By: Patricia Yap
Locals and other people staying in Vietnam and Australia can now enter Singapore starting October 8.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) recently said it will be opening its borders to allow visitors coming in from Australia (except from the State of Victoria) and Vietnam. The two countries will now be unilaterally allowed into Singapore along with New Zealand and Brunei.
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CAAS authorities have confirmed that they see Australia and Vietnam as having comprehensive and safe public health surveillance systems and proper control of the spread of the COVID-19 virus in their countries, warranting the access to Singapore.
Over the last 28 days, Vietnam had no reported new cases of COVID-19 while Australia (except Victoria state) had only 0.02 cases per 100,000 people. “The risk of importation from these countries is low,” said a CAAS official.
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This is another big step up for Singapore, as the visits from these countries will improve and revive their country’s tourism and travel markets. Together with the previous lifting of border restrictions from New Zealand and Brunei, these two countries will greatly help to further alleviate the losses of Singapore’s Changi Airport, a major contributor to Singapore’s economy.
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Although travel restrictions are easing for these countries, it is still important for everyone to practice safety. Upon arrival to Singapore, visitors will first have to undergo a swab test. And for the duration of their stay, visitors must use the TraceTogether application, while taking the necessary precautions imposed by the Singapore government.