By Thelma Richard 
Understanding the Importance of the Singapore Arrival Card for Families
When planning a trip to Singapore, it’s crucial for every traveler to be well-prepared with the right documentation, especially when traveling with children. The Singapore arrival card is one such essential document required for most international visitors. Parents often wonder whether this requirement also applies to their children. The short answer is yes—children, regardless of age, must have a completed Singapore arrival card submitted before entering the country. Whether you’re a family heading to Singapore for vacation, a layover, or visiting relatives, knowing the rules surrounding the Singapore arrival card will ensure a stress-free journey.
Does Every Child Need a Singapore Arrival Card?
Yes, every child, including infants and minors, must have a Singapore arrival card submitted before arrival. The requirement does not exempt children of any age. This rule ensures that the Singapore immigration authorities have accurate records of every individual entering the country, including minors traveling with parents or guardians. Even if a child is listed on a parent’s passport, a separate Singapore arrival card entry is still required for the child. Parents or guardians are responsible for submitting the card on behalf of their children.
Why Is a Singapore Arrival Card Required for Children?
Singapore has one of the world’s most efficient and secure border control systems. To maintain this, all travelers, including children, must be accounted for through the Singapore arrival card system. The card allows immigration authorities to pre-screen visitors and manage entry into the country effectively. By requiring a Singapore arrival card for every person, including children, Singapore ensures better safety, security, and public health monitoring. This is particularly important in a post-pandemic era where tracking and controlling health risks are crucial.
How Can Parents Submit a Singapore Arrival Card for Their Child?
Submitting a Singapore arrival card for a child is a straightforward process. Parents can use the official online portal to fill in the necessary information on behalf of the child. The form requires basic details such as the child’s full name, date of birth, nationality, and travel document information. Travel details including the date of arrival, flight number, and address of stay in Singapore are also required. Once the Singapore arrival card is filled out and submitted online, there is no need for a printed copy unless instructed otherwise. The confirmation is electronically linked to immigration records.
What If a Child Is Traveling With Only One Parent or a Guardian?
If a child is traveling with one parent or a legal guardian, the Singapore arrival card must still be submitted for the child. In such cases, additional documents such as a birth certificate or a notarized consent letter from the other parent may be required upon arrival, although this is usually not asked when the child is entering as a tourist. However, having these documents handy is always a good idea. Regardless of the family setup, the requirement to submit a Singapore arrival card remains unchanged.
Is There a Fee to Submit the Singapore Arrival Card for a Child?
There is no government fee for submitting the Singapore arrival card for any traveler, including children. However, third-party services or travel agents who assist with the submission may charge a service fee. If you are using the Singapore Arrival Card Portal, the submission process is quick, user-friendly, and reliable for all family members. It’s essential to avoid unofficial websites that may charge hidden fees or provide incorrect information about the Singapore arrival card process.
When Should You Submit the Singapore Arrival Card for a Child?
The Singapore arrival card should be submitted within three days before the date of arrival in Singapore. This time frame applies to both adults and children. Submitting too early may result in the information being considered outdated, while submitting too late could lead to delays at immigration checkpoints. Parents planning trips should set a reminder to fill out the Singapore arrival card in the correct time window for every family member, including children, to avoid any last-minute issues.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Rule for Children?
There are no specific exemptions for children when it comes to submitting the Singapore arrival card. Even newborns entering Singapore must have a card submitted. The only categories of travelers who are exempt include Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders returning via specific automated lanes, but this does not usually apply to tourists or short-term visitors. Therefore, parents should assume that the Singapore arrival card is a necessary document for each child entering Singapore.
What Happens If You Forget to Submit the Singapore Arrival Card for a Child?
Failing to submit a Singapore arrival card for a child may result in delays at the immigration checkpoint or denial of entry. Singapore’s immigration authorities are strict with compliance, and the Singapore arrival card is considered a mandatory pre-arrival requirement. To avoid inconvenience, families should ensure that the form is submitted for each child well before travel. It’s also wise to carry confirmation screenshots or emails as proof in case of system errors.
Final Tips for Families Traveling to Singapore
To make your journey seamless, always double-check the submission status of every family member’s Singapore arrival card, including your children’s. Make sure all details are accurate and correspond to the travel documents being used. Use trusted platforms like the Singapore Arrival Card Portal to avoid mistakes. Keep in mind that the Singapore arrival card is not a visa and must be submitted even if your child does not need a visa to enter Singapore. Planning ahead ensures that your trip to Singapore is smooth and memorable for the entire family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, all travelers entering Singapore, including children, must have a valid Singapore arrival card submission. Parents should treat the child’s Singapore arrival card submission with the same importance as their own. With proper planning and timely submission, families can ensure a hassle-free experience at Singapore’s immigration checkpoints. For reliable information and simple submission steps, trust the Singapore Arrival Card Portal to guide you through every step of the process.