Singapore has announced that it is likely to liberalise travel restrictions for people who have been vaccinated against COVID-19, subject to proof that vaccines have shown significant control in the spread of the virus. According to media reports, the lifting of all travel restrictions is being discussed considering the World Economic Forum (WEF) scheduled for May this year.

Held in Switzerland every year, the WEF, will convene its special annual meeting in Singapore due to the coronavirus dilemma in Europe.

Until now, Singapore has mitigated the spread of coronavirus through a large-scale ban on foreign travel, limited business/travel agreements with countries, and the engagement of an effective contact tracing system. As a consequence, infections have dwindled, and remained low since the country lifted its lockdown measures in June, 2020, reports said. 

Lawrence Wong, co-head of Singapore’s virus taskforce, said in parliament, “If there is clear evidence that transmission risks can be lowered significantly (by vaccines), we will certainly consider some relaxation to the SHN (stay-home-notice) regime for vaccinated travellers.” He also proposed the possibility of a reduction in restrictions for the WEF now shifted to Singapore. 

This proposition comes a week after Singapore became one of the first Asian countries to embark upon a National Vaccination Programme.

Currently, incoming travellers are directed to conform to the prevailing COVID-19 SHN rules. Individuals from low-risk countries are required to undergo a seven-day-quarantine at their place of residence, and present a negative COVID-19 test before arrival, and before the conclusion of their quarantine period. Others are supposed to isolate at government facilities, and undergo tests. Travellers are also required to wear a tracking device during quarantine.