Guide updated: August 5, 2026. Requirements reflect guidelines published by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore.
For the Singapore Arrival Card, UAE citizens must submit this mandatory electronic form online within 3 days before arrival. While UAE passport holders enjoy 30-day visa-free entry to Singapore, the SGAC is required to board your flight and clear immigration at Changi Airport.
At a Glance:
- ✅ Visa-free entry for UAE citizens: up to 30 days
- ✅ Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC): submit online within 3 days before arrival
- ✅ Free of charge via the ICA e-Service portal
- ❌ Without the SGAC, airlines may deny boarding
Visa-Free Entry for UAE Citizens and the Role of the Singapore Electronic Arrival Card
UAE passport holders enter Singapore visa-free for up to 30 days, but must submit the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) regardless of visa-free status. The SGAC’s full formal name is SG Arrival Card with Electronic Health Declaration. It combines a customs declaration and an electronic health declaration into one mandatory electronic form for all travelers entering Singapore in 2026.
UAE citizens need no tourist visa, no visa on arrival stamp, and no invitation letter. The SGAC is valid for a single trip only; each entry into Singapore requires a new submission. This digital traveller declaration replaced the former paper landing card and disembarkation card. The electronic arrival card is the SGAC’s common synonym.
Who Must Submit the SGAC?
According to ICA, the SGAC is mandatory for all traveler categories: Singapore Citizens, Permanent Residents, Pass Holders, and Visitors. UAE passport holders fall under the Visitor category and must submit before every entry into Singapore. UAE residents holding non-UAE passports should check visa requirements via the ICA e-Service portal.
How to Submit the SGAC: Step-by-Step Guide for UAE Visitors
Submit your SGAC at the ICA e-Service portal within 3 days before arrival, including the day of arrival. The process takes 5 to 10 minutes.
- Access the ICA e-Service portal at eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/
- Enter personal details: full name, date of birth, nationality, gender
- Input passport data: passport number and expiry date
- Provide flight details: flight number (e.g., Emirates), arrival date, airline
- Enter Singapore accommodation address and purpose of visit
- Complete the electronic health declaration: countries visited in the last 14 days, current symptoms, vaccination status
- Submit and save the email confirmation receipt
Required Fields in the SGAC Form
Have your UAE passport, flight number, and Singapore hotel address ready before starting. The form collects personal particulars, passport data, flight and itinerary information, accommodation details, purpose of visit, and a health and contact declaration covering recent travel history and current symptoms.
Submitting via the MyICA Mobile App
UAE visitors can also submit through the MyICA Mobile App, available on iOS and Android. The app connects to the same ICA e-Service system. After arrival, travelers can search their e-Pass record and check entry visa requirements via the portal.
Entry Requirements for UAE Passport Holders: Complete Checklist
Passport validity, a completed SGAC, and supporting documents are required for entry. UAE citizens do not need a visa or invitation letter.
- ✅ Valid UAE passport with at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay
- ✅ Completed SGAC submitted within 3 days before arrival
- ✅ Return or onward ticket (proof of departure within 30 days)
- ✅ Proof of sufficient funds (credit card or bank statement)
- ✅ Accommodation proof (hotel reservation or host address)
- ❌ No visa required
- ❌ No invitation letter needed
- ❌ No visa on arrival stamp required
SGAC for Transit Passengers at Changi Airport
Transit passengers who clear immigration at Changi Airport must submit the SGAC. Learn more about transit passengers and the SGAC for full details. Airside-only transit passengers who do not pass border control are exempt. This is relevant for Emirates passengers with Singapore stopovers en route to Australia or Southeast Asia.
What Happens If You Don’t Submit the Singapore Electronic Arrival Card?
Airlines like Emirates and Singapore Airlines verify SGAC status at check-in for all flights to Singapore. Without a completed submission, you may be denied boarding at your departure airport. If allowed to fly, on-site completion at ICA kiosks in Changi Airport adds 20 to 30 minutes during peak hours.
Under the Singapore Immigration Act, omitting the SGAC can result in entry refusal or financial penalties. Without the digital submission, officers must process your entry manually.
Submit the SGAC early. It is free and takes only 5 minutes via the ICA e-Service portal.
Key Facts UAE Travelers Should Know About the SGAC
Key facts every Emirati traveler should know: the SGAC is free of charge, valid for a single trip only, and UAE citizens can extend their 30-day stay up to 89 days via ICA e-Service.
Is the SGAC Free of Charge?
Yes, completely free via the ICA e-Service portal. Read more about Singapore Arrival Card cost and third-party charges. Any website charging $15 to $50 for SGAC processing is an unauthorized intermediary and should be avoided. The only legitimate submission portal is eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/.
SGAC Confirmation at the Airport
After submission, you receive an email confirmation receipt from ICA; screenshot it or save it on your phone. Airlines verify SGAC at departure check-in. Singapore immigration confirms your status digitally using your passport number and biometrics, so a printed copy is optional but helpful for troubleshooting.
How to Avoid SGAC Scams
Fake portals charge $15 to $50 for free processing. Learn how to spot fake SGAC services and protect your money. Phishing emails and SMS messages claim “SGAC expired, click here.” Only submit through the ICA e-Service portal at eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/.
Can UAE Citizens Extend Their 30-Day Stay?
Yes, up to 89 days total. Apply via ICA e-Service under “Apply to Extend Stay.” Requirements: valid reason, proof of financial means. Processing takes approximately 3 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UAE citizens need a visa to visit Singapore in 2026?
No. UAE passport holders enter visa-free for up to 30 days but must submit the SGAC before arrival.
How long can UAE passport holders stay without a visa?
Up to 30 days per visit with a confirmed return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
How do I submit the Singapore Electronic Arrival Card?
Visit eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/, enter your details, flight info, accommodation, and health declaration. Takes 5 to 10 minutes.
When should I submit the Singapore Arrival Card?
Within 3 days before arrival in Singapore, including the day of arrival.
What information do I need for the SGAC form?
Full name, passport number, expiry date, flight number, arrival date, Singapore address, and health declaration.
Is the Singapore Arrival Card free?
Yes. Completely free via the ICA e-Service portal. Avoid third-party sites charging $15 to $50.
How long is my SGAC valid?
Single trip only. Each entry into Singapore requires a new SGAC submission.
Can I use the SGAC for transit through Singapore?
Only if you clear immigration. Airside-only transit passengers do not need the SGAC.
What common mistakes should I avoid?
Incorrect passport details, expired passport, or submitting after the 3-day window.
Do children and infants from the UAE need the SGAC?
Yes. Parents or guardians must submit the SGAC on their behalf before the flight.
