Largely due to the free trade agreement that exists between Singapore and Australia, there are a great number of business trips that are undertaken each year to the country by Australians. Although Singapore is a highly developed country with extremely low crime rates—especially concerning visiting businesspeople and tourists—there are a number of things to take into account ahead of any intended trip.
Entry and Exit
All adult Australian citizens are required to have a scan of their thumbprint taken on every occasion that they enter and exit Singapore. If you register your thumbprints via the authorities' bio-screen upon arrival, it is then possible to make use of the automated self-clearance system when exiting which speeds things up. You must ensure that your passport has at least six months left to run in order to enter the country.
Health Matters
Due to the risk of mosquito-borne diseases in this part of southern Asia, it is highly advisable to consider a set of vaccinations before travelling. Medical services should be sought at least eight weeks prior to travel. Additional advice should be asked for if you are pregnant, due to the problem of the Zika virus in Singapore. Although Singapore enjoys high-quality medical facilities, it is worth taking out your own travel insurance. During the early spring, Singapore tends to suffer from hazy smog which means that people with respiratory conditions should consider travelling at other times of the year.
Working Legally
If you are visiting clients, making presentations or attending a conference, then you won't need a work permit. Taking some goods into the country to sell, such as e-cigarettes, is banned, although you may take in such devices for your own use. Crimes like extortion and falsifying public documents, such as visas, are punishable by law and could result in a caning in some cases. If you intend to work in Singapore, perhaps on a secondment to a business that is based there, then it is a legal requirement that you apply for and hold a valid work permit before travelling.
Terror Threats
Unfortunately, there is a risk of terrorism in Singapore. If your business means that you will need to be entering and exiting government buildings, which are considered potential targets, then you should exercise caution. Stick to the main tourist areas in central Singapore and you should remain safe. The police may require you to look into your bags if you are heading to a large public event, so be prepared for this possibility.
Share21 December 2016
I have tried to quit smoking three times over the last few years, but it never really stuck. My mother just got diagnosed with lung cancer, and it's given me the wakeup call that I have been waiting for. I have quit smoking again, but this time I spoke to my doctor before I started and it's made a lot of difference. He organised some nicotine replacement products and counselling to help me quit for good this time. I have started this blog to let people know how much easier it is to quit when your doctor is helping you.
