Singapore ranks among the world’s most expensive destinations for medical care: a single night in hospital can cost around 2 300 € at the patient’s expense, and hospitals may request a deposit before admitting you. Insurance is not compulsory to enter the city-state, but France Diplomatie explicitly describes it as essential, even for a stopover.
Get my quoteIs travel insurance compulsory in Singapore?
Travel insurance is not legally required to enter Singapore for French nationals. France Diplomatie nonetheless considers it essential: hospital stays can exceed 2 300 € per night and hospitals may request a deposit before providing any treatment. Travelling without cover means risking a very large medical bill, with no guarantee of reimbursement when you return home.
Why take out travel insurance for Singapore?
- Medical costs among the highest in Asia: A GP consultation costs between 55 and 85 €. A night in hospital can approach 2 300 € for a foreigner. Without insurance, you cover the full amount, sometimes before you are even admitted.
- Repatriation from 11,000 km away: In the event of a serious emergency, organising a medical repatriation from Singapore to France can cost tens of thousands of euros. Insurance covers the full cost, including a medical escort.
- Dengue, chikungunya and Zika all year round: These mosquito-borne diseases circulate in Singapore throughout the year. A severe case can require several days in an expensive private clinic.
- Baggage, theft and flight delays: Changi is a major international hub: lost luggage, theft and delays happen. Baggage and delay cover pays you out directly, with no upfront costs.
What your Singapore travel insurance covers with Yupwego
For a trip to Singapore, Yupwego recommends medical cover of at least 500 000 €: here are the key guarantees to check before you travel.
- Medical expenses and hospitalisation: Yupwego pays the hospital directly, surgery and intensive care included. You pay nothing upfront, even when the bill exceeds 2 300 € per night.
- Medical repatriation: Medically supervised transport and return to France, arranged and funded, whatever your condition.
- 24-hour assistance: An emergency line reachable around the clock from Singapore to activate cover and direct you to the right facility.
- Cancellation and trip interruption: If your trip is cancelled or cut short for a covered reason, costs already incurred are reimbursed in accordance with your policy terms.
- Third-party liability: If you cause damage to a third party in Singapore, your insurance covers the associated costs under your policy terms.
Health and healthcare in Singapore
Singapore’s healthcare system is of an exceptionally high standard, but its prices rank among the steepest in Asia: a GP consultation costs between 55 and 85 €, and a night in hospital can reach around 2 300 € for a foreigner, in both public and private facilities. The main health risks are dengue, chikungunya and Zika, all transmitted by mosquitoes throughout the year, with a risk of severe forms requiring hospitalisation. Before you leave, consult a doctor or international vaccination centre: keeping your vaccination record up to date (diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles) is recommended, along with hepatitis A depending on your profile and travel plans.
Entry requirements for Singapore
French nationals do not need a visa for Singapore: a visitor pass of up to 90 days is granted on arrival. Your passport must remain valid for at least six months after your planned return date and must contain at least one blank page. Before boarding, complete the free SG Arrival Card via the ICA e-service or the MyICA app within 72 hours of your arrival: failure to do so may result in being denied boarding. For a long stay or a move abroad, explore our long-stay travel insurance and expat insurance options.
Vehicle hire and road accidents in Singapore
Hiring a vehicle in Singapore is uncommon for tourists, thanks to the city’s excellent public transport network, but it is possible. If you do hire a car, take out the CDW collision damage waiver offered by the rental company: Yupwego travel insurance does not cover damage you cause to a hired vehicle. That said, if you are involved in an accident, your own medical costs, hospitalisation and repatriation are covered by your travel insurance; third-party liability may also be included, depending on your policy.
