Singapore bans entry for all work pass holders from India

This includes those with prior approval to visit the city-state

BY Nurhuda Syed 23 Apr 2021

From April 24, Singapore will be barring entry for all long-term pass holders, such as those with an E-Pass, S-Pass and work permit, with recent travel history to India. This includes individuals who have secured prior approval to travel to the city-state and those planning to transit through.

The move is a reaction to reports of India’s aggressive new wave of COVID-19 and the emergence of a deadly “double mutant” strain.

“As a precaution we will be taking additional steps to tighten border measures,” Minister Lawrence Wong said yesterday (April 22) in a press conference. “From April 23rd, 2359hrs, all long-term pass holders and short-term visitors with recent travel history to India will not be allowed entry into Singapore or transit through Singapore. This will also apply to all those who have obtained prior approval for entry.”

Many other places have shut their borders or limited entry for travellers to and from India, including Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, US and UK. Wong added that the new measure is a “temporary freeze” on travellers while they monitor the situation and manage the risks.

He also acknowledged that the “major move” will especially impact the construction, marine and processing sectors, and hit local SMEs and contractors hardest. The government is currently looking into measures to support these companies.

In addition to the travel ban, Singapore this week announced an extended stay-home notice (SHN) for travellers from India, including citizens and permanent residents. Upon arrival, individuals will have to serve a total of 21 days in a dedicated facility. Those who have not completed their original 14-day SHN by April 22nd will have to serve an additional seven days.