Most visitors do not need visas for stays as long as two weeks if they have onward or return ticket as well as sufficient funds for their stay. However, entry visas are required of citizens of Afghanistan, Cambodia, India, Laos, the People ‘s Republic of China and Vietnam. Those travelling on Hong Kong Certificates of Identity or refugee travel papers also must have entry visas.

Singapore is a virtual free port but cigarettes and other tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, furniture and clothing are dutiable. Visitors may bring in duty-free a reasonable amount personal effects and up to fifty dollars worth of prepared food such as biscuits, cakes or chocolates for their own consumption.

Visitors over 18 years old and entering Singapore from any country except Malaysia may also bring in one litre of wine, port or hard liquor. From 1 January 1991, Singapore has creased to allow visitors to bring in duty-free cigarettes.

Magazines such as playboy and Penthouse are considered pornography and can be confiscated. Import permits are needed for all arms, including ornamental knives and ceremonial swords. The same goes for all videotapes, and films, which have to be permitted by the Board of Film Censors. Visitors without import permits are required to hand such items to Customs on entry and they may be collected on departure.

The death sentence is mandatory for anyone convicted of trafficking in or transporting into or out of Singapore more than 15 grams of heroin or more than 30 grams of morphine. This is strictly enforced and there are stringent checks at all entry points.