February 4, 2026 | 04:30 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Singapore has begun enforcing a No Boarding Directive (NBD) as part of enhanced pre-departure screening measures.
The policy, implemented by the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) on January 30, 2026, aims to strengthen border security by preventing high-risk or unqualified travelers from boarding flights to Singapore.
Previously, immigration checks were conducted upon arrival at Singapore’s airports. Under the new system, screening now takes place before passengers board their flights. The directive applies to all flights bound for Singapore, including those arriving at Changi Airport and Seletar Airport.
According to the ICA, the NBD allows authorities to stop unauthorized or undesirable travelers, whose details have been identified in advance, from boarding flights to Singapore.
By intercepting such passengers before departure, the policy seeks to prevent potential security threats from reaching the country.
Checks Begin at Point of Departure
To implement the directive, the ICA has instructed airline operators to cooperate with pre-departure inspections. Airlines are required to submit passenger information to the ICA prior to departure for screening. If an NBD notification is issued, airlines must deny boarding to the affected passenger at check-in.
In some cases, airlines may also be required to carry out additional checks, such as verifying visas or ensuring completion of the Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC), before allowing passengers or crew members to board flights to Singapore.
Reasons for Denied Boarding
As reported by Travel and Leisure Asia, passengers may be denied boarding for several reasons, including holding an invalid visa, having a passport with less than six months’ validity, failing to properly complete the SG Arrival Card, or being flagged as high-risk due to adverse immigration or security records.
Passengers who are denied boarding may contact Singaporean authorities through the ICA’s feedback channel to seek permission to enter the country. If approval is granted, they may rebook their flights.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Airlines that fail to comply with the No Boarding Directive may be found in violation of Singapore’s immigration laws. According to The Independent SG, offenders may face fines of up to S$10,000 (approximately Rp131 million).
Similar penalties apply to airlines or pilots who knowingly allow prohibited passengers to board flights.
In addition to fines, violations may also result in prison sentences of up to six months, or both.
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