Etiquette & Local Law Guides

Singapore laws for tourists: the basics

Singapore is known for being clean, orderly and safe. Part of the reason is a clear set of public rules. Singapore laws for tourists are the same as for residents, and fines are common. Most rules are simple common sense. A few, though, surprise first-time visitors. Signs in English usually explain what is not allowed, so look out for them.

Rules that surprise visitors

Chewing gum

Ordinary chewing gum is not sold in Singapore, and you cannot bring it in. Leave it at home. Some medical gums are available from pharmacies.

Smoking and vaping

Smoking is banned in most public places. This includes air-conditioned buildings, covered walkways, bus shelters and areas near building entrances. Smoke only in marked smoking areas, which often have a yellow box painted on the ground. Vaping is illegal. It is an offence to own or use a vape or e-cigarette, or to bring one into the country.

Eating and drinking on public transport

You cannot eat or drink on MRT trains, on buses or inside the paid area of stations. The rule covers drinks of all kinds, even water. Durian, a strong-smelling tropical fruit, is not allowed on trains at all.

Littering, spitting and crossing the road

Littering and spitting both carry fines. Use the bins, which are easy to find. Cross roads at marked crossings, traffic lights, bridges or underpasses. Crossing elsewhere near one of these, known as jaywalking, is an offence.

Feeding wildlife

Do not feed monkeys, birds or other wild animals, including in parks and nature reserves. It is against the law, and it can make animals bold or aggressive.

Serious offences: drugs, alcohol and customs

• Drugs: Singapore's drug laws are very strict. Possession can lead to prison, and trafficking can carry the death penalty. Never carry a package for someone else.
• Alcohol: The legal drinking age is 18. Drinking in public places is banned late at night, and shops stop selling alcohol at the same time. Late at night, drink only in licensed bars and restaurants, and always drink responsibly.
• Customs: There is no duty-free allowance for cigarettes, so declare any tobacco you bring. Check the Singapore Customs website for banned and restricted items.
• Photography: Do not take photos where signs forbid it, such as at military sites.

For the rules on arrival, see Visas & Entry.

Everyday etiquette

At hawker centres

Hawker centres are large food centres with many small, low-cost stalls. Locals often "chope", or reserve, a seat by leaving a packet of tissues on the table. Do not move these items. Find another seat instead. After eating, return your tray and dishes to the tray return point. This is a rule, not only good manners. Read Hawker Centre Etiquette in Singapore: 9 Simple Rules for more.

On the MRT and in queues

Let passengers off the train before you board. Stand on the left of escalators so others can walk past on the right. Offer reserved seats to older people, pregnant women and people with disabilities. Queues are taken seriously, so join the back of the line. Keep phone calls short and quiet. How to Use the MRT in Singapore: A Tourist Guide covers the trains in more detail.

Tipping and paying

Tipping is not expected. Many restaurants add a 10% service charge plus GST, the goods and services tax. Menus often show this as "++" after the price. Hawker stalls do not expect tips.

Respect in what you say

Singapore is home to people of many races and religions. The law treats remarks that insult a race or religion very seriously. Be respectful in what you say and post online.

Visiting temples, mosques and churches

Singapore's places of worship welcome respectful visitors. Popular ones include the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown. Others are the Sultan Mosque in Kampong Glam and St Andrew's Cathedral near City Hall. These are active places of worship, so follow a few simple guidelines:

• Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Some sites lend robes or wraps.
• Take off your shoes where signs or other visitors show you to, often at the entrance.
• Speak quietly and set your phone to silent.
• Ask before you take photos, and never photograph people at prayer without permission.
• Check visiting times, as some areas close to visitors during prayers or services.

For more detail, read Little India Temple Etiquette: What Visitors Should Know.

FAQs about Singapore laws for tourists

Is chewing gum illegal in Singapore?

Chewing it is not a crime, but ordinary gum is not sold and you cannot bring it in. Leave it at home to avoid trouble at customs.

Can tourists vape in Singapore?

No. Vapes and e-cigarettes are illegal for everyone, including tourists. Do not bring one into the country.

Can I drink water on the MRT?

No. Eating and drinking are not allowed on trains or in the paid area of stations. Finish your drink before you tap in.

Do I need to tip in Singapore?

No. Tipping is not expected, and many restaurants already add a service charge.

What should I wear to temples and mosques?

Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes where asked.