Singapore is tightening its anti-vape laws. Travellers risk hefty fines, deportation, and entry bans if caught with e-cigarettes, even while transiting at Changi. (Left: Image by Lennon Cheng. Right: Image by Vaporesso.)
Planning a quick getaway, business trip, or even just a transit through Changi Airport? If you vape, you’ll want to pay extra attention. Singapore is tightening its anti-vape rules starting 1 September 2025, and the new penalties aren’t something to take lightly.
Here’s the deal
- Caught with a vape? It will be confiscated, and you will get fined.
- Repeat offender? Things get harsher—if you are on a Short-Term Visit Pass (the kind Malaysians typically get at the checkpoint), you could be banned from re-entering Singapore.
- On a long-term pass like Employment Pass, S Pass, work permit, Student’s Pass, or Dependant’s Pass? A third offence could mean your pass is revoked and you risk being deported and banned from entering Singapore again.
This doesn’t stop at regular vapes. If you’re caught with Kpods (etomidate vapes) or test positive for the drug, you face the same penalties (revoked passes, deportation, and a permanent ban), plus rehabilitation and drug testing.
The fines are also going up
- Under 18 years old: SGD500 (about RM2,111) for the first offence (previously SGD300)
- 18 and above: SGD700 (about RM2,955) for the first offence (previously SGD500)
What Malaysians should know
- At the Causeway or Changi: Expect more signs, announcements, and even bright red “vape bins” where travellers can dump their devices before entering Singapore.
- Transit passengers aren’t exempt. If you’re just passing through Changi Airport, you’ll also need to get rid of your vape or risk being caught.
Singapore’s Health Minister Ong Ye Kung summed it up bluntly: “Drugs are very serious. Chewing gum is not allowed. And vapes, please dump them.” So, if you’re hopping across the border for shopping, work, or a quick makan trip, the safest move is simple: leave your vape at home.
