Singapore will implement stricter border security measures starting January 30, 2026, when the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority will begin issuing No-Boarding Directive notices to airline operators at Changi and Seletar airports, preventing prohibited or undesirable travelers who pose health, security, or immigration threats from boarding Singapore-bound flights before they reach the nation's shores.
The new system leverages advance traveler information from SG Arrival Cards, flight manifests, and other data sources to screen passengers before departure, with airlines receiving NBD notices required to deny boarding to flagged individuals or face fines of up to S$10,000 (approximately US$7,705) for non-compliance.
Under the enhanced regulations, airlines may need to conduct additional verification checks such as visa validation or SG Arrival Card submission confirmation before allowing passengers or crew members to board, while travelers denied boarding who still wish to enter Singapore must submit approval requests through the ICA Feedback Channel before arranging alternative flights.
The no-boarding directive system, part of the Immigration Amendment Act that took effect on December 31, 2024, will be extended to sea-going vessels bringing travelers to Singapore from 2028, though similar measures for land checkpoints face practical implementation challenges as cross-border bus operators typically do not collect passenger information in advance.
The strengthened border controls have already shown results, with a 43 percent increase in foreigners refused entry during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, as Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam emphasized the importance of enhanced profiling and detection capabilities in identifying high-risk travelers before their arrival at Singapore's increasingly busy border checkpoints.
