Singapore to Implement No Boarding Directive from January 2026

Enhanced Immigration Controls

Singapore is set to enforce the No Boarding Directive (NBD) starting January 2026, a measure designed to prevent travelers who fail to meet entry requirements from boarding flights to Singapore. This policy represents a significant shift in border control practices, moving from arrival checks to pre-departure verification. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will oversee the implementation, working closely with airlines to ensure compliance.

Rising Number of Rejected Entries

The decision comes amid a substantial increase in the number of foreigners denied entry into Singapore. Data from ICA reveals that approximately 41,800 individuals were refused entry during the first 11 months of 2025. This figure represents a 26% increase compared to the whole of 2024 and a 46% rise from 2023 levels. The surge in rejections highlights both the growing volume of travel and enhanced detection capabilities at Singapore's borders.

Airline Participation and Implementation Timeline

Several major airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Scoot, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, and AirAsia, will begin enforcing NBD for passengers traveling to Singapore starting January 2026. The initial phase will cover arrivals at Changi Airport, with additional carriers expected to join the program from March 2026 onwards. This progressive rollout aims to minimize disruptions while maximizing the effectiveness of the new border control measures.

Impact on Travel and Border Security

The introduction of NBD is expected to streamline immigration processes while enhancing border security. By identifying and preventing inadmissible passengers from boarding flights, Singapore aims to reduce the number of last-minute denials at arrival counters. This pre-emptive approach not only improves the travel experience for eligible passengers but also allows for more efficient allocation of border control resources.