VTL Singapore to Malaysia: New Travel Option for Cross-Border Commuters

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If you’re planning a trip from Singapore to Malaysia, you may have heard about the VTL programme. The Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) is a framework that facilitates two-way travel by individuals who have received a full regimen of a COVID-19 vaccine. The VTL is designed to allow fully vaccinated travellers to enter Malaysia without having to undergo quarantine upon arrival.

A train crosses the causeway from Singapore to Malaysia

The VTL programme has been implemented to restore connectivity between the two countries, which had been disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The VTL is available for short-term visitors, including business and official travellers, or holders of Long-Term Passes such as Long-Term Visit Pass, Student’s Pass, Work Pass, or Dependent’s Pass. The VTL programme applies to travel by air and land, and it is important to note that different requirements apply for each mode of travel.

Key Takeaways

The VTL programme allows fully vaccinated travellers to enter Malaysia without having to undergo quarantine upon arrival.
The VTL is available for short-term visitors and holders of Long-Term Passes.
Different requirements apply for air and land travel under the VTL programme.

Understanding the VTL Programme

Passengers boarding a designated VTL bus from Singapore to Malaysia with health and travel documents checked by officials

If you are planning to travel between Singapore and Malaysia, you may be eligible for the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) programme. This programme allows fully vaccinated individuals to travel between the two countries without having to serve quarantine. Here’s what you need to know about the VTL programme.

Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible for the VTL programme, you must be a citizen or permanent resident of either Singapore or Malaysia and have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Children under the age of 12 who are not vaccinated may also travel but are subject to additional requirements. You must also have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 48 hours of departure and a negative COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (ART) taken within 24 hours of departure.

Application Process for Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP)

To apply for the Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP), you must submit your application through the SafeTravel portal. You will need to provide your personal details, travel history, vaccination status, and COVID-19 PCR and ART test results. Once your application is approved, you will receive a VTP that allows you to travel under the VTL programme.

Covid-19 Testing Protocols

Under the VTL programme, you will be required to take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival in Singapore and Malaysia. You will also need to take an ART test on the third day of your stay in Singapore. These tests must be taken at designated testing facilities.

It is important to note that you will be responsible for the cost of all COVID-19 testing and any medical treatment required during your stay in Singapore or Malaysia. You should also ensure that you have adequate travel insurance coverage that includes COVID-19-related medical expenses.

Overall, the VTL programme is a great way to facilitate travel between Singapore and Malaysia while maintaining public health measures. By following the requirements and protocols, you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free travel experience.

Travel and Transit Information

A map of Singapore and Malaysia with highlighted transportation routes and landmarks

Transport Options and Checkpoints

When travelling from Singapore to Malaysia under the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL), you can choose to travel by air or land. For air travel, you must take designated flights approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) and operated by either Malaysia or Singapore air carriers. For land travel, you can take designated bus services via the Causeway or Tuas Second Link checkpoints.

Pre-Departure and On-Arrival Procedures

Before departure, you will need to apply for a Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) and undergo a pre-departure COVID-19 antigen rapid test (ART) accredited by the Ministry of Health (MOH). You must also complete the electronic health declaration and SG Arrival Card. On arrival, you will undergo an on-arrival PCR test and self-isolate until you receive a negative test result.

Accommodation and Local Transport

If you are a Singapore Permanent Resident, Long-Term Pass holder, or have in-principle approval for a work permit or employment pass, you can self-isolate at your place of residence. Otherwise, you must stay at a designated quarantine facility. Local transport options include private transport, taxis, and public transport such as buses and trains.

To travel by bus, you can purchase tickets from Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange, Queen Street Terminal, or Larkin Sentral Bus Terminal. For designated bus services under the VTL, you can purchase tickets from Transtar Travel or Handal Indah. Please note that there is a daily quota for VTL travellers, and tickets are subject to availability.

Overall, the VTL aims to facilitate quarantine-free travel between Singapore and Malaysia for vaccinated individuals, and to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two economies. It is important to stay updated on the border control measures and public health situation in both countries, and to comply with all pre-departure and on-arrival procedures to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

A map of Singapore and Malaysia with a highlighted route, a computer screen showing the VTL application process, and a list of frequently asked questions

What are the current travel requirements for entering Malaysia from Singapore?

If you are planning to enter Malaysia from Singapore, you must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a vaccine recognized by the Ministry of Health Malaysia. You will also need to undergo a COVID-19 test (either ART or PCR) before crossing the border. Once you have met these requirements, you can enter Malaysia without the need for quarantine.

Are there any specific documents needed for crossing into Malaysia by land?

Yes, you will need to have a Vaccination Certificate proving that you have received a full course of a COVID-19 vaccine recognized by the Ministry of Health Malaysia. You will also need to have a negative COVID-19 test result, which must be presented to the authorities at the border checkpoint.

What is the process for entering Singapore from Malaysia via land routes?

To enter Singapore from Malaysia via land routes, you will need to have a valid COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before your departure. Once you have arrived in Singapore, you will be required to take another COVID-19 test. You will also need to have a Singapore Arrival Card, which you can apply for online before your trip.

Is a COVID-19 test still necessary for travel between Singapore and Malaysia?

Yes, a COVID-19 test is still necessary for travel between Singapore and Malaysia. You will need to have a negative COVID-19 test result before you can cross the border in either direction.

How do I use the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card when travelling from Singapore?

To use the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card when travelling from Singapore, you will need to apply for it online before your trip. You will need to provide your personal details, travel information, and COVID-19 test result. Once you have completed the form, you will receive a QR code, which you will need to present to the authorities at the border checkpoint.

Do Malaysian nationals need special documentation to enter Singapore at present?

Yes, Malaysian nationals will need to have a valid COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours before their departure. They will also need to have a Singapore Arrival Card, which they can apply for online before their trip.