Are you from Singapore and heading to Malaysia soon?
Do border crossing procedures give you pause?
Well, good news!
You’ve just come across the ultimate guide for how to cross the border from Singapore to Malaysia.
Keep reading to find out border crossing steps for each transport option, as well as any helpful advice and info you might need.
1. Overview
2. Two Singapore-Malaysia Land Border Crossings
3. 7 Transport Options To Cross The Singapore-Malaysia Border
4. Singapore-Malaysia Border Crossing Procedure
5. Documents Required to Cross The Singapore-Malaysia Border
Note:
- Foreign visitors (except Singapore passport holders) need to apply MDAC within 3 days of arrival in Malaysia.
- Singapore passport holders can use the e-gate facilities at both JB CIQs.
1. Overview
It’s important to plan your journey carefully to avoid unexpected detours or time-wasting. Here’s how:
- Determine if your destination is in JB or elsewhere in Malaysia.
- Choose the nearest SG-MY checkpoint to your destination.
- Select the transport option best for you.
- Learn beforehand how to cross the border with the transport option of your choice.
- Identify the mandatory and necessary documents you might need to bring with you.
2. Two Singapore-Malaysia Land Border Crossings
If you’ve decided to enter Malaysia from Singapore by land, there are two borders: The Causeway or Second Link.
You should choose whichever checkpoint is closest to your destination.
Read Also: How To Take Bus From Woodlands To JB
1. The Causeway (connecting Woodlands to Johor Bahru)
Typically known as the main (and older) border, the Causeway connects Woodlands Checkpoint and Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (a.k.a. JB CIQ First Link).
2. The Second Link (connecting Tuas to Gelang Patah)
This is the second and newer link between Singapore and Malaysia.
Called Second Link or Tuas by locals, it connects Tuas Checkpoint and Bangunan Sultan Abu Bakar (a.k.a. JB CIQ Second Link).
Tips:
- Avoid traffic jams at the border when you travel by checking https://www.trafficiti.com.
3. 7 Transport Options To Cross The Singapore-Malaysia Border
1. By Bus
If you are going to JB from Singapore, a public bus is an economical choice, with fares starting from SGD 2.10 to SGD 4.80 one way.
Causeway Link (CW) or SBS are considered popular bus operators.
Where To Catch Your Bus In Singapore
- Kranji MRT Station: CW1, SBS 170X, SBS 170
- Queen Street Bus Terminal: CW2, SBS 170
- Newton Circus: CW5
- Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange or Marsiling MRT Station: SMRT 950
- Jurong Town Hall Bus Interchange: SBS 160
To learn more, check out How To Take Bus To JB From Singapore and How To Take Bus From Woodlands To JB.
Bus Schedule & Route
For Causeway Link: Refer here.
For SBS Bus: Refer here.
2. By Private Taxi
Looking for the most preferred option amongst Singaporeans and tourists?
A private taxi to Malaysia from Singapore is convenient, comfortable, and offers a flexible travel schedule.
Note:
- Just going to JB? Book a private taxi from Singapore to JB here.
3. By KTM Shuttle Tebrau Train
The KTM Shuttle Tebrau departs from Woodlands Train Checkpoint, arriving within 5 minutes at JB Sentral Station. This costs SGD 5 one way.
Read Also: How To Get From Woodlands Train Checkpoint To Woodlands Checkpoint
Once you get to JB Sentral, simply proceed to your destination in Malaysia by KTM train, bus, taxi, or Grab car.
Note:
- Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
Tips:
- Read How To Book Train Ticket To JB before booking your tickets.
- If you need a bus to Woodlands, check this out.
- Missed the train? Don’t panic. Refer to How To Get From Woodlands Train Checkpoint To Woodlands Checkpoint.
Train Schedule
Refer here for the full train schedule.
4. By RTS (Rail Transit System)
RTS is an upcoming shuttle link connecting Singapore (Woodlands North Station) and Johor (Bukit Chagar Station).
It is scheduled to be completed by December 2026.
5. By Coach
Heading to places such as Malacca, Genting, Kuala Lumpur, Desaru, or Legoland Malaysia? A coach is a good option for long-distance travel on a moderate budget.
The most notable coach operators are WTS Travel Coach, Starmart Express, and KKKL Singapore. They offer a wide variety of destinations in Malaysia.
Read Also: How To Take Bus To JB From Singapore
Coach Schedule & Route
For the schedule, check WTS official website or Easybook.
6. By Car (Self-Driving)
If you have a car or are renting one, self-driving offers more flexibility over how and when you travel.
Note:
- Make sure you have valid car insurance and road tax for both Singapore and Malaysia.
7. By Motorcycle
This option is usually used by Malaysian workers in Singapore.
8. By Ferry
BatamFast offers ferries to Desaru. You can choose to arrive at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal or Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal (not recommended).
Read Also: How To Go To Desaru From Singapore By Ferry
Note:
- Tickets to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal cost SGD 70 each one way.
- Tickets can be purchased via BatamFast’s official site or over-the-counter.
Ferry Schedule & Route
Refer here for BatamFast schedule and route.
4. Singapore-Malaysia Border Crossing Procedure
No matter which transport option you decide to go for, they each have their own border crossing procedure. Learning them in advance is the best way to avoid any hiccups when travelling.
1. For Bus & Coach
Step 1: Board a public bus or coach from Singapore to your destination in Malaysia.
- You’re advised to get your coach tickets online.
- For public buses, just queue at the bus stop. No pre-booking needed.
Step 2: Arrive at Singapore Checkpoint (Woodlands or Tuas).
- Alight with your bags and go through customs.
- After clearing immigration, reboard the bus/coach.
Step 3: Arrive at JB CIQ (1st or 2nd Link).
- Alight with your bags and go through customs.
- After clearing immigration, reboard the bus/coach.
Step 4: Resume journey to JB or rest of Malaysia.
Notes:
- For public bus, reboard your CW or Transtar bus at the checkpoint to avoid paying a new fare. Simply show your receipt to the bus driver upon boarding.
- For coach, reboard the same coach at the checkpoint.
- Upon arrival at JB Sentral, walk down to the bus bay. You can take a bus, taxi, or Grab to your next destination from there.
2. For Private Taxi
Step 1: Book a private taxi.
- Submit details of your trip to the private taxi company.
Step 2: Take the private taxi from Singapore to Malaysia.
- Your driver will pick up at your preferred location.
Step 3: Arrive at Singapore Checkpoint (Woodlands or Tuas).
- Remain inside the car during immigration checks. Show your passport(s) and face(s) to the immigration officer.
Step 4: Arrive at JB CIQ (1st or 2nd Link).
- Same as Step 3 above.
Step 5: Resume your journey to Malaysia.
Notes:
- Pay for your private taxi online or pay the driver by cash upon arrival at your destination.
- You will receive your driver’s details 1 day before the trip.
- Toll and road charges will be covered by the private taxi.
3. For KTM Train
Step 1: Take KTM Shuttle Tebrau from Singapore to JB Sentral.
- Get your tickets online (highly recommended) or over-the-counter.
Step 2: Arrive at Woodlands Train Checkpoint
- Wait for the departure gate to open. A sign will tell you where to queue.
- After entering departure gate, proceed to clear Singapore immigration, followed by Malaysia immigration
- Head to the train platform and wait for your train!
Step 3: Board your KTM train to JB Sentral.
Notes:
- Both Singapore and Malaysia clearance are done at Woodlands Train Checkpoint.
- Your passport will serve as your boarding pass.
- Boarding gate only opens 40 minutes before departure and closes 20 minutes before.
4. For Car (Self-Driving)
Step 1: Drive to Singapore Checkpoint (Woodlands or Tuas).
- Queue and remain inside the car for immigration clearance.
- Once it’s your turn, show your passport(s) and face(s) to the immigration officer.
- Pay Singapore toll, Malaysia road charge, and Malaysia toll before driving away from the immigration booth.
Step 2: Drive to JB CIQ (1st or 2nd Link)
- Proceed to clear immigration.
Step 3: Resume your journey to Malaysia.
Notes:
- Foreign vehicles need to do a one-time registration for VEP here.
- You must pay the toll charges even if the barrier has lifted.
- You must comply with ¾ tank petrol rule upon entering Malaysia.
- Only use Touch ‘n Go (TnG) to pay road charges and toll fees in Malaysia.
- Only pump RON 97 petrol in Malaysia.
Tips:
- If you forget your TNG card, you can borrow one from the vehicle behind you to pay for your Road Charges and Toll Fees. Then pay them back in cash.
- Top up your TnG card in Singapore beforehand as there are no top-up machines at the checkpoints.
5. For Motorcycle
Refer to steps listed for No 4. Car (Self-Driving) as it is similar.
Notes:
- Ensure you have a valid motorcycle license and motorcycle insurance.
- TnG card is needed for Malaysian tolls.
- Foreign vehicles need to do a one-time registration for VEP here.
6. For Ferry
Step 1: Buy your ferry tickets from Singapore to Desaru online or over-the-counter.
Step 2: Arrive at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.
- Collect your boarding pass (including return ticket, if you bought one) from the BatamFast counter.
- Proceed to clear immigration.
- Wait for the ferry to arrive.
Step 3: Board the ferry.
Step 4: Arrive at Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal or Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal.
Notes:
- There is a free shuttle bus from Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal to resorts and tourist spots in Desaru Coast.
- From Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal to Desaru Coast, you will have to take land transport (about SGD 20 to SGD 60).
- Keep a lookout for ferry diversions during monsoon season.
5. Documents Required to Cross The Singapore-Malaysia Border
1. Common Documents
Without these documents, you won’t be able to enter Malaysia. To avoid a ruined holiday, make sure you have the following:
- A valid passport (at least 6 months validity from travel date).
- A visa (check requirements here).
2. Specific Documents
Besides the above, depending on your choice of transport to Malaysia, you may need additional documents to cross the border:
| Transport Option | Documents Required |
| Bus/Coach |
|
| KTM Shuttle Tebrau |
|
| Ferry |
|
| Self-Driving (Car) |
|
| Motorcycle |
|
