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SINGAPORE – As of Monday (January 4), all long-term pass holders and short-term visitors with a history of travel to South Africa within the past 14 days will not be allowed to enter or transit through Singapore .
The new measure begins at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, the Health Ministry said on Friday (January 1) following reports of a potentially more contagious strain of Covid-19 circulating in South Africa.
“To reduce the risk of spread to Singapore, we are implementing new border restrictions for travelers from South Africa as a precautionary measure,” the Health Ministry said.
This restriction will also apply to those who have obtained prior approval to enter Singapore, the Health Ministry added.
Previously, those who had traveled to South Africa were required to submit a 14-day Home Stay Notice (SHN).
Returning Singapore citizens and permanent residents will also need to undergo a Covid-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon arrival in Singapore at the beginning of their SHN. These testing requirements do not apply to those who are only in transit through Singapore.
To speed up their PCR Covid-19 test at the airport, travelers are advised to register and prepay for their arrival before departing for Singapore, the Health Ministry added.
He said: “While the strain has been suggested to be more transmissible, there is currently insufficient evidence to determine whether this strain is associated with any change in disease severity, antibody response, or vaccine efficacy. These aspects are being investigated. “
The restrictions will be in effect until further notice, the Health Ministry said.
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