The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore has implemented a significant update to its digital entry system, expanding the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) interface to include Russian and six other languages. This initiative aims to streamline the immigration process for global travelers, increasing the total number of supported languages to 19. The update reflects Singapore's commitment to enhancing the visitor experience at its borders by removing language barriers for non-English speakers.
New Language Options and Interface Enhancements
To accommodate a broader demographic of international visitors, the ICA has integrated several new linguistic options into the official SGAC portal and mobile application. In addition to Russian, the platform now supports Indonesian, Dutch, Arabic, Spanish, Filipino (Tagalog), and Italian. The SG Arrival Card is a mandatory electronic document that has replaced the traditional paper-based disembarkation/embarkation cards for all foreign nationals entering the city-state. Alongside the expanded language support, the authority has also refreshed the user interface to improve navigation and accessibility for travelers.
- The digital card must be submitted within three days prior to the scheduled date of arrival.
- Submission is required for all foreign visitors arriving via land, sea, or air.
- The service is free of charge via the official ICA website or the MyICA Mobile app.
Transit Regulations and Visa Policies
The update is particularly relevant for travelers utilizing specific transit arrangements. For instance, Russian citizens remain eligible for the 96-hour visa-free transit facility. Under these regulations, travelers may enter Singapore by any mode of transport but must satisfy specific exit criteria to qualify for the stay. This facility is designed to encourage short-term tourism and business stopovers in the region.
"Arrival in Singapore is permitted by any means, but departure from the country is only allowed by air and to a third country."
The implementation of these multilingual updates ensures that travelers can accurately provide the required health and travel declarations. As of September 1, 2026, all visitors are encouraged to use the updated interface to ensure a seamless entry process through Changi Airport or other designated checkpoints. These technical improvements serve to maintain Singapore's status as a leading global hub for tourism and commerce.