Singapore to Bar High-Risk Travelers from Boarding Flights Starting January 30, 2026 – Strengthening Border Security in Singapore

Published on December 5, 2025

Starting on January 30, 2026, Singapore will implement a new policy designed to strengthen its border security. Under this new measure, travelers identified as undesirable or failing to meet Singapore’s entry requirements will be barred from boarding flights bound for the country. This initiative is part of the government’s ongoing effort to preemptively manage border security by preventing potential threats from reaching the country’s shores.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore has confirmed that no-boarding directive (NBD) notices will be issued to airlines, identifying travelers who do not meet entry requirements or who are flagged as high-risk. These notices will provide a proactive approach to border management, helping to streamline security before travelers even arrive at immigration checkpoints.

The Role of the No-Boarding Directive Notices

The NBD notices will serve as an early warning system, allowing airlines to prevent flagged passengers from boarding flights to Singapore. These notices will be issued to both Changi and Seletar airports, ensuring that the country’s borders are protected before travelers reach the country’s immigration counters.

According to ICA, the NBD system will allow authorities to prevent passengers who have been identified through advance traveler information from boarding their flights to Singapore. Travelers who fail to meet key requirements, such as possessing a valid visa or travel documents that are valid for at least six months, will be flagged and prohibited from flying.

This move is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of Singapore’s immigration system by addressing security concerns before travelers even arrive. By leveraging early identification, ICA aims to mitigate the risks associated with high-risk travelers, ensuring a smoother, safer entry process for all visitors.

How the No-Boarding Directives Will Work

The implementation of NBD notices will be carried out by ICA in collaboration with airlines. The notices will be sent to airlines before departure, and once received, airline operators will be required to prevent flagged passengers from boarding. This system ensures that passengers who are considered a security risk or fail to meet entry requirements will be stopped in advance, reducing the need for extensive checks upon arrival.

Airlines will also be required to verify key details such as a valid visa or the completion of the SG Arrival Card (SGAC) before allowing a traveler to board. If a passenger’s details do not meet the necessary criteria, airlines must deny them boarding.

Additionally, the policy will encourage airlines to conduct more stringent checks during the check-in process, providing greater certainty that travelers who make it onto Singapore-bound flights meet all entry requirements. The ICA has briefed airlines to ensure smooth cooperation, and failure to comply with these regulations may result in heavy fines for both airline operators and their staff.

Consequences for Non-Compliance

Airline operators that fail to adhere to the new NBD requirements will face fines of up to $10,000. Similarly, airline employees, including pilots, who are found to be non-compliant with these new rules could face penalties, which include a fine of up to $10,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. These penalties are designed to ensure full cooperation from airlines and to maintain the integrity of Singapore’s border security processes.

In the event that a traveler is denied boarding under the new policy, they will still have the option to seek approval from the ICA to enter the country. However, the individual will be required to contact ICA through the Feedback Channel and gain explicit approval before making arrangements for a new flight. This ensures that travelers who are flagged by the system still have a formal avenue to address any issues or appeal the decision.

Expansion of NBD Notices to Sea Vessels in 2028

Looking ahead, the NBD system will eventually expand to include travelers arriving by sea. Starting in 2028, NBD notices will cover sea-going vessels, preventing individuals who are flagged under the system from entering Singapore via water transport. This extension will further solidify Singapore’s ability to prevent high-risk travelers from entering the country across all modes of transport.

The inclusion of sea-going vessels in the NBD system will help authorities maintain their proactive stance in border security, ensuring that all forms of travel are subject to the same rigorous checks as air travel. As Singapore continues to evolve its border control measures, these additional steps will further strengthen the country’s ability to manage entry requirements and maintain safety.

Impact on Singapore’s Immigration Process

The introduction of NBD notices is a significant step forward in enhancing Singapore’s border security and immigration management. By preventing high-risk individuals from boarding flights to Singapore, the government aims to reduce the likelihood of security threats entering the country. This initiative is expected to streamline the immigration process and allow authorities to focus their attention on travelers who are already on Singapore’s soil.

While the NBD system is primarily aimed at strengthening security, it will also improve the overall travel experience for other passengers. With fewer high-risk travelers arriving at the country’s checkpoints, the flow of travelers through Changi and Seletar airports will become more efficient, reducing delays and enhancing the overall process for legitimate visitors.

The Role of Airlines in Enforcing Travel Security

Airlines will play a crucial role in the successful implementation of the new no-boarding directive system. By ensuring that flagged passengers are prevented from boarding, airlines will directly contribute to Singapore’s efforts to enhance border security and manage travel entry more effectively. The collaboration between ICA and airline operators will be key in making the policy a success, with airlines required to implement additional checks and maintain clear communication with the authorities.

Conclusion: Strengthening Singapore’s Border Security

The implementation of NBD notices starting January 30, 2026, represents a significant step toward enhancing border security in Singapore. By preventing high-risk travelers from boarding flights before they even arrive at immigration, the country is taking a proactive approach to maintaining its safety and security. With the collaboration of airlines, the ICA aims to improve efficiency, prevent potential security threats, and ensure that all travelers entering Singapore meet the necessary requirements. The future expansion of this policy to sea vessels in 2028 further demonstrates Singapore’s commitment to securing its borders and managing the flow of travelers in a comprehensive manner.