Among countries that initially took a zero-tolerance approach toward coronavirus, Singapore has been leading the way when it comes to reopening. The country launched a vaccinated travel lane (VTL) concept in the fall of 2021, whereby vaccinated travelers from select countries could visit Singapore when taking a dedicated flight, in conjunction with testing.
We’ve seen this concept modified multiple times to reflect infection rates, which seems logical enough. Now the country is (almost) fully ripping the band-aid off, and is opening on a widespread basis to vaccinated travelers.
Singapore’s April 2022 tourism reopening
As of April 1, 2022, Singapore will be scrapping its vaccinated travel lane (VTL) concept:
- Fully vaccinated travelers will be allowed to enter the country without quarantine, with just a single pre-travel test taken within two days of flight departure; there’s no need to be boosted
- There will no longer be a need to take a dedicated VTL flight, to travel from only certain countries, or to take a test upon arrival in Singapore
The way I view it, this is a true border reopening for vaccinated travelers, and it’s now easier to enter Singapore than it is to enter the United States (as the USA requires a test within one calendar day of travel). Singapore is even considering scrapping the pre-travel test in the coming weeks.
This move from Singapore comes as we’re seeing many countries in the region suddenly open on a widespread basis, from Indonesia, to Thailand, to Vietnam. This is so fantastic to see, since the VTL concept seemed unnecessarily complicated.
We’ve definitely reached a turning point in the pandemic
I think a year ago many of us wondered if we’d ever reach the point where taking a trip to multiple far-off countries would be possible again, especially with the extent to which Southeast Asia has remained closed. I’m sure I’m not alone in being encouraged (and even thrilled) about the extent to which countries are reopening with limited restrictions.
It’s now once again very much possible to travel to Singapore, and have a stopover while enroute to another country in Southeast Asia, as many of us did pre-pandemic. How exciting!
Bottom line
Singapore will be significantly easing entry requirements as of April 1, 2022. The country is ditching the vaccinated travel lane concept, and will soon welcoming fully vaccinated visitors from around the globe. There will no longer be a need to take a dedicated flight or to get tested upon arrival.
What do you make of Singapore simplifying entry requirements?
(Tip of the hat to SINJim)
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