Singapore
A fine city — literally. Laws here are strict and consistently enforced.
Singapore takes cleanliness and rules seriously. Read the signs — fines are real and instant.
Strictly Prohibited
Drug trafficking carries mandatory death penalty — even small quantities at the airport.
Importing chewing gum (except medicinal) is illegal — confiscation + fine on entry.
Smoking outside designated yellow boxes — SGD 200-1000 fine.
Feeding pigeons or monkeys carries fines up to SGD 500.
Connecting to someone's WiFi without permission is a criminal offence.
Don't enter mosques or temples in shorts, sleeveless tops, or with shoes — coverings provided at entry.
Don't speak loudly in lifts, MRT, or restaurants — quiet voices are the default.
Don't ignore the 'chope' tissue-packet table reservation at hawker centres.
Laws to Know
Drug offences carry mandatory long sentences and even capital punishment.
Littering can cost SGD 300+ on the spot.
Vandalism (including graffiti) is punishable by caning.
Connecting to unsecured WiFi without permission is illegal.
Common Immigration & Visa Mistakes
Applying for e-Visa directly — must go through authorised agents.
Arriving without confirmed return ticket — denied entry.
Bringing chewing gum into the country — confiscated, fined.
Not declaring tobacco/alcohol over allowance — fines + confiscation.
Carrying medication without prescription paperwork — detention possible.
Overstaying even 1 day — fines, jail, lifetime ban.
Penalties for Foreigners
Overstay: SGD 4,000 fine + jail up to 6 months + ban.
Drug trafficking: mandatory death penalty.
Littering: SGD 300-2,000 + Corrective Work Order.
Vandalism/graffiti: caning (up to 8 strokes) + jail.
Eating/drinking on MRT: SGD 500.
Smoking outside designated areas: SGD 200-1,000.
Public Conduct
Always queue. Cutting lines is socially unacceptable.
Use designated smoking zones — smoking elsewhere can fine you SGD 200.
Don't chew gum in public — sale is restricted and littering it is heavily fined.
Don't eat or drink on MRT (metro) — SGD 500 fine.
Dining & Hawker Centres
Reserve tables with a tissue packet — a local 'chope' tradition.
Return your tray after eating; it's now mandatory at hawker centres.
Don't haggle — prices are fixed.
Test what you've learned.
10 quick questions across countries.