SINGAPORE (Azat TV) – Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued a stern warning regarding ‘very heavy traffic’ expected at both the Woodlands and Tuas land checkpoints during the upcoming Lunar New Year period, from February 13 to 23, 2026. This period of anticipated congestion will coincide with intensified border enforcement efforts aimed at curbing the smuggling of contraband, particularly e-vaporisers, leading to potentially significant delays for travellers.
Anticipating Unprecedented Traffic at Woodlands and Tuas
In a media release dated February 6, 2026, the ICA advised travellers to brace for longer waiting times and to meticulously plan their journeys. The warning comes on the heels of a record-breaking year-end travel surge between November 21, 2025, and January 1, 2026, when more than 22 million travellers cleared the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. The busiest day during this period, December 19, saw over 588,000 individuals clear immigration in a single day, surpassing the previous record of 578,000 crossings on June 20, 2025.
During these peak periods, car travellers experienced wait times of up to three hours for immigration clearance, primarily due to traffic tailbacks originating from Malaysia. The ICA expects similar, if not heavier, pressure on the land checkpoints during the Lunar New Year festivities.
Heightened Enforcement Against Contraband, Including E-Vaporisers
A significant factor contributing to the expected delays is the ICA’s commitment to intensifying checks against the smuggling of prohibited items. Officers will be stepping up enforcement against contraband such as e-vaporisers, firecrackers, and bak kwa (sweet-savoury dried meat). These additional checks are a direct cause for the anticipated longer clearance times for all travellers.
This intensified scrutiny reflects a broader push for order at Singapore’s borders. Since September 1, 2025, penalties for e-vaporiser offences have been significantly increased. Repeat offenders now face severe consequences, including bans from Singapore, revocation of passes, deportation, and restrictions on future re-entry. The authority’s focus on e-vaporisers underscores an ongoing effort to combat their illegal importation and use.
Navigating the Checkpoints: Advice for Travellers
To mitigate congestion and ensure smoother passage, the ICA has provided several key recommendations for travellers:
- Check Traffic Conditions: Before embarking on their journey, travellers are urged to check real-time traffic updates via the One Motoring website or ICA’s social media channels.
- Consider Cross-Border Buses: For those who must travel during the peak Lunar New Year period, opting for cross-border bus services is recommended as an alternative to driving, which may help avoid the most severe congestion.
- Utilise QR Codes: The MyICA mobile app offers a feature for generating QR codes, enabling more convenient and passport-less immigration clearance. However, travellers are reminded that their physical passports must still be carried for overseas travel.
- Ensure Document Validity: All travellers must ensure their passports have at least six months’ validity. Singapore Permanent Residents who have renewed their passports should verify that their Re-Entry Permit has been transferred. Long-Term Pass holders need to notify ICA or the Ministry of Manpower of any passport changes before re-entering Singapore.
- Vehicle Requirements: Drivers of foreign vehicles must ensure their Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP), Autopass card, and insurance are valid. Any outstanding fines must be settled, as motorists with unpaid fines may be denied entry.
- Cooperate and Comply: The ICA stressed the importance of cooperating with officers, observing traffic rules, and maintaining proper lane discipline. Queue cutting can exacerbate congestion and compromise safety, with errant motorists facing re-queueing or other enforcement actions.
Broader Context of Border Security
The ICA’s comprehensive advisory extends beyond mere traffic management, reflecting a steadfast commitment to national security and border integrity. By intensifying checks on contraband, the authority aims to prevent illegal items from entering Singapore, protecting public health and safety, especially concerning prohibited items like e-vaporisers. The proactive measures and strict enforcement policies are designed to maintain order and security at one of the world’s busiest land crossings.
The heightened vigilance at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the Lunar New Year period highlights Singapore’s consistent and firm stance on border security, reinforcing the message that convenience will be balanced with strict enforcement against prohibited items, particularly in the face of increased travel volumes.