Heavy congestion expected at Singapore–Malaysia land checkpoints over Qing Ming and Good Friday long weekend

Travellers can expect longer waiting times to clear immigration as ICA ramps up its security checks in view of the heightened global security situation, including recent developments in the Middle East.

Travellers driving to and from Malaysia over the upcoming Qing Ming period and Good Friday long weekend (3 to 5 April 2026) should expect heavier-than-usual traffic at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints and plan for longer travel times.

According to Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), delays are being driven not just by the holiday surge, but also by tighter security checks on arriving travellers, cargo and vehicles, against the backdrop of a heightened global security situation and developments in the Middle East.

As such, ICA has advised travellers to check traffic conditions at the land checkpoints before starting their journey, and to use QR codes generated via the MyICA mobile app, which can speed up passport-less immigration clearance.

On the roads, ICA is again stressing basic checkpoint etiquette: no queue cutting, and follow officers’ instructions. Errant motorists will be required to re-queue, and ICA may take firm action against travellers who fail to comply with officers’ instructions or commit offences at the checkpoints.

The area around Woodlands Checkpoint remains a work zone, with ongoing construction and road works as part of its redevelopment. Motorists are advised to slow down, look out for changing lane markings and diversions, and follow the directions of traffic marshals and on-ground officers.

Over 5mn travellers crossed Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during March holidays and Hari Raya Puasa weekend

ICA's records showed that over 5mn travellers crossed the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the recent March school holidays and Hari Raya Puasa weekend from 13 to 22 March 2026.

Traffic peaked on 18 March 2026, with more than 564,000 travellers crossing in a single day. During peak hours, car travellers experienced waiting times of up to three hours for immigration clearance due to traffic tailback from Malaysia.

Things to note for a smoother journey

To help ease congestion during the Qing Ming period and Good Friday long weekend, ICA has issued several travel tips for travellers crossing the land checkpoints.

All travellers

• Ensure that your passport has a remaining validity of at least six months.
• All short-term visitors, including holders of in-principle approval for long-term pass, are required to submit their Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) with health declaration via the MyICA mobile application within three days prior to their arrival in Singapore.
• Singapore Permanent Residents who have renewed their passport should ensure that their Re-Entry Permit is transferred to the new passport.
• Long-Term Pass holders must notify ICA or the Ministry of Manpower of any change in their passport particulars before re-entering Singapore.
• Do not bring in prohibited or controlled items.
  • Effective 1 September 2025, individuals caught possessing, using, or importing e-vaporisers will face higher penalties. Short-term visitors who reoffend may be barred from re-entering Singapore, while long-term pass holders who reoffend may have their passes revoked on a third offence, and could face deportation and a ban from re-entering the country.

For all motorists

• Travellers are encouraged to use MyICA-generated QR codes for faster clearance where available. More information can be found on ICA's website.
• Maintain lane discipline and avoid queue cutting, which can cause congestion and safety risks. Errant motorists may be directed to re-queue.

For all bus passengers

• Use QR codes for quicker clearance at automated and Special Assistance Lanes (SAL).
• Wheelchair users and family groups of up to four, including children below six, can use SALs for faster processing.

For drivers of foreign vehicles

• Ensure that your vehicle’s Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) is valid. Drivers without a valid Autopass card, the VEP approval email from LTA, or valid insurance will be turned back. More details on VEP application can be found on the LTA One Motoring website.
• Settle any outstanding fines you may have with the respective government agencies. Those with outstanding fines may be denied entry into Singapore.