Visa Requirements For Singaporeans Visiting Brunei

Singaporean citizens do not need a visa to enter Brunei for short-term stays of up to 30 days. This is because, since 1 March 1985, Singaporean and Malaysian citizens have been exempt from visa requirements to enter Brunei. However, they must hold a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay in the country.

Singaporeans can visit Brunei for up to 30 days without a visa

Singaporean citizens do not need a visa to enter Brunei for short-term stays of up to 30 days. This visa exemption has been in place since 1 March 1985, when it was codified into the Passports (Visa) (Exemption) Order 1985.

To enter Brunei, Singaporean citizens must hold a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay. They must also be able to provide proof of onward travel from Brunei. It is recommended that travellers consult the nearest Brunei diplomatic mission offices for the latest visa information and requirements.

As of 9 February 2023, all foreign nationals, including Singaporeans, must register using the e-Arrival card at least three days before arriving in Brunei. Registration is free and requires a valid passport or travel document, information on residence in Brunei, and details of the flight or vehicle used.

It is important to note that Singaporeans planning to stay in Brunei for an extended period beyond 30 days should closely monitor their immigration status and ensure they do not exceed the permitted length of stay. Visa requirements can change at short notice, so travellers are advised to contact their travel agency or the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in Singapore for the most up-to-date information.

Singaporeans must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their stay in Brunei

Singaporean citizens do not need a visa to enter Brunei for short-term stays of up to 30 days. However, they must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay in the country. This is a standard requirement for many countries, and it is always good to renew your passport early if it has less than six months' validity remaining.

It is important to note that visa requirements can change at short notice, so it is recommended to check for the latest updates before travelling. Singaporean travellers can follow the Singapore High Commission in Bandar Seri Begawan on Facebook and Instagram for timely travel alerts and updates. Additionally, they can refer to the official websites of the ICA and the Ministry of Health for updates on precautionary measures, travel advisories, and restrictions related to COVID-19.

When entering Brunei, Singaporean citizens must also comply with the local customs and laws. Brunei is an Islamic country, and it is important to dress modestly in public areas and respect Islamic traditions and customs. The sale of alcohol is banned in Brunei, but non-Muslims over 17 years of age may import a limited quantity for personal consumption in private. It is mandatory to declare this at the point of entry.

It is also important to be aware of other local laws and regulations. For example, it is an offence to consume food and drink in public during the fasting hours of Ramadan. Additionally, smoking is prohibited in all enclosed and workplace areas, as well as sidewalks near business premises and within a six-metre radius of any building where smoking is banned.

Bruneian customs require proof of onward travel from visitors

Singaporean citizens do not need a visa to enter Brunei for short-term stays of up to 30 days. However, they must hold a valid Singaporean passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay in Brunei.

Bruneian customs require visitors to provide proof of onward travel from the country. This is a mandatory requirement for all foreign nationals, who must also register using the e-Arrival card at least three days before arriving in Brunei. This registration is free of charge and requires a passport or valid individual travel document, information on residence in Brunei, and details of the flight or vehicle used.

It is important to note that Singaporeans planning to stay in Brunei for an extended period beyond 30 days should closely monitor their immigration status and ensure they do not overstay. Visa requirements can change at short notice, so it is recommended to contact a travel agency or the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam in Singapore for the most up-to-date information.

In addition to the proof of onward travel, visitors to Brunei should be aware of other customs regulations. These include restrictions on the import and export of certain items, such as firearms, ammunition, knives, alcoholic beverages, and plant and animal products. It is advisable to refer to the Brunei Customs and Excise Department's website for detailed information on customs requirements.

Visitors to Brunei must respect Islamic and local traditions, customs, and laws

As a visitor to Brunei, it is important to respect the local traditions, customs, and laws, especially those related to Islam, which is the official religion. Here are some guidelines to follow during your stay:

Dress Modestly

It is important to dress modestly when visiting Brunei, especially when visiting government and public buildings such as health centres. For example, avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothing. When visiting a mosque, women should wear long sleeves and a hijab, while men should wear long or short sleeves.

Respect the Holy Month of Ramadan

During Ramadan, it is against the law to eat, drink, or smoke in public during fasting hours. It is also important to be respectful and avoid causing offence during this holy month.

Be Mindful of Business and Office Hours

On Fridays, places of business and offices, including shops and restaurants, are closed between midday and 2 pm for prayers. Friday is also a non-working day for government offices and local schools, which instead open on Saturdays.

Respect the Royal Family

His Majesty The Sultan and other members of the Bruneian Royal Family are highly revered, and public criticism of them is considered offensive and even illegal.

Understand the Laws and Customs Related to Relationships and Marriage

In Brunei, adultery and closeness in private between an unmarried man and woman is illegal if one person is a Muslim. Same-sex sexual activity is also criminalised and can result in severe penalties.

Alcohol and Tobacco Restrictions

The sale of alcohol and tobacco is illegal in Brunei. Non-Muslims aged 17 and over may import a limited amount of alcohol for personal consumption, but it must be declared to customs authorities and consumed in private.

Smoking Restrictions

Smoking is prohibited in certain public places, including shopping and eating areas, bus stops, stations, car parks, and near buildings.

Gift-Giving Etiquette

If you are invited to a Bruneian home, it is customary to bring good quality chocolates or fruit as a gift. Avoid giving toy dogs or anything made of pigskin. If giving food, ensure that it is 'halal' and does not contain gelatin or other non-halal ingredients. Avoid white wrapping paper, as it symbolizes death and mourning.

Communication and Body Language

In Brunei, communication is generally indirect and ambiguous to avoid causing embarrassment or offence. It is considered disrespectful to stare directly into the eyes of someone who is senior to you in age or status. Shaking hands with someone of the opposite gender is also rare, especially with ethnic Malay men and women. A respectful greeting for someone of the opposite gender may be to place your right hand over your heart and give a small bow.

Bruneian customs do not allow foreign-registered vehicles to purchase subsidised petrol

Singaporean citizens do not need a visa to enter Brunei for short-term stays of up to 30 days for tourism purposes. However, they must hold a valid Singaporean passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended stay in Brunei and provide proof of onward travel from the country. As visa requirements can change at short notice, it is advisable to check for updates before travelling. As of 9 February 2023, all foreign nationals must register using the e-Arrival card at least three days before their arrival in Brunei, providing their passport or valid individual travel document, information on their residence in Brunei, and details of their flight or vehicle.

When visiting Brunei, it is important to be respectful of the local customs, traditions, and laws. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Bruneian Customs and Local Laws:

• Islam is the official religion in Brunei, and visitors should respect Islamic traditions and customs.
• During the holy month of Ramadan, it is illegal to consume food and drink in public during fasting hours.
• Dress modestly in public areas and avoid wearing revealing clothing such as tank tops, bikinis, shorts, and mini skirts.
• The Sultan and members of the Royal Family are highly revered, and public criticism of them is considered offensive.
• The sale of alcohol and tobacco is banned in Brunei. Non-Muslims over the age of 17 can import a limited amount of alcohol for personal consumption in private, which must be declared upon arrival.
• Smoking is prohibited in certain public places, including shopping and eating areas, bus stops, stations, car parks, and near buildings.
• Brunei has strict laws against the possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives, including fireworks and firecrackers.
• Possession of pornographic material is illegal.
• Same-sex sexual activity is criminalised in Brunei and can result in severe penalties.
• Drug offences carry severe penalties, including, in some cases, the death penalty.

In addition to these cultural and legal considerations, it is worth noting that Brunei has a low incidence of serious or violent crime, but petty crimes such as residential burglaries, theft, and vehicle break-ins do occur. It is advisable to take standard precautions, such as not leaving personal belongings unattended.

Bruneian Customs Regarding Foreign-Registered Vehicles:

When it comes to foreign-registered vehicles, Bruneian customs do not allow these vehicles to purchase subsidised petrol. Foreign-registered vehicles must pay non-subsidised petrol prices, and there are only 14 designated filling stations where they can buy motor fuel, with a limit of 250 litres. These stations typically only sell premium "V-Power" fuel to foreign cars, and payment is usually made in cash. Similar restrictions apply to foreign-registered vehicles driving to Malaysia; they are only permitted to purchase premium RON97 fuel, not the subsidised RON95 fuel, and it may not be available at all petrol stations. Therefore, it is recommended to fill up before leaving a city.

Frequently asked questions