There are lots of steps to follow to get to Singapore via the VTL / Vaccinated Travel Lane.

I just returned from a glorious week in Singapore. Getting there, however, was so complicated I almost gave up, a few times! In order to save you from angst and drama and confusion, this post has some essential information you’ll need before your trip. I’ve made a video walkthrough as well, so take your pick as to how to get your information.

1. Bookmark this website

The  most thorough (and slightly overwhelming) checklist of everything you need to know is on this website. Bookmark it to refer back easily.

2. Get a VTL flight

If you don’t get a VTL flight, all your other efforts are in vain. You will be denied entry into Singapore if you’re on the wrong flight. Use the website above to help you determine which flights are VTL, or, work through a travel agent.

3. Apply for a VTP (Vaccinated Travel Pass)

This is a request to enter the country via the VTL lane. You’ll have to input the accommodation you’re staying in, and make sure it’s set up to welcome VTL passengers, specifically. The dropdown list in the VTP application shows you all the approved hotels.

4. Fill out an SG Arrival Card

This one is tricky. If you Google “SG Arrival Card” you’ll be taken to a website asking you to pay around $99 Singapore dollars. Instead, use the website above, and click the link on their page. It will look like a SPAM link because you’ll be redirected. However, it’s valid, and it’s free. It can only be filled out within 3 days of your departure date.

5. Ensure your vaccination proof is handy and has a QR code

You’ll need to upload proof of vaccination and it has to be a QR code. The vaccination must also have been administered in a country on the VTL list. So, let’s say you’re coming from the United States, which is one of the allowed countries, but you were vaccinated in Mexico, which is not on the VTL list. Even if you got a WHO approved vaccination, you won’t qualify. Both the vaccination location, and your country of departure have to be on the VTL list. Make sure to print ALL required documentation and keep it in your carry-on bag your entire trip.

6. Get A Negative PCR Test

No surprise, you have to get a negative Covid test to travel. Have it printed, and refer to the website above for how many days in advance to get it. Rules change regularly.

7. Get Tested At Changi Airport On Arrival, Then Isolate Till You Get The Results

As soon as you arrive at the airport, you’ll collect your bags, and go to a testing center. Make sure your contact details are correct, that’s what the first person you meet with will verify. You can ask for a phone number or email address to contact should you not receive your results. Go into the testing area, then go to your hotel. You’ll have to isolate in your room, using Uber Eats or equivalent for meals. Your hotel will not allow you to leave your room until you have your test results. If you come in on the night flight, expect at least a 12-hour wait. Your hotel should be able to help you contact someone if it’s longer than 12 hours and you haven’t heard anything. Once you get your results, inform your hotel so you can leave and explore Singapore.

8. Arrange Your ART Tests

You’ll receive an email outlining how many tests you need to get, and which days to get them. You’ll also get a link to book your appointments. Ask your hotel to help you figure out which location is closest. Book a convenient time, or, if you can’t find a time you like, book any time, and show up at the time you like. It seemed that the booking is showing your intention to follow the rules, but you can actually show up any time the testing center is open. Note that “day 1” counts as your day of arrival, even if it’s at night.

9. Download and Use the Trace Together App

This is the app you’ll use to check in and out of locations, and which will show your vaccination status. It’s required in Singapore, and you won’t be admitted to many places without it. You should download the app before you travel, take the first steps to set it up, and then wait until your arrival in Singapore to activate it. Note that you must check out of places you check in to via scan of a barcode. If you’re able to check in by waving your phone over a check-in box (typically a rectangle with a protruding white ball, or, an iPhone on a security desk) you won’t need to check out.

10. Helpful Websites 

Checklist and VTL Process – https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/vtl/travel-checklist

VTP Application – https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/STO1/VTL

SG Arrival Card – https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/

Pre-book On Arrival PCR test – https://safetravel.changiairport.com/arrivalswabtest/#/

Book your ART Tests – https://go.gov.sg/traveller-art-test

Trace Together App – https://www.tracetogether.gov.sg/