The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Singapore in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Singapore
- Is it currently safe to travel to Singapore?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Singapore?
- Why take out travel insurance for Singapore?
- Travel Insurance Coverage for Singapore
- The cost of travel insurance for Singapore
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Singapore
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Singapore?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Singapore: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Singapore covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended due to Singapore's very high medical costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is excellent but expensive; a hospital stay can easily exceed AUD 1,000 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Singapore typically costs between AUD 30 and AUD 60.
5. Good to know: You must complete the free Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) online before your arrival in Singapore.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Singapore.
The best travel insurance plans for Singapore
Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
---|---|---|
HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1.7M | The highest standard for travel to Singapore. - very high medical cover - includes repatriation - wide guarantees |
Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1.7M | Strong support for short or long stays. - 24/7 assistance - no deductible - covers cancellation |
Tourist Card | AUD 850,000 | Smart pick for tourists in Singapore. - solid medical limits - emergency assistance - attractive pricing |
Travel Pass Monde | AUD 1.2M | Balanced coverage for travellers abroad. - extensive hospitalization - repatriation - large network |
Globe Partner | AUD 500,000 | Good for standard stays in Singapore. - medical care overseas - civil liability - evacuation included |
Globe Traveller | AUD 850,000 | Simple but reliable for trips to Singapore. - covers essentials - fast reimbursement - clear terms |
- very high medical cover
- includes repatriation
- wide guarantees
- 24/7 assistance
- no deductible
- covers cancellation
- solid medical limits
- emergency assistance
- attractive pricing
- extensive hospitalization
- repatriation
- large network
- medical care overseas
- civil liability
- evacuation included
- covers essentials
- fast reimbursement
- clear terms
Is it currently safe to travel to Singapore?
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade rates Singapore as safe for travel and recommends exercising normal safety precautions. There are no specific restrictions or advisories against travel to Singapore at this time.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: crime rates in Singapore remain among the lowest worldwide, but petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur in busy places like Orchard Road and Bugis Street markets. Remain alert to personal belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Health risks: dengue fever is endemic, and cases are reported year-round, particularly during the wet seasons. Access to medical care is excellent but private treatment at hospitals such as Mount Elizabeth or Gleneagles can be extremely expensive.
- Legal risks: Singapore enforces strict laws with severe penalties for actions considered minor in Australia, including possession of chewing gum or jaywalking. Drug offences carry mandatory death penalties, and even small amounts can result in arrest.
- Cultural and environmental risks: smoke haze from regional fires can severely affect air quality from June to October, impacting those with respiratory conditions. Respect local customs such as the ban on public eating on certain public transport lines.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Singapore.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Singapore?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for travellers from Australia to enter Singapore.
While not required for entry, travel insurance is strongly recommended due to the high cost of medical care and the risk of sudden illness or accident. Having insurance can help cover expenses such as hospitalisation, emergency repatriation, and medical treatment, which are not subsidised for tourists.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Singapore. This high percentage is mainly due to the region’s expensive healthcare system and the need for comprehensive protection abroad.
Why take out travel insurance for Singapore?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Singapore.
Healthcare costs in Singapore are high, especially for foreigners who usually access private hospitals such as Mount Elizabeth Hospital or Gleneagles. Even public facilities like Singapore General Hospital require full payment up front and do not subsidise care for tourists.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Singapore.
Example of medical treatment | Cost at Mount Elizabeth Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
---|---|---|
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 7,500 SGD (8,600 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 5,800 SGD (6,650 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
I need to be repatriated | 48,000 SGD (55,000 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 15,000 SGD (17,250 AUD) | up to 1,500,000 AUD |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance Coverage for Singapore
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Singapore.
Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
---|---|
🏥 Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, hospitalisation, surgery and medication in both private and public Singapore hospitals. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AUD 1,000,000. |
✈️ Repatriation | Arranges and covers evacuation or repatriation to Australia in case of serious accident or illness. Minimum recommended limit: AUD 500,000. |
👨🦽 Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally injure someone or damage property in Singapore. Choose coverage of at least AUD 1,000,000. |
🧳 Luggage and personal items | Covers loss, theft, or damage to luggage and personal belongings. We recommend at least AUD 5,000 per person. |
📞 24/7 assistance | Offers support for legal, medical or travel emergencies at any time. Always ensure unlimited access to an English-speaking helpline. |
🦟 Infectious disease coverage | Pays for medical costs if hospitalised for dengue, Zika or other tropical diseases. Look for special protection with a minimum limit of AUD 100,000. |
🛑 Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses prepaid expenses if your trip is cancelled or interrupted unexpectedly. Limit of at least AUD 10,000. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AUD 1,000,000.
Minimum recommended limit: AUD 500,000.
Choose coverage of at least AUD 1,000,000.
We recommend at least AUD 5,000 per person.
Always ensure unlimited access to an English-speaking helpline.
Look for special protection with a minimum limit of AUD 100,000.
Limit of at least AUD 10,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often gives limited coverage, with low benefit limits and common exclusions. For peace of mind, choose an established insurer with comprehensive cover. Compare leading offers on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Singapore
Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
---|---|---|
1 week | 25 years old | AUD 39 |
2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 61 |
1 month | 35 years old | AUD 92 |
1 month | 70 years old | AUD 212 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
Aussie travellers, your travel insurance cost for Singapore depends on several factors: your age, the length of your stay, the level of cover you choose, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Given Singapore's high medical costs, it's crucial to consider these to find a policy that provides adequate protection without breaking the bank.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Singapore
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Singapore while keeping good coverage:
Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
---|---|---|
🗓️ Trip duration | The total number of days in Singapore will determine the overall price of your insurance. | Limit your insured period to actual travel dates to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage. |
🎒 Level of coverage | Higher coverage can increase costs, but Singapore's medical expenses are significant. | Choose adequate medical cover, around AUD 500,000, without overinsuring on less relevant guarantees. |
🚶 Traveller's age | Older travellers generally pay more due to increased risk, especially over 65. | Compare multiple providers, as Heymondo does not increase prices for people over 62. |
👫 Number of travellers | Family plans or group policies can offer savings compared to buying single plans. | Look for policies with family or group discounts to reduce the per-person rate. |
🎯 Activities planned | Some activities like hiking or diving may require extra cover, which comes at a higher rate. | Limit policy extras to only the activities you actually plan to do in Singapore. |
⚕️ Existing medical conditions | Declaring pre-existing conditions increases the premium, but non-disclosure can void claims. | Compare specialist providers that best fit your health profile to avoid unnecessary extra fees. |
⏳ Deductible/excess chosen | Higher excess reduces premiums but means more out of pocket if you claim in Singapore. | Opt for a higher deductible if you are comfortable self-funding minor claims to lower your insurance cost. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Singapore?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage like credit card insurance or private or public health systems can protect you during a trip to Singapore. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
Type of insurance | Valid in Singapore? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
---|---|---|---|
Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | Emergency care not covered, no reimbursement for overseas medical or hospitalisation costs. | Travel insurance offers up to AUD 1,000,000 for medical, hospital, evacuation, repatriation and 24/7 assistance. |
Private health insurance | Limited coverage | May cover limited overseas medical or evacuation, but usually not full costs and only up to AUD 50,000. | Travel insurance can cover medical up to AUD 1,000,000, baggage loss, cancellations and emergency evacuations. |
Classic credit card (ANZ, Westpac, NAB) | Limited coverage | Covers hospitalisation or evacuation, but may require pre-approval and trip must meet minimum spending requirements. | Travel insurance offers cover for trip changes, flight delays and higher limits for medical and personal liability. |
Premium credit card (American Express Platinum, CBA Diamond, Citi Prestige) | Limited coverage | May cover hospital and some baggage loss up to about AUD 500,000. Often excludes pre-existing medical or adventure sports. | Travel insurance reimburses up to AUD 1,000,000, including lost/delayed baggage, sports accidents and missed flights. |
Example
While on holiday, Chloe contracted severe dengue fever in Singapore, resulting in a hospital bill of AU$25,000. Her CommBank credit card's included insurance only covered AU$5,000, and her Australian health fund covered nothing. She faced a staggering AU$20,000 out-of-pocket expense for a common, mosquito-borne illness.
Expert advice
Trip interruption for a relative’s illness is often excluded from credit card and health fund policies. Check your policy's fine print to avoid nasty surprises abroad. In all cases, buying dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip is safer and more reassuring.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Singapore?
Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit Singapore for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. You will need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed Singapore Arrival Card, confirmed onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Singapore?
To buy travel insurance for Singapore, first compare plans using the HelloSafe comparison tool. Carefully check cover and exclusions, paying attention to medical care in Singapore. Purchase your chosen policy online, and make sure to download or print your insurance certificate after purchase.
Is travel insurance mandatory for entry into Singapore?
Travel insurance is not legally required to enter Singapore for Australian travellers. However, it is strongly recommended due to the very high costs of medical care and potential emergency expenses during your stay.
What kind of medical costs might I face in Singapore as a traveller?
Medical expenses in Singapore can be very high. Hospital stays or emergency treatments may cost several thousand Australian dollars, with daily rates for private hospitals frequently exceeding AUD 1,000. Without adequate travel insurance, you will need to cover these costs yourself.
Can I buy travel insurance after arriving in Singapore?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before you leave Australia, as cover often starts from the departure date. Some global insurers offer limited cover if purchased after departure, but this may have significant exclusions or waiting periods for illness and accidents.
How much does travel insurance for Singapore typically cost?
A basic travel insurance policy for a one-week trip to Singapore usually starts from around AUD 40–50 per person. The cost can increase based on age, pre-existing health conditions, the policy’s coverage limits, and any optional extras you require, such as adventure sports coverage.
Do I need a visa to travel to Singapore?
Australian citizens do not need a visa to visit Singapore for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. You will need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, a completed Singapore Arrival Card, confirmed onward travel, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Singapore?
To buy travel insurance for Singapore, first compare plans using the HelloSafe comparison tool. Carefully check cover and exclusions, paying attention to medical care in Singapore. Purchase your chosen policy online, and make sure to download or print your insurance certificate after purchase.
Is travel insurance mandatory for entry into Singapore?
Travel insurance is not legally required to enter Singapore for Australian travellers. However, it is strongly recommended due to the very high costs of medical care and potential emergency expenses during your stay.
What kind of medical costs might I face in Singapore as a traveller?
Medical expenses in Singapore can be very high. Hospital stays or emergency treatments may cost several thousand Australian dollars, with daily rates for private hospitals frequently exceeding AUD 1,000. Without adequate travel insurance, you will need to cover these costs yourself.
Can I buy travel insurance after arriving in Singapore?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before you leave Australia, as cover often starts from the departure date. Some global insurers offer limited cover if purchased after departure, but this may have significant exclusions or waiting periods for illness and accidents.
How much does travel insurance for Singapore typically cost?
A basic travel insurance policy for a one-week trip to Singapore usually starts from around AUD 40–50 per person. The cost can increase based on age, pre-existing health conditions, the policy’s coverage limits, and any optional extras you require, such as adventure sports coverage.