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<p>Dear Industry Partners,</p><p> </p><p>1 With the easing of Covid-19 border measures, tours and travels have resumed gradually in recent months. Singapore Customs would like to take the opportunity to update you on the Customs formalities and clearance procedures for inbound travellers and seek your co-operation to disseminate the information to your customers (i.e. travellers) for their compliance on their arrival in Singapore. You may consider doing so via your tour publicity materials or pre-tour briefings etc.</p><p>2 All arriving travellers including foreign visitors and returning residents are required to declare and pay the duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) to bring in dutiable and GST payable goods exceeding their duty-free concession and GST import relief.</p><p>3 Travellers are granted GST import relief on new articles, souvenirs, gifts and food preparations (excluding intoxicating liquors, tobacco and goods imported for commercial purposes) brought into Singapore for their personal use or consumption. The relief amount is based on the value of goods the traveller brings in, and the duration that the traveller has spent outside Singapore. Travellers will have to pay GST on the value of the goods which is in excess of the GST import relief granted to them. You may refer to the Frequently Asked Questions at Annex A for more information.</p><p><strong>GST Import Relief*</strong></p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Time Spent Away from Singapore</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Value of Goods Granted GST Relief</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">48 hours or more</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Up to S$500</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Less than 48 hours</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Up to S$100</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>*Holders of a work permit, employment pass, student pass, dependent pass or long-term pass issued by the Singapore Government are not entitled to GST import relief.</p><p>4 Travellers are entitled to duty-free concession for liquors if the qualifying conditions are met. There is no duty-free concession and GST relief for all cigarettes and tobacco products brought into Singapore.</p><p><strong>Liquor Duty-Free Concession**</strong></p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Options</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Spirits</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Wine</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Beer</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">A</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">B</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">C</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">D</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">2 Litres</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">E</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">2 Litres</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>**There is no duty-free concession on liquors for travellers arriving from Malaysia.</p><p>5 For convenience, travellers are encouraged to make an advance declaration and payment of the GST and/or duty using the Customs@SG web application. Alternatively, travellers can declare and pay the GST and/or duty for their goods at the Customs Tax Payment Office. Travellers are advised to keep the receipts of their overseas purchases to facilitate the computation and verification of tax payable in Singapore.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Annex A</strong></p><p><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></p><p><strong>Q1. Why do I need to pay GST on my overseas purchases?</strong></p><p>A1. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax on the supply of goods and services in Singapore and on the importation of goods into Singapore. This means that GST is levied on goods supplied in Singapore, whether or not they are bought overseas or locally. The imposition of GST on goods imported into Singapore has been in force since 1 April 1994 when GST was implemented in Singapore. The practice is consistent with countries that levy a GST (also known as Value-Added Tax in some countries). All goods, whether from commercial shipments (i.e. shipping of goods) or hand-carried by travellers, are subject to GST at the prevailing rate.</p><p><strong>Q2. If I were to buy a branded bag for S$2,000 while holidaying overseas, and were to start using it during the trip, do I have to pay GST when I bring the bag home? If so, how is the GST computed?</strong></p><p>A2. Yes, the bag is subject to the prevailing GST rate of 8 per cent. If you have been away from Singapore for more than 48 hours, you will be entitled to a GST import relief amount of S$500. Therefore, the amount of GST that you will have to pay is S$120 [S$(2,000 - 500) x 8 per cent]. If you have been away from Singapore for less than 48 hours, you will be entitled to a GST import relief amount of S$100. Therefore, the amount of GST that you will have to pay is S$152 [S$(2,000 - 100) x 8 per cent].</p><p><strong>Q3. If I were to remove the price tag/packaging and use an item bought overseas immediately, is the item still subject to GST? Can it be considered a used article or personal belongings where GST import relief is granted?</strong></p><p>A3. The item in question is not considered as "used articles and personal belongings" and GST is payable if the value exceeds the GST import relief amount granted.</p><p><strong>Q4. If I already paid sales tax for an item purchased overseas and I did not claim tax refund, do I still have to pay GST?</strong></p><p>A4. GST is applicable on all items brought into Singapore regardless of whether foreign sales tax was paid for the item overseas, or whether the traveller has claimed tax refund for the item.</p><p><strong>Q5. If I were to receive a gift while overseas, how is the tax calculated since I will not have a receipt and will not be able to estimate the value of the gift?</strong></p><p>A5. If the receipt is not available, the value of the goods will be assessed based on the value of identical or similar goods when computing the GST payable.</p><p> </p><p>For more information, please refer to the following links.</p><ul><li>Customs Guide for Travellers: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/guide-for-travellers/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/guide-for-travellers/</a></li><li>Customs@SG Web Application: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/eservices/customs-sg-web-application/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/eservices/customs-sg-web-application/</a></li><li>Duty-Free Concession and GST Import Relief: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/duty-free-concession-and-gst-relief/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/duty-free-concession-and-gst-relief/</a></li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of the Singapore Customs,</strong></p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agent, </p><p> </p><p>On 8 April 2020, in response to the Covid-19 crisis, STB amended the Travel Agents Regulations 2017 (TAR) to:</p><p>a) Reduce the minimum net value requirement by 90%; and</p><p>b) Allow the submission of Auditor Certified Accounts (CAs) in lieu of Audited Statement of Accounts (AA).</p><p> </p><p>2 With the protracted Covid situation, these requirements were extended twice, in December 2020 and December 2021.</p><p> </p><p>3 With the reopening of borders, travel volume has seen a gradual recovery. As such, STB will be adjusting the minimum net value requirement accordingly. As such, </p><p>a) With effect from 1 January 2023, the reduction in the minimum net value requirement will be adjusted to 60%, or $40,000 for general licensees and $20,000 for niche licensees up to 31 December 2023. </p><p>b) However, you may continue to submit Auditor Certified Accounts (CAs) (reported in accordance with the <a href="https://isca.org.sg/standards-guidance/audit-assurance/standards-and-guidance/singapore-standards-on-review-engagements-(ssres)">Singapore Standard on Review Engagement - SSRE 2400</a> by an independent auditor) in lieu of AA for the financial year ending on or after 1 March 2023.</p><p> </p><p>4 You will be given <strong>until 30 June 2023 </strong>to do any necessary top-ups to meet the revised requirement mentioned in para 3(a) above. </p><p> </p><p>5 These measures will be reviewed and amended further, in accordance with the pace of tourism recovery. </p><p> </p><p>6 Please refer to the attachment below to read the full subsidiary legislation supplement. Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Electronic Gazette website <a href="http://www.egazette.com.sg/gazetteViewDetail.aspx?ct=sls&subscriber=0">here</a> and click on "Travel Agents Act 1975 - Travel Agents (Amendment) Regulations 2022".</p><p> </p><p>7 For any queries, please contact STB at <a href="stb_ta@stb.gov.sg">stb_ta@stb.gov.sg</a>. Thank you.</p><p> </p>
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<p>The Ministry of Health (MOH) advises travellers to take the following preventive measures when travelling to the Middle East region.</p><p> </p><p><strong>PRE-TRAVEL PREPARATIONS</strong></p><ul><li>Consult your healthcare provider prior to travel.</li><li>Check on vaccination requirements and take all required vaccines.</li><li>Be up-to-date with vaccinations in the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) or National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and routine vaccines.</li><li>Be aware of the situation in countries you intend to travel to.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS</strong></p><p>Travellers are advised to check the entry requirements imposed by the countries they intend to travel to. Travellers are also recommended to be up-to-date with vaccinations in the NAIS or NCIS.</p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Vaccine</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Vaccination details</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><i>Requirement</i></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">COVID-19 vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Entry requirement to some countries in the Middle East region<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>.</p><p>COVID-19 vaccination is free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents in Singapore. The vaccination is especially important for the elderly and other vulnerable groups (e.g. pregnant women, persons with comorbidities) as they are at high risk of severe disease. For more information on COVID-19 vaccination, please visit <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs">https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs</a>.</p></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><i>Recommended</i></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Influenza vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Recommended in the NAIS and NCIS for children aged 6 months to below 5 years, adults aged 65 years and older, and persons aged 5 to 64 years with certain medical conditions or indications. All other travellers may also consider getting the influenza vaccination prior to travel.</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Pneumococcal vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Recommended in the NAIS and NCIS for children below 5 years of age, adults aged 65 years and older, and persons aged 5 to 64 years with certain medical conditions.</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Routine vaccines</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Other nationally recommended vaccinations include <strong>measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) and varicella</strong> vaccinations (for children and adults), and <strong>diphtheria and polio</strong> vaccinations (for children).</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><p>Subsidies are available for eligible Singaporeans for nationally recommended vaccinations. Please consult your doctor for further advice regarding the above vaccinations or on other travel-related vaccinations prior to travel.</p><p>For more information on nationally recommended vaccinations, please visit the HealthHub at: <a href="https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate ">https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate </a></p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><br><strong>GENERAL HEALTH ADVICE</strong></p><ul><li>Observe good personal hygiene at all times.</li><li>Practise frequent hand washing (e.g. before handling food or eating, after going to toilet, or when hands are soiled).</li><li>Adopt good food safety and hygiene practices and avoid consuming raw and unpasteurised milk, undercooked meats, or food prepared under unsanitary conditions, and properly washing fruits and vegetables before eating them.</li><li>Avoid close contact with persons who are unwell, such as those suffering from respiratory infections.</li><li>Avoid contact with camels and other animals, including not visiting camel farms. If contact has been made, thoroughly wash hands with soap.</li><li>Avoid visiting healthcare institutions in the Middle East unless it is necessary to do so as part of accessing medical care.</li><li>Travellers are advised to wear masks (i.e. surgical masks) especially when in crowded places.</li><li>Wear a surgical mask and seek medical attention promptly if you become unwell while travelling or within 2 weeks after returning to Singapore, and inform the doctor of your travel history.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>OTHER HEALTH ALERT(S)</strong></p><p><strong>Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)</strong></p><p>Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is viral illness caused by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Since 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded more than 2600 cases of MERS-CoV infection in 27 countries, mainly in the Middle East region<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a>. Majority of the cases were reported in Saudi Arabia, with recent cases in 2022 reported in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman.</p><p>Symptoms of MERS-CoV infection include fever, cough and shortness of breath. MERS-CoV infection may result in severe illness and complications, such as pneumonia, and death occurs in about a third of infected individuals. The virus is present in infected dromedary camels, and can spread to humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. It may also spread through close contact with infected persons.</p><p>For the latest update on the Health Advisory, please refer to <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/novel-coronavirus-infection-(mers-cov)">https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/novel-coronavirus-infection-(mers-cov)</a></p><p> </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> Please visit MFA’s website for details on the prevailing requirements for entry into the different countries: <a href="https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Where-Are-You-Travelling-To ">https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Where-Are-You-Travelling-To </a></p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> For the latest update, please refer to WHO’s website at: <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-mers">https://www.who.int/health-topics/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-mers</a></p><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of the Ministry of Health (MOH),</strong></p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners, </p><p> </p><p>The Sri Mariamman Temple, located at No. 244 South Bridge Road, is one of the Temples administered by the Hindu Endowments Board which is under the purview of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. </p><p>Being a National Monument, the Temple has a large flow of devotees and tourists visiting the Temple daily. This year, the annual Fire Walking Ceremony will be held on Sunday, 16 October 2022. The preceding ceremonies will commence from 30 September 2022 to 17 October 2022. </p><p>During the period of the ceremonies, large congregations of more than 3000 devotees are expected to patronize the Temple daily. Due to the large number of participating devotees, it would not be possible for tourists to visit the Temple. As such, we would appreciate it if you could advice the tour operators to avoid bringing tourists to the Temple from 30 September 2022 to 17 October 2022. </p><p> </p><p>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of Sri Mariamman Temple,</strong></p><p>Tour & Industry Development Team</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agent</p><p> </p><p>The Singapore Tourism Board is pleased to announce the roll-out of the digital version of your Travel Agent licence with effect from today. </p><p>From 15 September 2022, travel agents who have renewed their licence for 2023/2024 or updated your business details will be issued your new licence via TRUST. </p><p>Find out more about the new Travel Agent licence by clicking the links below and follow the steps to download and display your licence at your place of business.</p><p><strong>If you are due for licence renewal in 2023, your existing licence will remain valid and does not need to be converted.</strong></p><p>Please do not hesitate to contact us at <a href="mailto:stb_ta@stb.gov.sg">stb_ta@stb.gov.sg</a>, should you require more information. </p><p> </p><p>Yours Faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division<br>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents,</p><p>As part of the STB’s efforts to go digital and expedite licence issuance to travel agents, STB will be transiting towards the issuance of the Travel Agent licence in a downloadable digital format via TRUST from 15 September 2022. </p><p>Click on the infographic (as attached) to find out what you can expect. More information will be shared in the coming weeks. Please stay tuned.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p>Regards<br>Travel Agent Licensing and Regulatory Review Department</p>
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<p>On 24 Aug 2022, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced further easing of Safe Management Measures (SMMs). In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. Please refer to key updates below. </p><p>With effect from 29 Aug 2022:</p><ul><li>Mask-wearing is mandatory only on public transport (i.e. on MRT/LRT and public buses) and indoor public transport facilities (e.g. boarding areas at bus interchanges and MRT platforms). Tour buses are exempted from mask-wearing.<br> </li><li>For tours that involve entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) such as F&B establishments<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, vaccination status checks are not required. The onus is on the individuals to abide by the rules, where he/she must be:<br><br><ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4];</a></li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li></ul><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL). Individuals may check whether they are considered "fully vaccinated" at <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs---post-vaccination-matters">https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs---post-vaccination-matters</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2010 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. In addition, from 15 March 2022, unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth) need not be from the same household to be included within a group entering premises or participating in activities with VDS.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.<br>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tour Operators and Tourist Guides,</p><p> </p><p>We are pleased to provide some additional heritage resources kindly provided by NLB:</p><p> </p><p><strong>Places and Stories - Collection of historical write-ups, presented as stories, for tourist guides, grouped by regions in Singapore</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAFBrdqQ0Rk/Vili0ZEdzdBWLAfQa4MB2w/view?utm_content=DAFBrdqQ0Rk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink">Places & Stories (canva.com)</a></p><p>This presentation is for Tourist Guides who are seeking to deepen and broaden their knowledge on interesting events at various tourist sites.</p><p>The collection of stories is specially curated by NLB’s librarians, with references to resources where more details and photographs can be obtained. It is useful for Tourist Guides to help give their tourists a more varied and nostalgic experience during their tours.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Collections and Services in National Library / National Archives</strong></p><p><i>Collections Guide (See Attached)</i></p><p>This presentation is for Tourist Guides who are looking for additional resources to do research on the history and culture of different tourist sites.</p><p>The presentation gives details on how to access the various online and on-site materials available to tourist guides and members of the public for research purposes, including location of resources, short summaries of resources, and any applicable fees. A summary of the resources can be found on page 39.</p><p> </p><p>Do also check out the <a href="https://curiocity.nlb.gov.sg/">Curiocity</a> website for more heritage materials.</p><p> </p><p>Yours Faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tour Operators and Tourist Guides,</p><p>The Virtual Tours Guide (as attached) is for industry practitioners who are considering embarking on virtual tours to expand their product offerings to reach a wider audience.</p><p>This Guide puts forth the opportunities and considerations of conducting virtual tours and helps industry practitioners to determine how virtual tours can be relevant for their businesses even as borders reopen and international travel resumes.</p><p>Yours faithfully,<br> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division<br>Singapore Tourism Board</p><p> </p>
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<p>On 22 Apr 2022, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced further easing of Safe Management Measures (SMMs). In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. Please refer to key updates below. </p><p>With effect from 26 Apr 2022:</p><ul><li>Tour size and group size limits are removed for all tours.<br> </li><li>Safe distancing is not required and intermingling is allowed for all tours.<br> </li><li>For tours with mask-off activities (such as F&B components or those which involve sports or physical exercise), participants are required to wear their masks after the mask-off activities if they continue to remain indoors, including on conveyances.<br> </li><li>For tours that involve entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) such as F&B establishments<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, vaccination status checks are not required. The onus is on the individuals to abide by the rules, where he/she must be:<br><br><ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4];</a></li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li></ul><p>With effect from 1 May 2022:</p><ul><li>Submission of tours re-opening data to be made on the 2nd of every month. <br><br> </li></ul><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL). Individuals may check whether they are considered "fully vaccinated" at <a href="https://go.gov.sg/vax-status-query">https://go.gov.sg/vax-status-query</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2009 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. In addition, from 15 March 2022, unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below (i.e. born in 2010 or later) need not be from the same household to be included within a group entering premises or participating in activities with VDS.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.<br>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>On 24 March 2022, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced it would ease Safe Management Measures (SMMs) and make further progress towards living with COVID-19. In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. Please refer to key updates below. </p><p>With effect from 29 March 2022: </p><ul><li>Changes to the tour size limit and Safe Management Measures (SMMs) are summarised in the following table.</li></ul><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Types of Tours</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Tour Size Limit</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Remarks</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Tours with<strong> mask-on</strong> <strong>activities</strong> <strong>throughout</strong><br><br>Examples: City tours on coach buses, walking tours without F&B components</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Nil</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Safe distancing is not required and intermingling is allowed when masks are on. </td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Tours that involve <strong>mask-off activities (indoors)</strong></p><p> </p><p>Examples: Tours which include F&B components</p></td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Max 30 participants</td><td rowspan="2"><p>At least 1 metre safe distance between groups of up to 10 pax is <strong>required</strong> when masks are not worn. Intermingling between different groups is <strong>disallowed</strong> when masks are not worn.</p><p> </p><p>Safe distancing is not required and intermingling is allowed once masks are worn after the mask-off activities.</p></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Tours that involve <strong>mask-off activities (outdoors)</strong> </p><p> </p><p>Examples: Tours which involve sports or physical exercise such as cycling and kayaking tours</p></td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Max 50 participants</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><ul><li>For tours that involve i) entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS), ii) F&B components<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>10 </strong>pax, regardless of whether they are from the same household. <br><br><ul><li>All individuals within such tours must be<ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4];</a></li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li><li>For tours that involve F&B components at establishments that are not able to administer comprehensive VDS, the dine-in group size is capped at 5. Participants may only revert to their earlier groupings of up to 10 after leaving the establishment or else remain in the same groupings of 5.<br> </li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve i) entry into settings with VDS, ii) any F&B components, or iii) activities where masks are not worn, there is no maximum group size.<br> </li></ul><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL). Individuals may check whether they are considered "fully vaccinated" at <a href="https://go.gov.sg/vax-status-query">https://go.gov.sg/vax-status-query</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2009 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. In addition, from 15 March 2022, unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below (i.e. born in 2010 or later) need not be from the same household to be included within a group entering premises or participating in activities with VDS.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents and Tourist Guides,<br> </p><p>With effect from 1 Apr 2022, Singapore is reopening to all fully vaccinated* travellers without quarantine — simply present a negative pre-departure test upon arrival. </p><p><i>*Fully vaccinated visitors and non-fully vaccinated children aged 12 and below will be allowed to enter Singapore.</i></p><p> </p><p>Attached is a quick guide through infographics. </p><p>For more information, please visit <a href="https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/arriving/overview">https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/arriving/overview</a>. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,<br> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>On 11 March 2022, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced it would resume our transition to resilience and proceed to simplify and streamline Safe Management Measures (SMMs). In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>In line with the streamlining of SMMs, with effect from 15 March 2022, tour operators and tourist guides can resume tour operations without submitting an application to the Singapore Tourism Board ("STB") for assessment and subsequently, receive an approval letter from the Ministry of Trade and Industry ("MTI").</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. Please refer to key updates below. </p><p> </p><p>With effect from 15 March 2022: </p><ul><li>Tour operators and tourist guides are <strong>not required</strong> to submit an application to the Singapore Tourism Board ("STB") for assessment and subsequently, receive an approval letter from the Ministry of Trade and Industry ("MTI") in order to resume tour operations.</li><li>Changes to the tour size limit and Safe Management Measures (SMMs) are summarised in the following table.</li></ul><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Types of Tours</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Revised Tour Size Limit</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>At least 1-metre Safe Distancing (1M SD)</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Fully mask-on</strong> activities throughout the tours<br><br>Examples: Conveyance-assisted tours and walking tours <strong>without</strong> F&B components</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Nil</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Not required</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Tours that involve <strong>mask-off activities (indoors)</strong></p><p> </p><p>Examples: Tours which include F&B components</p></td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Max 30 participants</td><td rowspan="2"><p>1M SD between groups of up to 5 pax is <strong>required</strong> when engaging in mask-off activities. No intermingling between groups is allowed when masks are off. Tour can resume without 1M SD after mask-off activities.</p><p> </p><p>Participants wear their masks immediately after the mask-off activities have concluded. </p></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Tours that involve <strong>mask-off activities (outdoors)</strong> </p><p> </p><p>Examples: Tours which involve sports and physical exercise e.g. cycling and kayaking tours</p></td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Max 50 participants</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><ul><li>For tours that involve i) entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS), ii) F&B components<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>5</strong> pax, regardless of whether they are from the same household. <br><br><ul><li>All individuals within such tours must be<ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (i.e. born in or after 2010)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4];</a></li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li><li>For tours that involve F&B components at hawker centres and coffee shops that are not able to administer comprehensive VDS, the dine-in group size is capped at 2. Participants must revert to their earlier groupings of up to 5 after leaving the hawker centre or coffee shop or else remain in the same groupings of 2.<br> </li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve i) entry into settings with VDS, ii) any F&B components, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, ensure that the maximum number of participants in a group within each such tour is capped at <strong>5</strong> pax, regardless of vaccination status or whether they are from the same household.<br> </li></ul><p>Please be reminded to comply with all the safe management measures, including those from other relevant agencies. For more information, please refer to <a href="https://www.gobusiness.gov.sg/safemanagement/general/">https://www.gobusiness.gov.sg/safemanagement/general/</a> for all latest advisories across various sectors.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines">World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing</a> (WHO EUL). Individuals may check whether they are considered "fully vaccinated" at <a href="https://go.gov.sg/vax-status-query">https://go.gov.sg/vax-status-query</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2009 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. Children born in 2009 who will turn 13 in 2022 will need to be fully vaccinated to enter venues and participate in activities with VDS from 1 March 2022 (instead of 1 January 2022). From 1 March 2022, the concession for children will only be extended to those born in or after the year 2010. In addition, from 15 March 2022, unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below (i.e. born in 2010 or later) need not be from the same household to be included within a group entering premises or participating in activities with VDS.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>On 30 December 2021, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) released a joint advisory with Enterprise Singapore (ESG), Housing & Development Board (HDB), Singapore Food Agency (SFA) and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) to update the Safe Management Measures (SMMs) at Food & Beverage Establishments, Retail Establishments and Lifestyle-Related Services. In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><p>With effect from 1 January 2022: </p><ul><li>For tours that involve i) entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS), ii) F&B components<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>5</strong> pax, regardless of whether they are from the same household. <br><br><ul><li>All individuals within such tours must be<ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (i.e. born in or after 2009)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4], </a>and if there are 2 or more such children in the group, the children must be from the same household; or</li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li><li>For tours that involve F&B components at hawker centres and coffee shops that are not able to administer comprehensive VDS, the dine-in group size is capped at 2. Participants must revert to their earlier groupings of up to 5 after leaving the hawker centre or coffee shop or else remain in the same groupings of 2.<br> </li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve i) entry into settings with VDS, ii) any F&B components, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, ensure that the maximum number of participants in a group within each such tour is capped at <strong>5</strong> pax, regardless of vaccination status or whether they are from the same household.<br> </li></ul><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines">World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing</a> (WHO EUL). For more information, refer to <a href="https://file.go.gov.sg/vdsmminfo.pdf">MOH’s information sheet on the requirements for VDS</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. Those who have recovered from COVID-19 and will exceed the 180-day period as at 1 January 2022, but have yet to be fully vaccinated, will be given until 31 January 2022 to complete their primary vaccination regime, so as to be able to enter VDS settings. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2009 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. Children born in 2009 who will turn 13 in 2022 will need to be fully vaccinated to enter venues and participate in activities with VDS from 1 March 2022 (instead of 1 January 2022). From 1 March 2022, the concession for children will only be extended to those born in or after the year 2010.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document(s).</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents and Tourist Guides</p><p> </p><p>To ensure a safe working environment, businesses must adhere to sector-specific safe management measures. Attached is a list of infographics for ease of reference:</p><ul><li>Annex A - Summary of relevant latest measures</li><li>Annex B - Reminder on handling inbound travellers</li></ul><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you.</p><p> </p><p>[Information updated as of 7 Jan 2022]</p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear stakeholders, </p><p> </p><p>With the high incidence of COVID-19 cases across the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) countries, you may be receiving queries from concerned incoming travellers seeking advice on Singapore’s travel guidelines. You may refer to the ICA SafeTravel website for the latest guidelines for <a href="https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/travel-checklist/overview/">incoming travellers</a>, including returning Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents.</p><p>Please be reminded that based on the current guidelines, travellers <strong>must</strong> defer their travel to Singapore if they:</p><ul><li>Have COVID-19 symptoms;</li><li>Are diagnosed or suspected to have contracted COVID-19 in the last 14 days before departing for Singapore; or</li><li>Had been in close contact with a COVID-19 positive patient in the last 7 days before departing for Singapore. This includes the provision of care for a COVID-19 patient in a healthcare or family/social setting, staying in the same location as a COVID-19 patient, or had been in close (i.e. less than two meters) contact with a COVID-19 patient for more than 15 minutes.</li></ul><p>In addition, all incoming travellers should be advised to declare truthfully on their SG Arrival Card with electronic Health Declaration (SGAC/eHDC). <strong>Travellers who are subsequently found to have made a false declaration on their SGAC/eHDC will be liable for prosecution under the Infectious Disease Act (IDA).</strong></p><p>For more information, please refer to <a href="https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/arriving/overview">https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/arriving/overview</a>.</p><p>Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. </p><p> </p><p>[Information updated as of 6 January 2022.]</p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear stakeholders,</p><p>With more employees returning to the workplace from 1 Jan 2022, there could be higher risk of workplace transmission, particularly given the higher transmissibility of the Omicron variant. Regular testing is therefore important to ensure early detection and ringfencing of cases at the workplace. To support this practice, the Government is undertaking a second round of ART kit distribution which eligible companies can apply for. The application period is open until 31 Jan 2022.</p><p>For more information on the time-limited 8-weeks RRT for workplaces, please refer to this <a href="https://www.gobusiness.gov.sg/timelimitedrrt/">website</a>.</p><p> </p><p><strong>FAQs</strong></p><p><strong>Q</strong>: <strong>Which companies are eligible to apply for kits? </strong></p><p>A: Companies with fully vaccinated* employees who work onsite and who are not already subject to the Government's mandatory PCR or FET RRT regime, may apply for 8 ART kits per onsite fully vaccinated employee for weekly testing over a two-month period. This includes full-time, part-time employees, interns or vendors who will return to office at least once a week over a 2-month period. </p><p><i>*Including employees who are (i) certified to be medically ineligible, or (ii) unvaccinated and recovered from COVID-19 infection within 180 days as of 31 Mar 2022.</i></p><p><strong>Q: Why is it that only fully vaccinated employees are eligible for the free ART kits? </strong></p><p>A: Non-fully vaccinated staff are already subject to MOM’s Workforce Vaccination Measures from 1 Jan 2022, where they have to pay for their own PET before returning to the workplace. They will therefore <strong>not</strong> be eligible for the free ART kits issued by the Government to workplaces. From 15 Jan 2022, this concession for non-fully vaccinated persons to return to the workplace even with a negative PET result will also be removed i.e. they will not be allowed to return to office at all.</p><p><strong>Q: I applied for the first round of kits distribution in Sep 2021. Am I still eligible to apply for this second round of kits distribution</strong></p><p>A: Yes, your company may still apply for the ART kits for the employees who fulfil the eligibility criteria. However, the Government reserves the right to reject applications from non-compliant companies that applied for and received the first round of kits distribution, including those that did not submit or were late in submitting their results declaration. Companies are therefore reminded to submit their results declaration on time and produce the proof of documents as necessary if audited.</p><p> </p><p>[Information updated as of 5 Jan 2022]</p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tour Operators and Tourist Guides,</p><p>Please note that in view of the emergence of the Omicron variant of concern, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has implemented the following additional safe management measures (SMMs) for SZH-licensed pleasure craft with effect from 15 Dec 2021: </p><ol><li>Only fully vaccinated tour participants[1] are allowed onboard the pleasure craft. Unvaccinated passengers (other than recovered individuals, <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sgnews-highlightsdetailscalibrated-adjustments-in-stabilisation-phase_8nov2021/">medically ineligible individuals</a>, or children aged 12 years and below[2]) are not allowed to board the craft. Owner/operators of SZH-licensed pleasure craft must check the status of such individuals; and</li><li>If more than one group of 5 tour participants[3] will be on board the pleasure craft, all participants must undergo ART or <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/statistics/pet">PET</a>[4] prior to commencement of the charter. </li></ol><p>For more information, please refer to <a href="https://www.mpa.gov.sg/web/portal/home/port-of-singapore/craft-licensing-and-port-clearance/safe-management-measures-for-pleasure-craft">MPA’s website on safe management measures for pleasure craft</a>. </p><p> </p><p>[1] An individual is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after he or she has received two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech/ Comirnaty, Moderna, or any vaccines in the World Health Organisation’s Emergency Use Listing such as Sinovac-CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and AstraZeneca.</p><p>[2] Unvaccinated children aged 12 years old and below can be included in groups of 5 persons as long as they are all from the same household.</p><p>[3] If more than 1 group but only participants from the same household are onboard, they may be exempted from the ART or PET requirement.</p><p>[4] Tour participants will be required to present the PET results on the TraceTogether/HealthHub Application or hard copy results for verification. </p><p> </p><p><strong>FAQs</strong></p><p><strong>Q: How will these additional SMMs affect tour operators and tourist guides?</strong></p><p>A: Tour operators and tourist guides conducting boat tours are encouraged to work with pleasure craft operators to ensure that these additional SMMs are adhered to. This includes requiring tour participants to undergo ART or PET prior to commencement of the charter. </p><p><strong>Q: Can the tour participants perform the ART self-test at home? </strong></p><p>A: No, the ART self-test has to be performed on-site in the presence of a third party such as a tour operator, tourist guide or boat crew member. </p><p>Tour operators and tourist guides are reminded to work with the pleasure craft operators to</p><ul><li>Allow tour participants to carry out the self-tests in a well-ventilated area and maintain 1m safe-distancing;</li><li>Ensure that the ART results are documented (e.g., in digital or physical format) and the kits are properly disposed of.</li></ul><p>For more information on how to use the ART kits, please refer to this <a href="https://ask.gov.sg/questions/507">website</a>. </p><p><strong>Q: What documents are tour participants required to show if they are undergoing PET? </strong></p><p>A: Tour participants will be required to present the PET results on the TraceTogether/HealthHub Application or hard copy results for verification. Please be reminded that the validity of a negative COVID-19 test result is 24 hours from the time the tour participant was registered at the testing premises to take the tests. For more information on PET, please refer to this <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/statistics/pet">website</a>. </p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>[Information updated as of 20 December 2021]</p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>On 20 November 2021, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced calibrated adjustments to Safe Management Measures (SMMs) for the Transition Phase. In line with this, the Singapore Tourism Board ("STB") has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p> </p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><p> </p><ul><li>With effect from 22 November 2021:<ul><li>For tours that involve i) entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS), ii) F&B components<a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a>, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>5</strong> pax, regardless of whether they are from the same household.<ul><li>All individuals within such tours must be<ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a>;</li><li>children aged 12 years and below<a href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a>; or</li><li>certified medically ineligible<a href="#_ftnref4">[4]</a> (from 1 December 2021).</li></ul></li><li>For tours that involve F&B components at hawker centres and coffee shops that are not able to administer comprehensive VDS, the dine-in group size is capped at 2. Participants must return into their earlier groupings of up to 5 after leaving the hawker centre or coffee shop or else remain in the same groupings of 2.</li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve i) entry into settings with VDS, ii) any F&B components, or iii) indoor activities where masks are not worn, ensure that the maximum number of participants in a group within each such tour is capped at <strong>5</strong> pax, regardless of vaccination status or whether they are from the same household.</li></ul></li></ul><p> </p><p><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> An individual is considered fully vaccinated if he/ she has been: a) fully vaccinated, i.e. has received the full regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty, Moderna or WHO EUL vaccines, with an additional two weeks for the vaccine to be fully effective, b) fully recovered from COVID-19, or c) has obtained a negative result on a pre-event test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event. </p><p><a href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a> Children who are 12 years and below do not need to do PET. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below may be included within the group of 5 pax as long as all the children are from the same household. Please refer to MOH’s press release on 20 November 2021 for more details:https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/resuming-our-transition-towards-covid-resilience</p><p><a href="#_ftnref4">[4]</a> Certified medically ineligible individuals will be issued with a standard paper memo, which should be presented along with a government-issued photo identification card to be exempted from VDS.</p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document. For a copy of the application and declaration forms, please refer <a href="https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/home-pages/advisory-for-tours.html">here</a>.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>On 8 November 2021, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced calibrated adjustments to Safe Management Measures (SMMs) for the Stabilisation Phase. In line with this, the Singapore Tourism Board ("STB") has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p> </p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><p> </p><ul><li>With effect from 10 November 2021: <ul><li>For tours that involve F&B components<a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a>, entry into shopping malls or attractions, or indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>2</strong> pax. Families from the same household will need to be in groups of two, except when dining in at F&B establishments as detailed below.<ul><li>All individuals within such tours must be<ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>children aged 12 years and below<a href="#_ftn3">[3]</a>; or</li><li>certified medically ineligible individuals<a href="#_ftn4">[4]</a> (from 1 December 2021).</li></ul></li><li>For tours that involve F&B components at F&B establishments that are able to administer comprehensive Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS), up to 5 fully vaccinated individuals from the same household<a href="#_ftn5">[5]</a> can dine-in together. Participants are required to return to and adhere to their earlier groupings of 2 after leaving the F&B establishments. To avoid doubt, hawker centres and coffee shops are not able to administer comprehensive VDS, and the dine-in group size remains capped at 2 pax.</li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve F&B components, entry into shopping malls and attractions, or indoor activities where masks are not worn, ensure that the maximum number of participants in a group within each such tour is capped at <strong>2</strong> pax, regardless of vaccination status.</li></ul></li></ul><p> </p><p><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a> An individual is considered fully vaccinated if he/ she has been: a) fully vaccinated, i.e. has received the full regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty, Moderna or WHO EUL vaccines, with an additional two weeks for the vaccine to be fully effective, b) fully recovered from COVID-19, or c) has obtained a negative result on a pre-event test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event.</p><p><a href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a> Children who are 12 years and below do not need to do PET. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below may be included within the group of 2 pax as long as all the children are from the same household. Please refer to Annex B of MOH’s press release on 9 October 2021 for more details: <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/protecting-the-vulnerable-securing-our-future">https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/protecting-the-vulnerable-securing-our-future</a> </p><p><a href="#_ftnref4">[4]</a> Certified medically ineligible individuals will be issued with a standard paper memo, which should be presented along with a government-issued photo identification card to be exempted from VDS.</p><p><a href="#_ftnref5">[5]</a> This includes unvaccinated children 12 years and below, in line with their eligibility for VDS, as well as certified medically ineligible individuals (from 1 December 2021). If a group comprises up to 5 such children, all the children must be from the same household. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>In line with the latest health situation in Singapore and the need to slow down community transmission, the Singapore Tourism Board ("STB") has updated the Safe Management Measures ("SMMs") that are applicable to tours with effect from 13 October 2021.</p><p>The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><ul><li>For tours that involve F&B components<a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a>, entry into shopping malls or attractions, or indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of pax in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>2</strong> and this will apply throughout the duration of the tour. All individuals within such tours must be <ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="#_ftn2">[2]</a>; or</li><li>children aged 12 years and below<a href="#_ftn3">[3]</a>.</li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve F&B components, entry into shopping malls and attractions, or indoor activities where masks are not worn, ensure that the maximum number of pax in a group within each such tour is capped at <strong>2</strong> regardless of vaccination status </li></ul><p> </p><p>[1] This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops.</p><p>[2] An individual is considered fully vaccinated if he/ she has been: a) fully vaccinated, i.e. has received the full regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty, Moderna or WHO EUL vaccines, with an additional two weeks for the vaccine to be fully effective, b) fully recovered from COVID-19, or c) has obtained a negative result on a pre-event test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event. </p><p>[3]Children who are 12 years and below do not need to do PET. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below may be included within the group of 2 persons as long as all the children are from the same household. Please refer to Annex B of MOH’s press release on 9 October 2021 for more details: <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/protecting-the-vulnerable-securing-our-future">https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/protecting-the-vulnerable-securing-our-future.</a></p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>In response to the growing number of COVID-19 cases in the community, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce ("MTF") announced on <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/going-back-to-phase-2-heightened-alert">24 September 2021</a> that it would tighten Safe Management Measures ("SMMs") with effect from 27 September 2021 through 24 October 2021 (both dates inclusive).</p><p>The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><ul><li>For tours that involve indoor activities where masks are not worn e.g., tours with F&B components, the maximum number of pax in each group within such tours is capped at <strong>2</strong> and this will apply throughout the duration of the tour. The F&B establishments that the tour will visit must have in place systems to check the vaccination status of the individuals. All individuals within such tours must be <ul><li>fully vaccinated[1]; or</li><li>children aged 12 years and below[2]. </li></ul></li><li>For tours that do not involve indoor activities where masks are not worn, ensure that the maximum number of pax in a group within each such tour is capped at <strong>2</strong> regardless of vaccination status.</li></ul><p> </p><p>[1]An individual is considered fully vaccinated if he/ she has been: a) fully vaccinated, i.e. has received the full regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty, Moderna or WHO EUL vaccines, with an additional two weeks for the vaccine to be fully effective, b) recovered from COVID-19, or c) has obtained a negative result on a pre-event test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event. </p><p>[2]Children who are 12 years and below do not need to do PET. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below may be included within the group of 2 persons as long as all the children are from the same household. Please refer to Annex B of MOH’s press release on 6 August 2021 for more details: <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/default-document-library/annex-b26e603847daf404a99c4f73cb79600fc.pdf">https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/default-document-library/annex-b26e603847daf404a99c4f73cb79600fc.pdf</a></p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear stakeholders,</p><p>As part of the national effort to step up regular testing, we would strongly encourage companies with employees that work onsite and are not already subject to mandatory RRT, to apply for 8 Antigen Rapid Test (ART) kits per onsite employee for weekly testing of your employees over a two-month period. With regular testing, companies can detect and ringfence infections early. These tests can be administered by the individuals themselves at home, or at the work premises.</p><p>For more information on the time-limited 8-weeks RRT for workplaces, please refer to the attached document. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>As Singapore transits towards COVID resilience, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced on <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/preparing-for-our-transition-towards-covid-resilience">6 August 2021</a> that it would ease Safe Management Measures ("SMMs") in two steps. The first will take effect from 10 August 2021 and the second from 19 August 2021, if conditions remain stable.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><p>With effect from 10 August 2021: </p><ul><li>For tours that involve indoor activities where masks are not worn e.g., tours with F&B components, the maximum number of participants for each tour is 20, with each group within such tours capped at 5 pax and this will apply throughout the duration of the tour. The F&B establishments that the tour will visit must have in place systems to check the vaccination status of the individuals. All individuals within such tours must be<ul><li>fully vaccinated (as defined in footnote1); or</li><li>children aged 12 years and below[2].</li></ul></li><li>For tours with F&B components at hawker centres and coffee shops, the maximum number of participants for each tour is 20, with each group within such tours being stricter and capped at 2 pax regardless of vaccination status; and</li><li>For tours that do not involve indoor activities where masks are not worn, the maximum number of participants for such tours remain at 20 with each group within such tours capped at 5 pax regardless of vaccination status.</li></ul><p>With effect from 19 August 2021:</p><ul><li>For conveyance-assisted tours, capacity on board every conveyance must be capped at 50 participants or at the operating capacity of the conveyance, whichever is lower.</li></ul><p> </p><p>[1] An individual is considered fully vaccinated if he/ she has been: a) fully vaccinated, i.e. has received the full regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnatry, Moderna or WHO EUL vaccines, with an additional two weeks for the vaccine to be fully effective, b) recovered from COVID-19, or c) has obtained a negative result on a pre-event test taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event.</p><p>[2] Children who are 12 years and below do not need to do PET. Unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below may be included within the group of 5 persons as long as all the children are from the same household. Please refer to Annex B of MOH’s press release on 6 August 2021 for more details: <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/default-document-library/annex-b26e603847daf404a99c4f73cb79600fc.pdf">https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/default-document-library/annex-b26e603847daf404a99c4f73cb79600fc.pdf</a></p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>In response to the growing number of COVID-19 cases in the community, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce ("MTF") announced on <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/updates-on-phase-3-(heightened-alert)-measures">20 July 2021</a> that it would further tighten Safe Management Measures ("SMMs") by going back to Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) with effect from 22 July 2021 through 18 August 2021.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><ul><li>With effect from 22 July 2021 to 18 August 2021 (both dates inclusive): <ul><li>For all tours (conveyance and non-conveyance), the tour capacity is 20 participants, and the maximum number of pax in a group within each tour must be capped at 2. A safe distance of at least one metre between each group must be maintained with no intermingling between different groups at all times.</li><li>Tours with food and drink components that require the removal of masks, including dine-in and food sampling/tasting, are not allowed. </li></ul></li></ul><p>Travel agents and tourist guides must have sufficient measures in place to ensure adherence to the tightened measures, e.g. through the assignment of additional guides or staff on ground to ensure that safe distancing between different groups are maintained and no intermingling between different groups.</p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>To mitigate further community spread of COVID-19, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced on <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/updates-on-phase-3-(heightened-alert)-measures">16 July 2021</a> that it would tighten Safe Management Measures (SMMs) for higher-risk, mask-off settings with effect from 19 July 2021 through 8 August 2021 (both dates inclusive).</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><ul><li>With effect from 19 July 2021 to 8 August 2021 (both dates inclusive):<ul><li>For tours that involve indoor mask-off activities e.g., tours with F&B dine-in components, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at 2 participants and this will apply throughout the duration of the tour.</li><li>The maximum number of participants in each group within such tours may be capped at 5 participants if:<ul><li>The F&B establishments that the tour will visit have put in place systems to check the vaccination status of the individuals;</li><li>All individuals in the group are:<ul><li>fully vaccinated;<a href="#_ftn1">[1]</a> or</li><li>have recovered from COVID-19 within the preceding 270 days; or</li><li>have a valid negative pre-event test (PET) result for the duration of his/her dining in<a href="#_ftn2">[2]</a>; or</li><li>children aged 12 years and below<a href="#_ftn3">[3]</a>.</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul></li><li>For the avoidance of doubt, for tours with F&B dine-in components to hawker centres, food courts and coffee shops, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours is capped at 2 participants; and</li><li>For all other tours, the maximum number of participants in each group remains at 5 participants.</li></ul><p> </p><p><a href="#_ftnref1">[1]</a>An individual is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after he or she has received two doses of Pfizer-BioNTech/Comirnaty or Moderna vaccines.</p><p><a href="#_ftnref2">[2]</a>This refers to tests done by MOH-approved COVID-19 test providers, and the PET must have been taken in the past 24 hours before the expected end of the event/visit. </p><p><a href="#_ftnref3">[3]</a>Children who are 12 years and below do not need to do PET. If the group is not from the same household, then the number of children 12 years old and below should constitute not more than half the dine-in group. If the group is from the same household, then the group may consist of up to 4 children aged 12 years and below and an adult. Please refer to Annex B of MOH’s press release on 16 July 2021 for more details: <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/default-document-library/annex-b26e603847daf404a99c4f73cb79600fc.pdf">https://www.moh.gov.sg/docs/librariesprovider5/default-document-library/annex-b26e603847daf404a99c4f73cb79600fc.pdf</a></p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached document.</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Following the two stages of gradual reopening to Phase 3 (Heightened Alert) on 14 June and 21 June 2021, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced on <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/news-highlights/details/updates-on-phase-3-(heightened-alert)-measures-7Jul">7 July 2021</a> that it will continue to calibrate the resumption of more economic and community activities.</p><p>The new measures for re-opening will take effect from Monday, 12 July 2021. These measures may be relaxed further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><ul><li>With effect from 12 July 2021: <ul><li>For tours with F&B dining-in components, the maximum number of participants in each group within such tours has been increased from 2 to 5. </li><li>For tours with other F&B components that do not involve dining-in, the maximum number of participants in each group remains at 5.</li></ul></li></ul><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>On 10 June 2021, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced that Singapore will move back to Phase 3 (Heightened Alert) in two steps as part of a calibrated re-opening. Due to the persistence of undetected community transmission cases, we are recalibrating our reopening plans for higher risk activities. The new measures for re-opening will take effect from Monday, 21 June 2021. These measures will be relaxed further from mid-July 2021, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore.</p><p>The following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><ul><li>With effect from 21 June 2021: Tours with food and beverage (F&B) components may resume with safe management measures in place.<ul><li>For tours with F&B dining-in components, the number of participants in each group must be capped at 2 pax throughout the duration of the tour.</li><li>For tours with other F&B components that do not involve dining-in, the number of participants in each group must be capped at 5 pax throughout the duration of the tour.</li></ul></li></ul><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Please note that the following changes have been made to the “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=157">Updated Advisory on Safe Management Measures for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2</a>” and “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=157">Safe Management Measures Required for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2: Manual for Tour Operators and Tourist Guides</a>” with effect from 1 Nov 2020:</p> <p> </p> <ul> <li>For walking, cycling and kayaking tours, maximum number of participants has been increased from 10 pax to 20 pax. Participants must be split into groups, with maximum number of pax in each group capped at prevailing social gathering group size.</li> <li>Use of TraceTogether app or token by participants has been made mandatory.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p>
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<p>Please note that the following key changes have been made to the “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=165">Updated Advisory on Safe Management Measures for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2</a>” and “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=165">Safe Management Measures Required for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2: Manual for Tour Operators and Tourist Guides</a>” with effect from 14 April 2021:</p> <ul> <li>For walking, cycling and kayaking tours, maximum number of participants has been increased from 20 pax to 50 pax*.</li> <li>8-hour time limit for tours will be removed.</li> <li>Applications for resumption of tours will be assessed on a per applicant (i.e. tour operators and tourist guides) basis, instead of individual tour itinerary. Tour operators and tourist guides that have not previously received approval from MTI to resume tours must still submit their application for tour resumption to STB. Tour operators and tourist guides that have already received approval to resume operations do not need to seek approval again.</li> </ul> <p>*<em>Sub-groups at prevailing maximum permissible group size (i.e. 8 pax) must be maintained.</em></p> <p>We would also wish to remind all tour operators and tourist guides approved for tour resumptions to continue to submit their weekly data to STB for internal public policy purposes.</p> <p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p>
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<p>In light of the increased number of local cases and concerns of wider community transmissions, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) has announced on 14 May 2021 that measures will be taken to reduce the level of interactions in the community. </p><p> </p><p>With effect from 16 May 2021 to 13 June 2021(both dates inclusive), the following changes to the SMMs will apply: </p><p> </p><ul><li>For all tours, the tour capacity is maintained at 20 participants, but the maximum number of pax in a group within each such tour is capped at 2 pax, and a safe distance of at least one metre between each such groups must be maintained at all times with no intermingling between different groups at all times</li></ul><p> </p><ul><li>Tours with food and drink components that require the removal of masks, including dine-in F&B, food sampling/tasting, are not allowed </li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>Travel agents and tourist guides must have sufficient measures in place to ensure adherence to the tightened measures,</strong> e.g. through the assignment of additional guides or staff on ground to ensure that safe distancing between sub-groups are maintained and no intermingling between sub-groups. </p><p> </p><p>Further changes to timeframe and operating capacity may be made depending on how the local COVID-19 situation evolves. Tour operators and tourist guides may continue to operate under the existing approved SMMs. </p><p> </p><p>For more information, please view the bulletin post on <a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page.html">TRUST</a>, under "Updated Circular on Safe Management Measures (SMMs) for Tours Re-Opening _14May".</p><p> </p><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guide Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and National Arts Council (NAC) will be conducting a networking and ideation workshop for tour operators and arts practitioners on <strong>19 and 20 April 2021</strong>. The 2-day workshop is intended to bring together tour operators and arts practitioners to</p> <ol> <li>Deepen cross-sector understanding of the tour and performing arts landscape via sharing by local arts groups and participating in tour experiences.</li> <li>Collaborate and ideate on new concepts for Performing Arts Tours through an ideation workshop</li> </ol> <p>This workshop is held in tandem with the STB-NAC Performing Arts Tours Pilot Grant, a one-time grant that aims to support the development of innovative, sustainable performing arts tours pilots. The application is to be jointly submitted by a tour operator and arts practitioner, with either party as the lead applicant.</p> <p>Participants who are not shortlisted for the workshop may still surface a proposal for the STB-NAC Performing Arts Tours Pilot Grant if they meet the relevant criteria. More details on the pilot grant will be published at a later time.</p> <p><strong>Eligibility</strong></p> <p>The workshop is open to:</p> <ul> <li>Licensed Travel Agents</li> <li>Tour Operators operated by a licensed Tourist Guide; who is both a shareholder and director of the business</li> </ul> <p>Due to safe management measures, capacity is limited and interested participants would need to surface an application to attend. Only 1 representative from each <strong>successful</strong> applicant company will be able to attend the Performing Arts Tour Workshop.</p> <p><strong>Application and Assessment</strong></p> <ul> <li>Interested applicants must submit their application via <a href="https://go.gov.sg/artstoursworkshop-stb">https://go.gov.sg/artstoursworkshop-stb</a> by <strong>Friday, 19 March, 5pm</strong>. Late and incomplete submissions (e.g. incomplete fields, missing supporting documents) will not be accepted.</li> <li>Please allow for up to 2-3 weeks for your application to be processed. Successful applicants will be informed by <strong>week of</strong> <strong>5 April</strong> via email.</li> <li>Priority will be accorded to applicants that are able to demonstrate experience in tour development and content curation <strong><em>and</em></strong> have demonstrated interest, willingness and ability to pilot new tours in the last 2 years.</li> </ul> <p>For further questions/clarifications, please email <a href="mailto:stb_tid@stb.gov.sg">stb_tid@stb.gov.sg</a>.</p>
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<p>Please note that the following changes have been made to the “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=155">Updated Advisory on Safe Management Measures for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2</a>” and “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=155">Safe Management Measures Required for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2: Manual for Tour Operators and Tourist Guides</a>” with effect from 26 August 2020:</p> <p> </p> <ul> <li>Under “2d. During-Tour Checklist”, tour operators and tourist guides must comply with all other prevailing Sector Specific Requirements that will apply to the Points of Interest visited as part of the tour, for example, attractions, retail shops and F&B outlets.</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents including FAQs for Tours Reopening.</p>
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<p>On 28 June 2020, Singapore Tourism Board shared the <a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=152">Advisory on Safe Management Measures (SMMs) for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2</a> which provides guidance on the necessary SMMs that Tour Operators and Tourist Guides need to adhere to before resuming tours.</p> <p> </p> <p>With effect from 27 July 2020, the following changes to the SMMs will apply:</p> <p> </p> <ol> <li>For walking, cycling and kayaking tours, maximum group size has been increased from 5 pax to 10 pax (excluding tourist guide), with maximum 5 pax allowed in any one sub-group.</li> <li>Operating capacity for conveyance-assisted tours will be capped at 50 pax or at the operating capacity of the conveyance after implementation of safe management measures, whichever is lower.</li> <li>For all tours, there should not be more than 5 pax in a sub-group and maintain at least 1m safe distance between sub-groups. Ensure no intermingling between different sub-groups at all times.</li> <li>Tour duration limit has been increased from 2 hours to 8 hours.</li> </ol> <p> </p> <p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached “Updated STB Advisory on Safe Management Measures for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2” and “Safe Management Measures Required for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2: Manual for Tour Operators and Tourist Guides”.</p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners,</p><p> </p><p>1 With the easing of Covid-19 border measures, tours and travels have resumed gradually in recent months. Singapore Customs would like to take the opportunity to update you on the Customs formalities and clearance procedures for inbound travellers and seek your co-operation to disseminate the information to your customers (i.e. travellers) for their compliance on their arrival in Singapore. You may consider doing so via your tour publicity materials or pre-tour briefings etc.</p><p>2 All arriving travellers including foreign visitors and returning residents are required to declare and pay the duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) to bring in dutiable and GST payable goods exceeding their duty-free concession and GST import relief.</p><p>3 Travellers are granted GST import relief on new articles, souvenirs, gifts and food preparations (excluding intoxicating liquors, tobacco and goods imported for commercial purposes) brought into Singapore for their personal use or consumption. The relief amount is based on the value of goods the traveller brings in, and the duration that the traveller has spent outside Singapore. Travellers will have to pay GST on the value of the goods which is in excess of the GST import relief granted to them. You may refer to the Frequently Asked Questions at Annex A for more information.</p><p><strong>GST Import Relief*</strong></p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Time Spent Away from Singapore</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Value of Goods Granted GST Relief</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">48 hours or more</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Up to S$500</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Less than 48 hours</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Up to S$100</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>*Holders of a work permit, employment pass, student pass, dependent pass or long-term pass issued by the Singapore Government are not entitled to GST import relief.</p><p>4 Travellers are entitled to duty-free concession for liquors if the qualifying conditions are met. There is no duty-free concession and GST relief for all cigarettes and tobacco products brought into Singapore.</p><p><strong>Liquor Duty-Free Concession**</strong></p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Options</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Spirits</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Wine</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Beer</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">A</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">B</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">C</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">D</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">2 Litres</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">E</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">2 Litres</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>**There is no duty-free concession on liquors for travellers arriving from Malaysia.</p><p>5 For convenience, travellers are encouraged to make an advance declaration and payment of the GST and/or duty using the Customs@SG web application. Alternatively, travellers can declare and pay the GST and/or duty for their goods at the Customs Tax Payment Office. Travellers are advised to keep the receipts of their overseas purchases to facilitate the computation and verification of tax payable in Singapore.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Annex A</strong></p><p><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></p><p><strong>Q1. Why do I need to pay GST on my overseas purchases?</strong></p><p>A1. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax on the supply of goods and services in Singapore and on the importation of goods into Singapore. This means that GST is levied on goods supplied in Singapore, whether or not they are bought overseas or locally. The imposition of GST on goods imported into Singapore has been in force since 1 April 1994 when GST was implemented in Singapore. The practice is consistent with countries that levy a GST (also known as Value-Added Tax in some countries). All goods, whether from commercial shipments (i.e. shipping of goods) or hand-carried by travellers, are subject to GST at the prevailing rate.</p><p><strong>Q2. If I were to buy a branded bag for S$2,000 while holidaying overseas, and were to start using it during the trip, do I have to pay GST when I bring the bag home? If so, how is the GST computed?</strong></p><p>A2. Yes, the bag is subject to the prevailing GST rate of 8 per cent. If you have been away from Singapore for more than 48 hours, you will be entitled to a GST import relief amount of S$500. Therefore, the amount of GST that you will have to pay is S$120 [S$(2,000 - 500) x 8 per cent]. If you have been away from Singapore for less than 48 hours, you will be entitled to a GST import relief amount of S$100. Therefore, the amount of GST that you will have to pay is S$152 [S$(2,000 - 100) x 8 per cent].</p><p><strong>Q3. If I were to remove the price tag/packaging and use an item bought overseas immediately, is the item still subject to GST? Can it be considered a used article or personal belongings where GST import relief is granted?</strong></p><p>A3. The item in question is not considered as "used articles and personal belongings" and GST is payable if the value exceeds the GST import relief amount granted.</p><p><strong>Q4. If I already paid sales tax for an item purchased overseas and I did not claim tax refund, do I still have to pay GST?</strong></p><p>A4. GST is applicable on all items brought into Singapore regardless of whether foreign sales tax was paid for the item overseas, or whether the traveller has claimed tax refund for the item.</p><p><strong>Q5. If I were to receive a gift while overseas, how is the tax calculated since I will not have a receipt and will not be able to estimate the value of the gift?</strong></p><p>A5. If the receipt is not available, the value of the goods will be assessed based on the value of identical or similar goods when computing the GST payable.</p><p> </p><p>For more information, please refer to the following links.</p><ul><li>Customs Guide for Travellers: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/guide-for-travellers/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/guide-for-travellers/</a></li><li>Customs@SG Web Application: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/eservices/customs-sg-web-application/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/eservices/customs-sg-web-application/</a></li><li>Duty-Free Concession and GST Import Relief: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/duty-free-concession-and-gst-relief/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/duty-free-concession-and-gst-relief/</a></li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of the Singapore Customs,</strong></p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agent, </p><p> </p><p>On 8 April 2020, in response to the Covid-19 crisis, STB amended the Travel Agents Regulations 2017 (TAR) to:</p><p>a) Reduce the minimum net value requirement by 90%; and</p><p>b) Allow the submission of Auditor Certified Accounts (CAs) in lieu of Audited Statement of Accounts (AA).</p><p> </p><p>2 With the protracted Covid situation, these requirements were extended twice, in December 2020 and December 2021.</p><p> </p><p>3 With the reopening of borders, travel volume has seen a gradual recovery. As such, STB will be adjusting the minimum net value requirement accordingly. As such, </p><p>a) With effect from 1 January 2023, the reduction in the minimum net value requirement will be adjusted to 60%, or $40,000 for general licensees and $20,000 for niche licensees up to 31 December 2023. </p><p>b) However, you may continue to submit Auditor Certified Accounts (CAs) (reported in accordance with the <a href="https://isca.org.sg/standards-guidance/audit-assurance/standards-and-guidance/singapore-standards-on-review-engagements-(ssres)">Singapore Standard on Review Engagement - SSRE 2400</a> by an independent auditor) in lieu of AA for the financial year ending on or after 1 March 2023.</p><p> </p><p>4 You will be given <strong>until 30 June 2023 </strong>to do any necessary top-ups to meet the revised requirement mentioned in para 3(a) above. </p><p> </p><p>5 These measures will be reviewed and amended further, in accordance with the pace of tourism recovery. </p><p> </p><p>6 Please refer to the attachment below to read the full subsidiary legislation supplement. Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Electronic Gazette website <a href="http://www.egazette.com.sg/gazetteViewDetail.aspx?ct=sls&subscriber=0">here</a> and click on "Travel Agents Act 1975 - Travel Agents (Amendment) Regulations 2022".</p><p> </p><p>7 For any queries, please contact STB at <a href="stb_ta@stb.gov.sg">stb_ta@stb.gov.sg</a>. Thank you.</p><p> </p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners,</p><p>Singapore City Gallery, URA’s 3-storey visitor centre which reopened since Jan 2022 is pleased to welcome back visitors from China. As before, admission is free and opening hours are Mondays to Saturdays, 9am to 5pm. </p><p><strong>[NEW] Self-service booking platform for groups exceeding 20 pax</strong></p><p>City Gallery needs large groups (more than 20 pax) to book a timeslot for their visit to the Gallery for each visitor to have a pleasant learning experience. These large groups are required to submit a visit request <a href="https://safe.menlosecurity.com/https:/www.booking.gov.sg/public/services/8ZlQjdeM/availability?anonymous=true">online</a> via the new BookingSG platform. There are four 2-hour timeslots to select from - 9am to 11am, 11am to 1.00pm, 1.00pm to 3.00pm and 3.00pm to 5.00pm. Once a booking is submitted, a confirmation email will be sent instantaneously. Links are also available on this email for visitors to self-modify/cancel their bookings on their own. </p><p>It is designed for self-discovery learning where there are many interactive exhibits for group and individual learning, with vivid 3D walkthrough and animation videos. It will be a wonderful visitor experience to explore Singapore past, present and future, its land use planning and how digitalisation and innovative solutions help in making better decisions to shape our city and home of the future. You may wish to allocate between 1 to 1.5 hours at Singapore City Gallery.</p><p>Lastly, visitors are also encouraged to read up on the Gallery’s <a href="https://safe.menlosecurity.com/https:/www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Singapore-City-Gallery/More-info/FAQs-for-Singapore-City-Gallery">FAQs</a> and <a href="https://safe.menlosecurity.com/https:/www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Singapore-City-Gallery/More-info/Gallery-house-rules">House rules</a> before visiting. For any further queries beyond the two links shared, you may write to our <a href="https://www.ura.gov.sg/feedbackWeb/">online feedback form</a>.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p><i>Tour & Industry Development,</i></p><p><i>Singapore Tourism Board On behalf of Singapore City Gallery team at URA.</i></p>
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<p>The Ministry of Health (MOH) advises travellers to take the following preventive measures when travelling to the Middle East region.</p><p> </p><p><strong>PRE-TRAVEL PREPARATIONS</strong></p><ul><li>Consult your healthcare provider prior to travel.</li><li>Check on vaccination requirements and take all required vaccines.</li><li>Be up-to-date with vaccinations in the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) or National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and routine vaccines.</li><li>Be aware of the situation in countries you intend to travel to.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS</strong></p><p>Travellers are advised to check the entry requirements imposed by the countries they intend to travel to. Travellers are also recommended to be up-to-date with vaccinations in the NAIS or NCIS.</p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Vaccine</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Vaccination details</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><i>Requirement</i></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">COVID-19 vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Entry requirement to some countries in the Middle East region<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>.</p><p>COVID-19 vaccination is free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents in Singapore. The vaccination is especially important for the elderly and other vulnerable groups (e.g. pregnant women, persons with comorbidities) as they are at high risk of severe disease. For more information on COVID-19 vaccination, please visit <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs">https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs</a>.</p></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><i>Recommended</i></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Influenza vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Recommended in the NAIS and NCIS for children aged 6 months to below 5 years, adults aged 65 years and older, and persons aged 5 to 64 years with certain medical conditions or indications. All other travellers may also consider getting the influenza vaccination prior to travel.</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Pneumococcal vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Recommended in the NAIS and NCIS for children below 5 years of age, adults aged 65 years and older, and persons aged 5 to 64 years with certain medical conditions.</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Routine vaccines</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Other nationally recommended vaccinations include <strong>measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) and varicella</strong> vaccinations (for children and adults), and <strong>diphtheria and polio</strong> vaccinations (for children).</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><p>Subsidies are available for eligible Singaporeans for nationally recommended vaccinations. Please consult your doctor for further advice regarding the above vaccinations or on other travel-related vaccinations prior to travel.</p><p>For more information on nationally recommended vaccinations, please visit the HealthHub at: <a href="https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate ">https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate </a></p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><br><strong>GENERAL HEALTH ADVICE</strong></p><ul><li>Observe good personal hygiene at all times.</li><li>Practise frequent hand washing (e.g. before handling food or eating, after going to toilet, or when hands are soiled).</li><li>Adopt good food safety and hygiene practices and avoid consuming raw and unpasteurised milk, undercooked meats, or food prepared under unsanitary conditions, and properly washing fruits and vegetables before eating them.</li><li>Avoid close contact with persons who are unwell, such as those suffering from respiratory infections.</li><li>Avoid contact with camels and other animals, including not visiting camel farms. If contact has been made, thoroughly wash hands with soap.</li><li>Avoid visiting healthcare institutions in the Middle East unless it is necessary to do so as part of accessing medical care.</li><li>Travellers are advised to wear masks (i.e. surgical masks) especially when in crowded places.</li><li>Wear a surgical mask and seek medical attention promptly if you become unwell while travelling or within 2 weeks after returning to Singapore, and inform the doctor of your travel history.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>OTHER HEALTH ALERT(S)</strong></p><p><strong>Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)</strong></p><p>Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is viral illness caused by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Since 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded more than 2600 cases of MERS-CoV infection in 27 countries, mainly in the Middle East region<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a>. Majority of the cases were reported in Saudi Arabia, with recent cases in 2022 reported in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman.</p><p>Symptoms of MERS-CoV infection include fever, cough and shortness of breath. MERS-CoV infection may result in severe illness and complications, such as pneumonia, and death occurs in about a third of infected individuals. The virus is present in infected dromedary camels, and can spread to humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. It may also spread through close contact with infected persons.</p><p>For the latest update on the Health Advisory, please refer to <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/novel-coronavirus-infection-(mers-cov)">https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/novel-coronavirus-infection-(mers-cov)</a></p><p> </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> Please visit MFA’s website for details on the prevailing requirements for entry into the different countries: <a href="https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Where-Are-You-Travelling-To ">https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Where-Are-You-Travelling-To </a></p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> For the latest update, please refer to WHO’s website at: <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-mers">https://www.who.int/health-topics/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-mers</a></p><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of the Ministry of Health (MOH),</strong></p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners, </p><p> </p><p>The Sri Mariamman Temple, located at No. 244 South Bridge Road, is one of the Temples administered by the Hindu Endowments Board which is under the purview of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. </p><p>Being a National Monument, the Temple has a large flow of devotees and tourists visiting the Temple daily. This year, the annual Fire Walking Ceremony will be held on Sunday, 16 October 2022. The preceding ceremonies will commence from 30 September 2022 to 17 October 2022. </p><p>During the period of the ceremonies, large congregations of more than 3000 devotees are expected to patronize the Temple daily. Due to the large number of participating devotees, it would not be possible for tourists to visit the Temple. As such, we would appreciate it if you could advice the tour operators to avoid bringing tourists to the Temple from 30 September 2022 to 17 October 2022. </p><p> </p><p>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of Sri Mariamman Temple,</strong></p><p>Tour & Industry Development Team</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agent</p><p> </p><p>The Singapore Tourism Board is pleased to announce the roll-out of the digital version of your Travel Agent licence with effect from today. </p><p>From 15 September 2022, travel agents who have renewed their licence for 2023/2024 or updated your business details will be issued your new licence via TRUST. </p><p>Find out more about the new Travel Agent licence by clicking the links below and follow the steps to download and display your licence at your place of business.</p><p><strong>If you are due for licence renewal in 2023, your existing licence will remain valid and does not need to be converted.</strong></p><p>Please do not hesitate to contact us at <a href="mailto:stb_ta@stb.gov.sg">stb_ta@stb.gov.sg</a>, should you require more information. </p><p> </p><p>Yours Faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division<br>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents,</p><p>As part of the STB’s efforts to go digital and expedite licence issuance to travel agents, STB will be transiting towards the issuance of the Travel Agent licence in a downloadable digital format via TRUST from 15 September 2022. </p><p>Click on the infographic (as attached) to find out what you can expect. More information will be shared in the coming weeks. Please stay tuned.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p>Regards<br>Travel Agent Licensing and Regulatory Review Department</p>
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<p>On 24 Aug 2022, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced further easing of Safe Management Measures (SMMs). In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. Please refer to key updates below. </p><p>With effect from 29 Aug 2022:</p><ul><li>Mask-wearing is mandatory only on public transport (i.e. on MRT/LRT and public buses) and indoor public transport facilities (e.g. boarding areas at bus interchanges and MRT platforms). Tour buses are exempted from mask-wearing.<br> </li><li>For tours that involve entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) such as F&B establishments<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, vaccination status checks are not required. The onus is on the individuals to abide by the rules, where he/she must be:<br><br><ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4];</a></li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li></ul><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL). Individuals may check whether they are considered "fully vaccinated" at <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs---post-vaccination-matters">https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs---post-vaccination-matters</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2010 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. In addition, from 15 March 2022, unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth) need not be from the same household to be included within a group entering premises or participating in activities with VDS.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.<br>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents</p><p>As part of our continued efforts to serve your better, we have reviewed the current service standards.<br>Please find the revised below.</p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Licensing Services</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong> Service Standards</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Email Enquiry</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"> Reply within 3 working days</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Call request / Missed calls</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"> Return call within 3 working days</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Business Entity Details Update</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"> Up to 5 working days upon successful submission of all required documents and completed information via the TRUST website</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Processing of New Licence Application</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"> Up to 10 working days upon successful submission of all required documents and completed information via the TRUST website</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Processing of Renewal Application</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"> Up to 10 working days upon successful submission of all required documents and completed information via the TRUST website, including payment of any outstanding fines, composition sums and financial penalties. </td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>We do seek your patience and understanding if more time is required for complex enquiries/applications.<br>Thank you.<br><br>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tour Operators and Tourist Guides,</p><p> </p><p>We are pleased to provide some additional heritage resources kindly provided by NLB:</p><p> </p><p><strong>Places and Stories - Collection of historical write-ups, presented as stories, for tourist guides, grouped by regions in Singapore</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAFBrdqQ0Rk/Vili0ZEdzdBWLAfQa4MB2w/view?utm_content=DAFBrdqQ0Rk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink">Places & Stories (canva.com)</a></p><p>This presentation is for Tourist Guides who are seeking to deepen and broaden their knowledge on interesting events at various tourist sites.</p><p>The collection of stories is specially curated by NLB’s librarians, with references to resources where more details and photographs can be obtained. It is useful for Tourist Guides to help give their tourists a more varied and nostalgic experience during their tours.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Collections and Services in National Library / National Archives</strong></p><p><i>Collections Guide (See Attached)</i></p><p>This presentation is for Tourist Guides who are looking for additional resources to do research on the history and culture of different tourist sites.</p><p>The presentation gives details on how to access the various online and on-site materials available to tourist guides and members of the public for research purposes, including location of resources, short summaries of resources, and any applicable fees. A summary of the resources can be found on page 39.</p><p> </p><p>Do also check out the <a href="https://curiocity.nlb.gov.sg/">Curiocity</a> website for more heritage materials.</p><p> </p><p>Yours Faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents,</p><p>This circular is to update on some changes to the Business Improvement Fund and Experience Step-Up Fund.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Business Improvement Fund (BIF)</strong></p><p>With effect from 1 Apr 2022, the BIF has been expanded to support sustainability initiatives. This is to help tourism companies build resource efficiencies, pivot business models to enhance competitiveness, and scale up the adoption and development of sustainable solutions.</p><p>Examples of supportable sustainability projects include:</p><ul><li>Sustainability strategy projects (e.g. development of Environmental, Social and Governance reporting framework, sustainability risk assessment) </li><li>Adoption of internationally-recognised sustainability certification and/or standards</li><li>Development of resource-efficient solutions to improve sustainability performance</li><li>Adoption and development of new, innovative, and sustainable products, services or solutions</li></ul><p>More information about the BIF can be found here: <a href="https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/assistance-and-licensing/grants-overview/business-improvement-fund-bif.html">https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/assistance-and-licensing/grants-overview/business-improvement-fund-bif.html</a></p><p> </p><p><strong>Experience Step-Up Fund (ESF)</strong></p><p>In addition to the development of physical tour products, the ESF now supports the development of new virtual tour products and experiences as well, subject to STB’s assessment. Qualifying costs may include third-party project-related costs such as professional services, hardware/equipment and software, materials and consumables, production, marketing costs, and internal manpower costs.</p><p>More information about the ESF can be found here: </p><p><a href="https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/assistance-and-licensing/grants-overview/experience-step-up-fund-esf.html">https://www.stb.gov.sg/content/stb/en/assistance-and-licensing/grants-overview/experience-step-up-fund-esf.html</a></p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents and Tourist Guides</p><p> </p><p>To ensure a safe working environment, businesses must adhere to sector-specific safe management measures. Attached is a list of infographics for ease of reference:</p><ul><li>Annex A - Summary of relevant latest measures</li><li>Annex B - Reminder on handling inbound travellers</li></ul><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you.</p><p> </p><p>[Information updated as of 7 Jan 2022]</p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Please note that the following key changes have been made to the “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=165">Updated Advisory on Safe Management Measures for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2</a>” and “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=165">Safe Management Measures Required for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2: Manual for Tour Operators and Tourist Guides</a>” with effect from 14 April 2021:</p> <ul> <li>For walking, cycling and kayaking tours, maximum number of participants has been increased from 20 pax to 50 pax*.</li> <li>8-hour time limit for tours will be removed.</li> <li>Applications for resumption of tours will be assessed on a per applicant (i.e. tour operators and tourist guides) basis, instead of individual tour itinerary. Tour operators and tourist guides that have not previously received approval from MTI to resume tours must still submit their application for tour resumption to STB. Tour operators and tourist guides that have already received approval to resume operations do not need to seek approval again.</li> </ul> <p>*<em>Sub-groups at prevailing maximum permissible group size (i.e. 8 pax) must be maintained.</em></p> <p>We would also wish to remind all tour operators and tourist guides approved for tour resumptions to continue to submit their weekly data to STB for internal public policy purposes.</p> <p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p>
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<p>ACRA related services will not be available from 12am to 8pm every Saturday due to maintenance of ACRA's system.</p> <p>We apologise for any inconvenience caused.</p> <p>For technical assistance, please contact helpdesk at 6833 6035 (office hours) or email TRUST_Helpdesk@tele-centre.com</p>
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Dear Travel Agents,<br><br>The new Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Licensing System (TRUST) is now live! Current licensees can login to their accounts via CorpPass.<br><br>For technical assistance, please contact the TRUST helpdesk at 6833 6035 between 8am to 8pm, Mondays to Fridays (excluding public holidays) or at <a href="mailto:trust_helpdesk@tele-centre.com">trust_helpdesk@tele-centre.com</a>.<br><br>We hope you have a pleasant experience with the new TRUST!
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<p>Dear Tourist Guides,</p><p>The CPF system will not be available on 4th June 2023 (Sunday), 0001 to 0800 hrs, due to a maintenance.</p><p>As such, tourist guide licence application submission on TRUST will be affected during this period.</p><p>We apologise for any inconvenience caused.</p><p> </p><p>Best regards,</p><p>Tourist Guide Department</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tourist Guides,</p><p>With the recent opening of the new Bird Paradise, the Attractions, Resorts & Entertainment Union (AREU) and Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore) are arranging with Mandai Wildlife Group for site visits for both members and non-members. </p><ul><li>For non-members, please click <a href="http://bitly.ws/Ej4I">here</a> to register.</li><li>For members, please refer to separate email invites from the associations.</li></ul><p>For more information, please reach out to any of the following tourist guide associations:</p><ul><li>Attractions, Resorts & Entertainment Union (AREU) - <a href="mailto:sintiong@ntuc.org.sg">sintiong@ntuc.org.sg</a></li><li>Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore) - <a href="mailto:members@societyoftouristguides.org.sg">members@societyoftouristguides.org.sg</a></li></ul><p>Best regards,</p><p>Tourist Guide Department</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tourist Guides,</p><p>For guides who wish to bring guests to the Sustainable Singapore Gallery at Marina Barrage, the Marina Barrage has clarified that all guiding in the Sustainable Singapore Gallery must be conducted by in-house guides.</p><p>Guided tours are available at every hour from 9am-5pm (closed for lunch from 12pm-1pm). The guided tour can be booked through <a href="https://www.pub.gov.sg/marinabarrage/ssg/tour">the online portal</a>. The Sustainable Singapore Gallery is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance.</p><p>Marina Barrage explained that the intent of in-house guided tours is to control the number of visitors going into the Gallery for safety purposes, and to offer a better experience for all visitors. Hence, if you are planning to bring your guests to the Sustainable Singapore Gallery at Marina Barrage, do ensure to book the guided tour online. </p><p>If you have any queries, you may write in to <a href="mailto:PUB_marinabarrage@pub.gov.sg">PUB_marinabarrage@pub.gov.sg</a> or visit the <a href="https://www.pub.gov.sg/marinabarrage">website</a> for more information.</p><p>Thank you for your understanding.</p><p>Regards,</p><p>Tourist Guide Department</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners,</p><p> </p><p>1 With the easing of Covid-19 border measures, tours and travels have resumed gradually in recent months. Singapore Customs would like to take the opportunity to update you on the Customs formalities and clearance procedures for inbound travellers and seek your co-operation to disseminate the information to your customers (i.e. travellers) for their compliance on their arrival in Singapore. You may consider doing so via your tour publicity materials or pre-tour briefings etc.</p><p>2 All arriving travellers including foreign visitors and returning residents are required to declare and pay the duty and Goods and Services Tax (GST) to bring in dutiable and GST payable goods exceeding their duty-free concession and GST import relief.</p><p>3 Travellers are granted GST import relief on new articles, souvenirs, gifts and food preparations (excluding intoxicating liquors, tobacco and goods imported for commercial purposes) brought into Singapore for their personal use or consumption. The relief amount is based on the value of goods the traveller brings in, and the duration that the traveller has spent outside Singapore. Travellers will have to pay GST on the value of the goods which is in excess of the GST import relief granted to them. You may refer to the Frequently Asked Questions at Annex A for more information.</p><p><strong>GST Import Relief*</strong></p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Time Spent Away from Singapore</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Value of Goods Granted GST Relief</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">48 hours or more</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Up to S$500</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Less than 48 hours</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Up to S$100</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>*Holders of a work permit, employment pass, student pass, dependent pass or long-term pass issued by the Singapore Government are not entitled to GST import relief.</p><p>4 Travellers are entitled to duty-free concession for liquors if the qualifying conditions are met. There is no duty-free concession and GST relief for all cigarettes and tobacco products brought into Singapore.</p><p><strong>Liquor Duty-Free Concession**</strong></p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Options</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Spirits</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Wine</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Beer</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">A</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">B</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">C</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">1 Litre</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">D</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">2 Litres</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">E</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">-</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">2 Litres</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>**There is no duty-free concession on liquors for travellers arriving from Malaysia.</p><p>5 For convenience, travellers are encouraged to make an advance declaration and payment of the GST and/or duty using the Customs@SG web application. Alternatively, travellers can declare and pay the GST and/or duty for their goods at the Customs Tax Payment Office. Travellers are advised to keep the receipts of their overseas purchases to facilitate the computation and verification of tax payable in Singapore.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Annex A</strong></p><p><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></p><p><strong>Q1. Why do I need to pay GST on my overseas purchases?</strong></p><p>A1. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a tax on the supply of goods and services in Singapore and on the importation of goods into Singapore. This means that GST is levied on goods supplied in Singapore, whether or not they are bought overseas or locally. The imposition of GST on goods imported into Singapore has been in force since 1 April 1994 when GST was implemented in Singapore. The practice is consistent with countries that levy a GST (also known as Value-Added Tax in some countries). All goods, whether from commercial shipments (i.e. shipping of goods) or hand-carried by travellers, are subject to GST at the prevailing rate.</p><p><strong>Q2. If I were to buy a branded bag for S$2,000 while holidaying overseas, and were to start using it during the trip, do I have to pay GST when I bring the bag home? If so, how is the GST computed?</strong></p><p>A2. Yes, the bag is subject to the prevailing GST rate of 8 per cent. If you have been away from Singapore for more than 48 hours, you will be entitled to a GST import relief amount of S$500. Therefore, the amount of GST that you will have to pay is S$120 [S$(2,000 - 500) x 8 per cent]. If you have been away from Singapore for less than 48 hours, you will be entitled to a GST import relief amount of S$100. Therefore, the amount of GST that you will have to pay is S$152 [S$(2,000 - 100) x 8 per cent].</p><p><strong>Q3. If I were to remove the price tag/packaging and use an item bought overseas immediately, is the item still subject to GST? Can it be considered a used article or personal belongings where GST import relief is granted?</strong></p><p>A3. The item in question is not considered as "used articles and personal belongings" and GST is payable if the value exceeds the GST import relief amount granted.</p><p><strong>Q4. If I already paid sales tax for an item purchased overseas and I did not claim tax refund, do I still have to pay GST?</strong></p><p>A4. GST is applicable on all items brought into Singapore regardless of whether foreign sales tax was paid for the item overseas, or whether the traveller has claimed tax refund for the item.</p><p><strong>Q5. If I were to receive a gift while overseas, how is the tax calculated since I will not have a receipt and will not be able to estimate the value of the gift?</strong></p><p>A5. If the receipt is not available, the value of the goods will be assessed based on the value of identical or similar goods when computing the GST payable.</p><p> </p><p>For more information, please refer to the following links.</p><ul><li>Customs Guide for Travellers: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/guide-for-travellers/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/guide-for-travellers/</a></li><li>Customs@SG Web Application: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/eservices/customs-sg-web-application/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/eservices/customs-sg-web-application/</a></li><li>Duty-Free Concession and GST Import Relief: <a href="https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/duty-free-concession-and-gst-relief/">https://www.customs.gov.sg/individuals/going-through-customs/arrivals/duty-free-concession-and-gst-relief/</a></li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of the Singapore Customs,</strong></p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners,</p><p>Singapore City Gallery, URA’s 3-storey visitor centre which reopened since Jan 2022 is pleased to welcome back visitors from China. As before, admission is free and opening hours are Mondays to Saturdays, 9am to 5pm. </p><p><strong>[NEW] Self-service booking platform for groups exceeding 20 pax</strong></p><p>City Gallery needs large groups (more than 20 pax) to book a timeslot for their visit to the Gallery for each visitor to have a pleasant learning experience. These large groups are required to submit a visit request <a href="https://safe.menlosecurity.com/https:/www.booking.gov.sg/public/services/8ZlQjdeM/availability?anonymous=true">online</a> via the new BookingSG platform. There are four 2-hour timeslots to select from - 9am to 11am, 11am to 1.00pm, 1.00pm to 3.00pm and 3.00pm to 5.00pm. Once a booking is submitted, a confirmation email will be sent instantaneously. Links are also available on this email for visitors to self-modify/cancel their bookings on their own. </p><p>It is designed for self-discovery learning where there are many interactive exhibits for group and individual learning, with vivid 3D walkthrough and animation videos. It will be a wonderful visitor experience to explore Singapore past, present and future, its land use planning and how digitalisation and innovative solutions help in making better decisions to shape our city and home of the future. You may wish to allocate between 1 to 1.5 hours at Singapore City Gallery.</p><p>Lastly, visitors are also encouraged to read up on the Gallery’s <a href="https://safe.menlosecurity.com/https:/www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Singapore-City-Gallery/More-info/FAQs-for-Singapore-City-Gallery">FAQs</a> and <a href="https://safe.menlosecurity.com/https:/www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Singapore-City-Gallery/More-info/Gallery-house-rules">House rules</a> before visiting. For any further queries beyond the two links shared, you may write to our <a href="https://www.ura.gov.sg/feedbackWeb/">online feedback form</a>.</p><p>Thank you.</p><p><i>Tour & Industry Development,</i></p><p><i>Singapore Tourism Board On behalf of Singapore City Gallery team at URA.</i></p>
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<p>The Ministry of Health (MOH) advises travellers to take the following preventive measures when travelling to the Middle East region.</p><p> </p><p><strong>PRE-TRAVEL PREPARATIONS</strong></p><ul><li>Consult your healthcare provider prior to travel.</li><li>Check on vaccination requirements and take all required vaccines.</li><li>Be up-to-date with vaccinations in the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) or National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) and routine vaccines.</li><li>Be aware of the situation in countries you intend to travel to.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS</strong></p><p>Travellers are advised to check the entry requirements imposed by the countries they intend to travel to. Travellers are also recommended to be up-to-date with vaccinations in the NAIS or NCIS.</p><figure class="table"><table style="overflow-wrap: break-word" style="border: 1px solid black"><tbody><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Vaccine</strong></td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><strong>Vaccination details</strong></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><i>Requirement</i></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">COVID-19 vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black"><p>Entry requirement to some countries in the Middle East region<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>.</p><p>COVID-19 vaccination is free for all Singaporeans and long-term residents in Singapore. The vaccination is especially important for the elderly and other vulnerable groups (e.g. pregnant women, persons with comorbidities) as they are at high risk of severe disease. For more information on COVID-19 vaccination, please visit <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs">https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs</a>.</p></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><i>Recommended</i></td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Influenza vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Recommended in the NAIS and NCIS for children aged 6 months to below 5 years, adults aged 65 years and older, and persons aged 5 to 64 years with certain medical conditions or indications. All other travellers may also consider getting the influenza vaccination prior to travel.</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Pneumococcal vaccine</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Recommended in the NAIS and NCIS for children below 5 years of age, adults aged 65 years and older, and persons aged 5 to 64 years with certain medical conditions.</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td style="border: 1px solid black">Routine vaccines</td><td style="border: 1px solid black">Other nationally recommended vaccinations include <strong>measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) and varicella</strong> vaccinations (for children and adults), and <strong>diphtheria and polio</strong> vaccinations (for children).</td></tr><tr style="border: 1px solid black"><td colspan="2"><p>Subsidies are available for eligible Singaporeans for nationally recommended vaccinations. Please consult your doctor for further advice regarding the above vaccinations or on other travel-related vaccinations prior to travel.</p><p>For more information on nationally recommended vaccinations, please visit the HealthHub at: <a href="https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate ">https://www.healthhub.sg/programmes/163/vaccinate </a></p></td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p><br><strong>GENERAL HEALTH ADVICE</strong></p><ul><li>Observe good personal hygiene at all times.</li><li>Practise frequent hand washing (e.g. before handling food or eating, after going to toilet, or when hands are soiled).</li><li>Adopt good food safety and hygiene practices and avoid consuming raw and unpasteurised milk, undercooked meats, or food prepared under unsanitary conditions, and properly washing fruits and vegetables before eating them.</li><li>Avoid close contact with persons who are unwell, such as those suffering from respiratory infections.</li><li>Avoid contact with camels and other animals, including not visiting camel farms. If contact has been made, thoroughly wash hands with soap.</li><li>Avoid visiting healthcare institutions in the Middle East unless it is necessary to do so as part of accessing medical care.</li><li>Travellers are advised to wear masks (i.e. surgical masks) especially when in crowded places.</li><li>Wear a surgical mask and seek medical attention promptly if you become unwell while travelling or within 2 weeks after returning to Singapore, and inform the doctor of your travel history.</li></ul><p> </p><p><strong>OTHER HEALTH ALERT(S)</strong></p><p><strong>Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)</strong></p><p>Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) is viral illness caused by the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Since 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded more than 2600 cases of MERS-CoV infection in 27 countries, mainly in the Middle East region<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a>. Majority of the cases were reported in Saudi Arabia, with recent cases in 2022 reported in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman.</p><p>Symptoms of MERS-CoV infection include fever, cough and shortness of breath. MERS-CoV infection may result in severe illness and complications, such as pneumonia, and death occurs in about a third of infected individuals. The virus is present in infected dromedary camels, and can spread to humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. It may also spread through close contact with infected persons.</p><p>For the latest update on the Health Advisory, please refer to <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/novel-coronavirus-infection-(mers-cov)">https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/novel-coronavirus-infection-(mers-cov)</a></p><p> </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> Please visit MFA’s website for details on the prevailing requirements for entry into the different countries: <a href="https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Where-Are-You-Travelling-To ">https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Where-Are-You-Travelling-To </a></p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> For the latest update, please refer to WHO’s website at: <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-mers">https://www.who.int/health-topics/middle-east-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-mers</a></p><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of the Ministry of Health (MOH),</strong></p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p>
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<p>Dear Industry Partners, </p><p> </p><p>The Sri Mariamman Temple, located at No. 244 South Bridge Road, is one of the Temples administered by the Hindu Endowments Board which is under the purview of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. </p><p>Being a National Monument, the Temple has a large flow of devotees and tourists visiting the Temple daily. This year, the annual Fire Walking Ceremony will be held on Sunday, 16 October 2022. The preceding ceremonies will commence from 30 September 2022 to 17 October 2022. </p><p>During the period of the ceremonies, large congregations of more than 3000 devotees are expected to patronize the Temple daily. Due to the large number of participating devotees, it would not be possible for tourists to visit the Temple. As such, we would appreciate it if you could advice the tour operators to avoid bringing tourists to the Temple from 30 September 2022 to 17 October 2022. </p><p> </p><p>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p><strong>On behalf of Sri Mariamman Temple,</strong></p><p>Tour & Industry Development Team</p>
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<p>On 24 Aug 2022, the Multi-Ministry Taskforce (MTF) announced further easing of Safe Management Measures (SMMs). In line with this, STB has updated the SMMs applicable to tours.</p><p>These measures may be adjusted further, subject to the prevailing public health situation in Singapore. Please refer to key updates below. </p><p>With effect from 29 Aug 2022:</p><ul><li>Mask-wearing is mandatory only on public transport (i.e. on MRT/LRT and public buses) and indoor public transport facilities (e.g. boarding areas at bus interchanges and MRT platforms). Tour buses are exempted from mask-wearing.<br> </li><li>For tours that involve entry into settings with Vaccination-Differentiated Safe Management Measures (VDS) such as F&B establishments<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn1">[1]</a>, vaccination status checks are not required. The onus is on the individuals to abide by the rules, where he/she must be:<br><br><ul><li>fully vaccinated<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn2">[2]</a>;</li><li>have recovered from Covid-19<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn3">[3]</a> (if applicable);</li><li>children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth)<a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftn4">[4];</a></li><li>certified medically ineligible <a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a>.<br> </li></ul></li></ul><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref1">[1]</a> This includes F&B at regular F&B establishments, hawker centres and coffee shops. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref2">[2]</a> This means they must have received the appropriate regimen of vaccines under the World Health Organisation Emergency Use Listing (WHO EUL). Individuals may check whether they are considered "fully vaccinated" at <a href="https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs---post-vaccination-matters">https://www.moh.gov.sg/covid-19/vaccination/faqs---post-vaccination-matters</a>.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref3">[3]</a> All recovered persons from COVID-19 who are not fully vaccinated will only be given a 180-day exemption after infection to enter settings where VDS is implemented, including F&B establishments. </p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref4">[4]</a> A grace period will be extended to children born in December 2010 to allow them sufficient time to get fully vaccinated. In addition, from 15 March 2022, unvaccinated children aged 12 years and below (based on year of birth) need not be from the same household to be included within a group entering premises or participating in activities with VDS.</p><p><a href="https://batik-trust.stb.gov.sg/admin/#_ftnref5">[5]</a> To be certified as medically ineligible, individuals may visit a doctor familiar with their medical condition, or alternatively, any clinic or hospital to obtain a hardcopy doctor-certified memo. </p><p> </p><p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.<br>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Newly Licensed Tourist Guides, </p><p> </p><p>Attached is the Tourist Guide Welcome Kit which aims to provide you information on initiatives and platforms that would be useful for you over the course of your career. The welcome kit encompasses the following sections:</p><ul><li>Application for Tourist Guide (TG) Licence in TRUST</li><li>TG Licence Renewal</li><li>Multi-Language Proficiency Test (MLPT)</li><li>Area Tourist Guide (ATG) Scheme</li><li>Recognition Awards</li><li>Contact Information</li></ul><p> </p><p>We wish you all the best for your future endeavours. Thank you.</p><p> </p><p>Regards</p><p>Tourist Guide Department</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tour Operators and Tourist Guides,</p><p> </p><p>We are pleased to provide some additional heritage resources kindly provided by NLB:</p><p> </p><p><strong>Places and Stories - Collection of historical write-ups, presented as stories, for tourist guides, grouped by regions in Singapore</strong></p><p><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DAFBrdqQ0Rk/Vili0ZEdzdBWLAfQa4MB2w/view?utm_content=DAFBrdqQ0Rk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink">Places & Stories (canva.com)</a></p><p>This presentation is for Tourist Guides who are seeking to deepen and broaden their knowledge on interesting events at various tourist sites.</p><p>The collection of stories is specially curated by NLB’s librarians, with references to resources where more details and photographs can be obtained. It is useful for Tourist Guides to help give their tourists a more varied and nostalgic experience during their tours.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Collections and Services in National Library / National Archives</strong></p><p><i>Collections Guide (See Attached)</i></p><p>This presentation is for Tourist Guides who are looking for additional resources to do research on the history and culture of different tourist sites.</p><p>The presentation gives details on how to access the various online and on-site materials available to tourist guides and members of the public for research purposes, including location of resources, short summaries of resources, and any applicable fees. A summary of the resources can be found on page 39.</p><p> </p><p>Do also check out the <a href="https://curiocity.nlb.gov.sg/">Curiocity</a> website for more heritage materials.</p><p> </p><p>Yours Faithfully,</p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tourist Guides, </p><p> </p><p>We are pleased to announce the launch of the new Digital Mandatory Refresher Course (MRC). </p><p> </p><p>With the MRC converted into a digital courseware, which fully replaces the current classroom / virtual format, tourist guides (TGs) will be able to access the MRC modules and attempt the MRC assessment at their convenience. The new digital learning portal also serves as an information repository, which all TGs can access, even when his/ her licence is not due for renewal.</p><p> </p><p><strong>If your licence is expiring in the next 6 months</strong>, passing the MRC assessment is part of the licence renewal conditions. You may log in to the digital MRC to access the MRC modules and attempt the MRC assessment. If you have attended the MRC classroom/ virtual module and passed the MRC assessment as part of this licence renewal cycle, you will not be required to attempt the MRC digital module.</p><p> </p><p><strong>If your licence is not expiring in the next 6 months</strong>, you may log in to the digital MRC and use the learning portal as an information repository. You will not be required to attempt the MRC assessment until 6 months before licence expiry. </p><p> </p><p>An email with the above information and login details will be sent to each licensed TG to guide you on how to access the MRC learning portal at <a href="https://mrc.com.sg/login/index.php">https://mrc.com.sg/</a>. </p><p> </p><p>Enclosed are the user guides and FAQs for reference.</p><ul><li>User Guides </li><li>FAQs </li></ul><p> </p><p>For any further queries or assistance required, you may email the MRC helpdesk at <a href="mailto:support.stb@znxhelpdesk.com">support.stb@znxhelpdesk.com</a>. </p><p> </p><p>Thank you. </p><p> </p><p>Yours faithfully, </p><p> </p><p>Tourist Guide Department</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Dear Tourist Guides,<br><br>One of the recommendations by the Tourist Guide Taskforce set up in 2015, is the Area Tourist Guide (ATG) scheme. The ATG scheme was previously known as the Specialised Tourist Guide scheme. The scheme has been renamed after taking in feedback that 'Area' refers more accurately to a guide who possesses expertise in an area of expertise.<br><br>The ATG scheme allows domain knowledge experts to share their passion and knowledge with visitors. To ensure visitors receive good guiding services, these individuals will need to have the required domain knowledge and requisite guiding skills in the area of specialisation. The scheme also allows better segmentation of guides for visitors to identify TGs according to their special interest.<br><br>The ATG scheme will be soft-launched today. Going with a soft launch will allow for refinements to the scheme based on industry feedback (where necessary). Please see attached application form and infographics for more information.<br><br>Regards,<br>Tourist Guide Department<br>Singapore Tourism Board<br> </p>
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<p>Dear Travel Agents and Tourist Guides</p><p> </p><p>To ensure a safe working environment, businesses must adhere to sector-specific safe management measures. Attached is a list of infographics for ease of reference:</p><ul><li>Annex A - Summary of relevant latest measures</li><li>Annex B - Reminder on handling inbound travellers</li></ul><p>We seek your cooperation in playing a part in the fight against COVID-19. Thank you.</p><p> </p><p>[Information updated as of 7 Jan 2022]</p><p>Yours faithfully,</p><p> </p><p>Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Division</p><p>Singapore Tourism Board</p>
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<p>Please note that the following key changes have been made to the “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=165">Updated Advisory on Safe Management Measures for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2</a>” and “<a href="https://trust.stb.gov.sg/site/content/tagaem/landing-page/bulletin-board/bulletin-board-news.html?id=165">Safe Management Measures Required for Tours Re-Opening in Phase 2: Manual for Tour Operators and Tourist Guides</a>” with effect from 14 April 2021:</p> <ul> <li>For walking, cycling and kayaking tours, maximum number of participants has been increased from 20 pax to 50 pax*.</li> <li>8-hour time limit for tours will be removed.</li> <li>Applications for resumption of tours will be assessed on a per applicant (i.e. tour operators and tourist guides) basis, instead of individual tour itinerary. Tour operators and tourist guides that have not previously received approval from MTI to resume tours must still submit their application for tour resumption to STB. Tour operators and tourist guides that have already received approval to resume operations do not need to seek approval again.</li> </ul> <p>*<em>Sub-groups at prevailing maximum permissible group size (i.e. 8 pax) must be maintained.</em></p> <p>We would also wish to remind all tour operators and tourist guides approved for tour resumptions to continue to submit their weekly data to STB for internal public policy purposes.</p> <p>For more details on the changes, please refer to the attached documents.</p>
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Dear Tourist Guides,<br><br>The new Travel Agents and Tourist Guides Licensing System (TRUST) is now live! Current licensees can login to their accounts via SingPass/Portal ID.<br><br>For technical assistance, please contact the TRUST helpdesk at 6833 6035 between 8am to 8pm, Mondays to Fridays (excluding public holidays) or at <a href="mailto:trust_helpdesk@tele-centre.com">trust_helpdesk@tele-centre.com</a>.<br><br>We hope you have a pleasant experience with the new TRUST!
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Dear Tourist Guides,<br><br>With effect from 1 January 2019, public areas within the Orchard Road precinct will be designated as a No Smoking Zone (NSZ) where smoking will only be allowed at Designated Smoking Areas (DSAs). Visitors to Orchard Road can look forward to a healthier and more pleasant shopping environment. <br><br>Please refer to the attached advisory letter and the DSAs boundaries at Orchard Road from National Environment Agency (NEA) for more information. <br><br>It is advisable to check online for the latest Designated Smoking Area at https://www.nea.gov.sg/ORNSZ <br><br>Any feedback or clarifications, please contact officers from NEA, Ms Amanda Ng at DID 67319427 or Ms Denise Lee at DID 67319254<br><br>Regards,<br>Tourist Guide Licensing Department <br>Singapore Tourism Board <br>
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A Workgroup consisting of representatives from the Society of Tourist Guides (Singapore), Tour Guide Chapter and Singapore Tourism Board have developed a Code of Conducts and Ethics (CCE) for the Tourist Guide (TG) profession. This CCE is created by TGs for TGs and will help to project a positive image of TGs to both locals and tourists and show the TGs' commitment to maintain the standards of professional conduct that are being established. There will be no penalties attached to this CCE. <br><br>Attached please find a copy of the CCE for your reference.
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