Singapore is a vibrant, modern city-state known for its world-class healthcare, efficient infrastructure, and status as a global business hub. Every year, thousands of visitors, expatriates, and immigrants arrive in Singapore for tourism, work, or permanent relocation. One crucial requirement for many travelers and newcomers is travel insurance.
For immigrants, especially those entering Singapore on short-term passes or long-stay visas, travel insurance provides a safety net for medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and other unexpected events during your stay.
Why Travel Insurance Matters in Singapore
Singapore’s healthcare system is excellent—but it can be very costly for non-residents. Travel insurance is highly recommended (and in some cases required) to cover:
- Medical expenses
- Emergency hospitalization
- Repatriation
- Trip cancellation/delay
- Loss or theft of personal belongings
It helps avoid financial burden while ensuring access to urgent care if needed.
Who Needs Travel Insurance in Singapore?
| Visitor or Immigrant Type | Is Travel Insurance Required? |
| Tourists (short stays) | Not mandatory, but strongly advised |
| Work pass holders (EP, S Pass) | Required by employers or MOM in most cases |
| Student pass holders | Often required by schools or institutions |
| Long-term visit pass holders | Highly recommended |
| Permanent Residents (PR) | Not required, can apply for local health insurance |
Certain entry schemes (e.g. SG Arrival Card or Vaccinated Travel Framework) may also require proof of insurance, especially during health crises like pandemics.
Minimum Coverage Guidelines
While Singapore does not enforce universal minimums for insurance, typical expectations include:
| Coverage Type | Recommended Minimum |
| Medical expenses | SGD 30,000 or more |
| Emergency evacuation | Included |
| Repatriation of remains | Included |
| Trip interruption | Optional but beneficial |
| COVID-19 coverage | Required for some travel lanes |
For short-term visitors during COVID-19, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) previously required proof of travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage of at least SGD 30,000.
What Does Singapore Travel Insurance Cover?
| Coverage Area | What It Includes |
| Medical coverage | Doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery |
| Emergency medical evacuation | Air ambulance, evacuation to home country |
| Repatriation | Transportation of remains in case of death |
| Travel delays/cancellations | Flight delays, trip changes due to illness or emergencies |
| Baggage loss or theft | Reimbursement for lost or stolen belongings |
| Personal liability | Costs due to accidental damage to third parties |
| COVID-19 protection | Treatment and quarantine expenses (check plan terms) |
Recommended Insurance Providers in Singapore
Here are popular travel insurance providers offering suitable plans for immigrants and travelers:
| Provider | Key Features |
| AIA Singapore | Comprehensive plans, medical + personal liability coverage |
| AXA Singapore | Multiple tiers, optional add-ons for COVID-19 & business trips |
| FWD Insurance | Budget-friendly, customizable, digital claims process |
| NTUC Income | Good local coverage, student and long-term plans |
| Allianz Travel | Global coverage with 24/7 assistance |
Cost of Travel Insurance in Singapore
| Coverage Duration | Estimated Cost |
| 1 week | SGD 15 – SGD 40 |
| 1 month | SGD 30 – SGD 80 |
| 3 months | SGD 100 – SGD 200+ |
| 1 year (long-stay plans) | SGD 300 – SGD 600+ |
Prices vary based on age, coverage level, and pre-existing conditions.
How to Buy Travel Insurance
Step-by-Step:
- Compare policies online – Use sites like PolicyPal, SingSaver, or MoneySmart.
- Check visa or pass requirements – Ensure the policy meets official guidelines.
- Choose the coverage period – Match your length of stay in Singapore.
- Make the purchase online – Most plans offer instant confirmation and e-certificates.
- Print and save documents – Keep a copy for immigration and emergencies.
Travel Insurance for Entry into Singapore
If you are traveling under special schemes (like Vaccinated Travel Pass or Air Travel Pass), you may need to:
- Submit insurance documents upon arrival
- Show coverage certificates with clear mention of Singapore
- Present the policy during visa or entry pass application
Travel insurance in Singapore is more than just a requirement—it’s a vital protection for immigrants and visitors alike. From world-class healthcare access to coverage for flight disruptions or lost luggage, the right policy ensures a stress-free experience in the country.
Whether you’re a student, skilled worker, or visiting family, investing in a reliable insurance plan gives you peace of mind and helps you navigate any unforeseen challenges during your stay in Singapore.
FAQs
1: Is travel insurance mandatory for all visitors to Singapore?
No, but it is strongly recommended, and certain visa categories may require it. During health emergencies (e.g., COVID-19), specific travel lanes made insurance mandatory.
2: Can I use international insurance in Singapore?
Yes, as long as it explicitly covers Singapore and meets the coverage requirements, especially for healthcare and emergencies.
3: Does travel insurance in Singapore cover COVID-19?
Many modern plans do include COVID-19 coverage, but you must check your specific policy details for treatment, quarantine, or cancellation coverage.
4: Can immigrants buy local Singapore insurance instead?
Yes, once you hold a valid long-term pass or Employment/Student Pass, you may be eligible for local health insurance or employer-sponsored plans.
