Heavy traffic expected at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during year-end school holidays

SINGAPORE – Travellers headed to Malaysia can expect heavy traffic at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints during the year-end school holidays, said the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

From Nov 21 to Jan 1, 2026, travellers using the land crossings need to factor in extra waiting times, it said.

Over the Deepavali long weekend from Oct 17 to 20, travellers in cars had to wait up to three hours to clear immigration due to traffic tailbacks from Malaysia. Nearly two million people crossed the two checkpoints during that period.

On Oct 17 alone, there was a peak of more than 550,000 people crossing the land checkpoints.

With the upcoming school holidays, intensified checks against the smuggling of e-vaporisers will be conducted, said ICA, leading to longer waiting times.

Travellers should check the traffic situation at the land checkpoints beforehand, it said, adding that they can consider using cross-border bus services to avoid congestion.

Those travelling by car or motorcycle are also encouraged to use QR codes, instead of passports, for faster and more convenient immigration clearance. However, they will still need to take along their passports as the documents may be required overseas.

Drivers of foreign-registered vehicles must ensure that their vehicle entry permits (VEPs) are valid, ICA added. Those who do not have a valid Autopass card, the VEP approval e-mail from the Land Transport Authority or valid insurance will be turned back.

ICA said it seeks travellers’ understanding in cooperating with its officers, observing traffic rules and maintaining lane discipline.

“ICA will not hesitate to take stern action against travellers who do not comply with officers’ instructions and commit offences at the checkpoints,” it added.