SG Arrival Card: Everything You Need to Know for Land Entry
Every traveller entering Singapore — whether by air, sea, or land — must submit an SG Arrival Card (SGAC) before clearing immigration. This electronic form replaced the old paper disembarkation card and can be completed in just a few minutes on your phone.
What Is the SG Arrival Card?
The SG Arrival Card is a digital form that collects your personal details, travel document information, trip details, and health declaration. It is submitted through the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) digital services portal or the MyICA mobile app. Upon successful submission, you receive an electronic notification — there is no physical card or stamp.
When Should You Submit It?
You can submit the SG Arrival Card up to three days before your arrival in Singapore. For land travellers, it is strongly recommended to complete it before you reach the checkpoint. Filling it out while queued in traffic on the causeway is possible, but having it done beforehand means you can proceed straight to the immigration counter or automated lane.
Who Needs to Submit?
All foreign travellers entering Singapore must submit the SG Arrival Card. However, Singapore citizens, Permanent Residents, and holders of long-term passes (Employment Pass, S Pass, Work Permit, Student Pass, Dependant Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass) are exempt from submitting the SG Arrival Card when entering via land checkpoints. These travellers use their existing pass or card for immigration clearance.
How to Fill It Out
- Visit the ICA e-Service portal or open the MyICA app.
- Select "SG Arrival Card" and choose whether you are submitting for yourself or on behalf of others (family group submission is available).
- Enter your passport details, nationality, and date of birth.
- Provide your trip details: date of arrival, mode of transport, and expected duration of stay.
- Answer the health declaration questions honestly.
- Review and submit. You will receive a confirmation with a reference number.
At the Checkpoint
When you arrive at Woodlands or Tuas, the immigration officer will scan your passport. The SG Arrival Card is linked electronically to your passport number — you do not need to show a printout or screenshot. However, keeping the confirmation reference handy is a good idea in case of any system issues.
For travellers using the automated clearance lanes (e.g., enrolment in the ICA automated clearance scheme), the process is even faster: simply scan your passport and look at the camera.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong passport number: Double-check every digit. A single wrong number means the card is not linked to your actual travel document.
- Submitting too late: While you can submit on arrival, network connectivity at the checkpoint can be spotty. Do it before you leave JB or before you queue.
- Not updating after itinerary changes: If your departure date changes, submit a new SG Arrival Card with the correct details.
- Confusing it with a visa: The SG Arrival Card is not a visa. Check whether your nationality requires a separate visa for Singapore entry.
Malaysia Side: MY Arrival Card
Similarly, Malaysia has its own digital arrival card called the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) for foreign travellers entering Malaysia. Singapore citizens and PRs are generally exempt when entering by land, but other nationalities should check the Malaysian Immigration Department website for current requirements.
Summary
The SG Arrival Card is a quick digital form that takes about 2–3 minutes to complete. Do it before you reach the checkpoint, double-check your passport details, and you will breeze through immigration. For long-term pass holders entering by land, you are exempt — just have your pass ready.