoyance of Any Instrument or Singing
Busking without a permit is not allowed in the country to control the noise level on its streets and prevent public disturbance.
If you’re caught playing an instrument or singing in public, creating a nuisance to others, you may face up to three months in prison, a fine, or even both.
Think again if you plan to bring your guitar and play it at the park for leisure.
You can apply for a public performance license online if you wish to play music in public places like Orchard Road, Sentosa, and other locations.
You can visit the National Arts Council website for more information regarding the application.
12. Flying Kites May Interfere with Public Traffic
Kites may be dangerous to aircraft during take-off, landing, and being ingested by engines. Kites can also be hazardous if they land on the windscreen and block the view of the vehicles.
There was an incident where a driver lost control of his car after a falling kite hit his windscreen. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured in the accident.
You can get a hefty fine of up to SGD$5,000 if you fly a kite that endangers people’s or property’s safety.
You can visit the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) website to find information on where you can fly a kite without affecting the air traffic.
13. Register Before Flying a Drone above 250 grams
Drone flying is a popular activity among hobbyists and professionals alike.
In 2015, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) released guidelines on the use of drones, stating that anyone flying a drone for “recreational purposes” would need to obtain a license from the CAAS.
The process of obtaining a license is not complicated. Still, it is essential to follow the guidelines set forth by the CAAS.
Anyone who flies a drone without a license can be imprisoned for up to two years and get stiff fines of up to SGD$50,000, while more severe penalties apply to repeat offenders.
A Singaporean man was fined SGD$51,000 for flying a drone illegally. He was flying his drone on a flight path at Tengah, Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) military airbase, forcing two inbound RSAF aircraft to reroute.
Thaeroscope’s detection of the drone, spotted at Tengah Air Base, prompted the RSAF to shut down the damaged runway for half an hour.
So if you plan to fly a drone in the country, make sure you are familiar with the regulations set forth by the CAAS. Failure to do so could result in severe penalties.
To register, a tourist must create a UAPass Account on the CAAS online portal. More information can be found on the CAAS website.
You are advised to create a UAPass Account before your trip, as it will take five working days for the account to be approved.
14. The Rules for Food & Drinks on Public Transport
This is one of the most common ways tourists accidentally break a rule in Singapore. Keeping our transport network spotlessly clean is a point of pride, and the rules around food and drinks are strictly enforced to maintain it.
Here’s everything you need to know to travel like a local.
The Main Rule: No Eating or Drinking. Period.
After walking in the tropical heat, it feels instinctive to take a sip of water the moment you enter an air-conditioned MRT train. Please resist the urge.
The rule is simple: no consuming food or drinks of any kind once you are past the fare gates at any MRT station or once you have boarded a public bus.
- Does this include plain water? Yes.
- What about a quick coffee or bubble tea? No.
- A small snack for my child? Not on the train or bus.
This rule exists to prevent spills, which can make floors slippery and dangerous, and to keep the trains and buses free from pests and unpleasant odours. You’ll see clear “No Eating or Drinking” signs everywhere. While you might get a friendly warning first, the official fine can be up to S$500.
Carrying Food vs. Eating Food
Now for the important clarification. Does this mean you can’t bring food with you on the train?
No, of course you can. Buying takeaway food (we call it “dabao”) is a huge part of our culture. It is perfectly fine to carry sealed food and drinks with you on public transport.
- Scenario 1: You’ve just bought a delicious takeaway meal of chicken rice and a sealed cup of iced tea. You can carry the plastic bag with you on the MRT to take back to your hotel. This is completely acceptable.
- Scenario 2: You open the styrofoam box on the train to smell your food or sneak a quick bite. This is when you are breaking the rule. The food must remain sealed and uneaten.
The Big Exception: The “King of Fruits”
There is one major exception to the “carrying is okay” rule: the Durian.
If you’ve never encountered it, the durian is a spiky, custard-like fruit famous throughout Southeast Asia for its incredibly strong and pungent aroma. People either love it or hate it, but everyone agrees the smell is powerful and lingers for a very long time.
Because of this, durians are completely banned from all public transport, even if they are sealed in a bag. The smell can easily permeate the entire carriage and make the journey unpleasant for other passengers. You will see specific “No Durians” signs right next to the “No Eating or Drinking” signs.
So, feel free to carry your sealed shopping and takeaway meals, but save the durian feast for a location you can walk to.
15. The “Airbnb” Rule: Short-Term Rentals, Homestays, and Friends
For a comfortable and local experience, booking a private apartment on a platform like Airbnb or VRBO can seem like a great idea. However, in Singapore, you must be extremely cautious as our laws on this are very strict and can be confusing.
The Law Explained
In Singapore, the government makes a clear distinction between private property and public housing (HDB flats), where over 80% of locals live.
- For private apartments and condos, the minimum rental period is three consecutive months.
- For HDB public housing flats, the rules are even stricter. The minimum rental period is six consecutive months.
This means that the vast majority of short-term vacation listings you see on these rental platforms, especially those for a few days or weeks, are not operating legally.
What About Listings Called a “Homestay”?
You will see many listings on rental sites described as a “homestay.” It is very important to understand that this name does not change the law. If a host is charging you money to rent a room in their home for less than the legal minimums (3 months for private, 6 for HDB), it is still considered an illegal short-term rental.
The Real Risks for You, the Tourist
While the severe legal penalties are for the homeowner, your dream vacation can be severely impacted. You will not be arrested or fined, but you face very real problems:
- The Awkward Lie: Your host might ask you, “If anyone from security asks, just say you are my friend visiting.” This is a major red flag that the rental is illegal and puts you in a dishonest position.
- The Lockout: You could return from sightseeing to find your key card deactivated by building management, leaving you stranded with your luggage locked inside.
- The Last-Minute Cancellation: Many travelers have had their bookings canceled with no warning because the authorities started an investigation, leaving them scrambling for an expensive last-minute hotel.
The Big Exception: Staying with Friends or Family
So, what if you are genuinely staying with a friend who lives in Singapore?
This is perfectly legal and a wonderful way to experience the city! The law only applies to commercial transactions where money is being paid for accommodation.
If you are staying in your friend’s spare room as their guest and no rental is being charged, you are not breaking any laws. This is simply having a friend stay over, which is a normal, everyday activity that the rules are not designed to prevent.
The Guaranteed Solution for a Comfortable Trip
To guarantee a secure, legal, and stress-free stay, it is highly recommended that you book your paid accommodation at a licensed hotel, serviced apartment, or licensed hostel. This ensures your booking is completely legitimate and that you have a comfortable, worry-free place to rest your head at night.
16. Any form of Firecracker is Not Allowed
The sound of firecrackers is a staple for many festivals and celebrations. Still, due to the 1972 Dangerous Fireworks Act, it has been illegal in Singapore since then.
You might be wondering why fireworks are not allowed in Singapore, and it is due to the high-rise buildings and the many trees and plants around.
The fire risk is simply too significant, and with such a densely populated city, it is best to err on the side of caution.
If you’re looking into catching some fireworks during your trip, visit National Day on the 9th of August or during the Formula 1 race, as plenty will go down.
17. No pornography of any kind
When you come to Singapore, ensure you are free of any pornography, whether downloaded on your computer or in physical form for personal use. For example, you could get fined or imprisoned for importing pornography.
Streaming porn in the country is not an offense. However, the Info-communications Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA) has banned approximately 100 porn websites to prevent young children and youth from accessing these websites.
Nonetheless, government censorship does not restrict one’s access to internet material beyond these sites.
18. Chewing Gum Ban
There is a law in Singapore that prohibits the import and sale of chewing gum.
You may be wondering why to ban such a small and seemingly innocuous thing as chewing gum in Singapore.
This ban is a result of Singapore’s littering problem, which was exacerbated by the widespread use of chewing gum in the early 1990s.
Chewers spit their gum out on the sidewalks, causing a sticky and unsightly mess.
Since chewing gum is non-biodegradable, removing it from pavements and other public areas can be a real pain.
The Singapore government has spent a significant amount of money cleaning up chewing gum, which has also caused problems with the operation of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT).
It’s best to play it safe and avoid chewing gum altogether in the city.
19. Cannabis is Considered Illegal
In many countries, cannabis may be decriminalized, but it is still illegal in Singapore.
Singapore’s government has an unwavering zero-tolerance policy for anything related to cannabis, which will result in harsh penalties like prison time if caught by law enforcement there.
The punishment for cannabis possession can be jail and caning, and the penalty for cultivating and distributing cannabis in the country is the death penalty.
According to the Central Narcotics Bureau, it’s a class A drug listed under the Misuse Of Drugs Act – meaning 10 years behind bars or fined SGD$20,000 if caught with any amount over 200 grams.
If your crime involved importing/exporting more than 1kg, there would be no hesitation before receiving capital punishment.
20. Drug-Related Activities are Serious Offences
The country does not tolerate drug offenses, and it will come down hard on anyone caught with drugs.
You will be arrested and jailed if caught in possession of illegal drugs in Singapore. There is no leniency given to both Singaporeans and foreigners.
The punishment for those caught in smuggling and drug trafficking is even harsher – a mandatory death sentence.
The Singapore officials from the relevant authority also have the right to conduct anonymous and random drug tests on anyone without a warrant.
Suppose you’re caught with drugs in your system when you arrive in Singapore. In that case, you can be sent off if it’s prior approval from an immigration officer.
21. Public Nudity or Walking Naked in your House
Nudity in both public spaces and private properties can get you into trouble with the law. While it’s “technically” legal to be nude in your own home, you can be charged if visible to others.
If you’re caught without your towel after taking a shower or if there are no window blinds closed before entering bedtime attire, then be prepared for the consequences.
In Singapore, there are cases of people being arrested or fined for walking around the house naked. So if you’re planning on letting it all hang out, make sure you do so in the privacy of your own home.
Bottom line – don’t go around the house naked. If you want to be nude, ensure you’re not visible to others.
22. Any Racism and Discrimination are Not Tolerated
Singapore has a long history as a country open to different cultures and religions.
To maintain peace and harmony among its citizens, Singapore officials have put in place strict laws that prohibit any type of racism or discrimination. This allows Singapore to be a welcoming place for all travelers.
Singapore has managed to create harmony among the major races in this country. Any activity that disrupts this, like racial slurs or religious conflicts, carries severe punishments.
Certain laws deal with any act intended to disrupt racial harmony in society. Talking publicly about sensitive issues like race and religion requires approval from the Ministry of Manpower.
If you’re planning on visiting Singapore, it’s essential to be aware of these laws and respect cultural differences. You can have a great time in this fine city with some preparation.
23. Urinating in Public Areas & Not Flushing the Public Toilet
You will be fined if caught urinating in public places such as Orchard Road or Clarke Quay. The maximum fine is SGD$1000.
You could get a fine if you do not flush the public toilets after use. The maximum fine for this offense is SGD$500. There is also a fine if you do not flush the public toilet after use.
Not flushing the toilet can be an act that breaches both propriety and law in Singapore. If caught not flushing the public toilets, you could be fined SGD$150.
So, if you have to go and there are no public toilets around, remember to hold them in. Or go to the toilet every time there is one before you actually need to visit. And please, remember to always flush the toilet after use.
24. Traveling from Malaysia
If you plan to travel from Malaysia, check what to bring with you, as customs laws can be pretty strict.
There are foods you buy in Malaysia that you are not allowed to bring into Singapore. For example, Malaysia’s poultry and eggs purchased for personal use are not permitted in Singapore due to the Avian Flu.
Do not import pirated VCDs, DVDs, Videos, and other items prohibited under Singapore law.
Cigarettes are also prohibited, and smuggling them carries a maximum penalty of three years in jail for a first-time offender.
