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(Last updated: 19 Aug 2008)
Visas
A visa is not required for Australian citizens for a stay of up to 30 days. All visitors are required to have a valid passport and onward ticket.
The Immigrations and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) is the governing body for issuing social visit passes. ICA has a online visitor service centre where all their services can be found.
Expatriates planning to work in Singapore require work visas from the Ministry of Manpower, which is the governing body. Employer sponsorship and appropriate qualifications are also necessary.
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The climate in Singapore is tropical with short rainstorms occurring frequently. The average daily temperature is around 26°C. The temperature becomes slightly cooler during the evenings.
For weather details in Singapore, please visit the World Meteorological Organization. |
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Changi Airport is six kilometres from the city centre. The Changi Airport MRT Extension (rail service) also allows commuters to take the MRT to the Changi International Airport and vice versa. There is a regular public bus service that leaves the airport to the CBD. |
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The public transport infrastructure in Singapore is excellent with many taxis, an expanding train system and wide coverage of bus services.
Taxi travel in Singapore is relatively cheap and efficient. Different taxi companies charge different rates, but the difference is marginal. Depending on the time of day, a trip to the Central Business District (CBD) could cost between S$16 to S$20 from the airport.
The major taxi companies in Singapore are: Comfort Transportation Pte Ltd, CityCab Pte Ltd, TIBS Taxis Pte Ltd and Yellow-Top Cab Pte Ltd.
There are three major bus services: SBS Transit Ltd, Trans Island Bus Services Ltd (TBIS) and Singapore Shuttle Services.
Singapore also has a Mass Rapid Transport (SMRT) system that is clean and modern. Its subsidiary, Singapore LRT Pte Ltd runs the modern and convenient feeder service (light rail transport) that links a new town to the MRT system.
Additionally, you can hire a car from either an international or local car hire firm such as CityLimo Auto Services Group.
TransitLink is a service company set up by SBS, SMRT and TIBS to develop an integrated public transport system by bringing buses, the MRT and the LRT together as one comprehensive network.
The Land Transport Authority provides more information on the transport arrangements in Singapore.
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The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to Singapore. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.
The laws are strictly enforced in Singapore. Singaporean laws differ from Australian laws and are generally more conservative.
Health
There is good medical care available and many doctors are Australian trained. Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate payment for health services. It can be expensive so appropriate insurance is important. The Ministry of Health provides a list of medical professionals and their clinics
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Tipping
Tipping is not common and is prohibited at the airport. There is no need to tip for taxi, hotel or restaurant services as a 10 per cent service charge has most likely been added to the bill. |
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Time zones and time differences
Singapore is two hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
To find out the current times in Singapore, view the World Clock.
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Dialling codes
Singapore's country code is 65.
For calls to Singapore from Australia dial: 0011 + 65 + area code + telephone number
For calls from Singapore to Australia dial: 001 or 019 + 61 + area code + telephone number
For further information (eg. area codes) please visit the White Pages - international dialling codes.
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Public holidays
May 1 – Labour Day
June 2 – Vesak Day
August 9 – National Day
November 11 – Deepavali
November 25 – Hari Raya Puasa
December 25 – Christmas Day |
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Electricity and water
Singapore’s power supply is 220/240 volts, 50Hz 1, 3 phases, 2, 4 wires. Multi-purpose travelling adaptors would be the best option as there are a couple of standards. |
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Dining
Eating is a favourite past time of the Singaporeans with a large variety of restaurants and eating places to choose from. The secrets of Singapore's culinary success stems from the migrants who bring with them culinary influences from China, India, Malaysia and Indonesia. Visitors to Singapore can also find many Western-style foods from fast food chains to five-star hotel restaurants.
Smoking is banned in all air-conditioned restaurants.
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