Hand-carried Temporary Imported Goods

Most travellers enter Singapore with personal belongings that do not require permits or tax payment. 

However, if you are bringing in specific goods into Singapore that you intend to take out when you leave, you may need to declare them under temporary import.

Temporary import allows certain goods to be brought into Singapore without paying duty or Goods and Services Tax (GST), provided the goods meet the required conditions and are re-exported when you leave Singapore.

What Temporary Import Means

Temporary import applies when you bring goods into Singapore for a limited period, with the intention of taking them out again when you leave.

These goods must:

• Be brought in temporarily, and

• Be taken out of Singapore when you depart

Temporary imports are commonly used for non-routine personal goods, such as professional equipment, exhibition or display items, or specialised tools that you will take out of Singapore again, rather than everyday travel items.

When a Temporary Import Permit is Required

You may need to apply for a temporary import permit before arrival if you are an individual traveller carrying goods such as:

• Professional or specialised equipment for short-term use

• Exhibition or display items you will take back with you

• Trade or demonstration samples carried personally

• Personal assets that are not intended to remain in Singapore

These goods must meet Singapore Customs’ conditions for temporary import.

Most everyday travel items do not require a temporary import permit, such as:

• Clothing and footwear

• Mobile phones, laptops, and personal electronics

• Toiletries and personal effects

• Regular luggage for personal use

If you are unsure, declare your goods at the Red Channel. View the detailed guidance on the temporary importation of goods for more information.

How to Apply for a Temporary Import Permit

You can apply for a temporary import permit through:

• The Customs@SG web application, or

• A local forwarding agent if you need assistance

You must obtain the permit before you arrive in Singapore.

What to Do Upon Arrival

When arriving in Singapore with temporarily imported goods:

1. Proceed to the Customs Red Channel after immigration clearance

2. Declare all temporary goods to the checking officer

3. Present:

   1. Your temporary import permit

   2. The goods for inspection

   3. Any supporting documents (such as invoices or item lists)

Customs officers may inspect the goods to verify that they match the permit details.

What You Must Do Before Leaving Singapore

Before you depart Singapore, you must take the temporarily imported goods out of Singapore.

You may be required to:

• Present the permit again, and

• Show proof that the goods are leaving Singapore

If the goods are not re-exported as declared, duty and GST may be charged.

How This Differs from Other Traveller Schemes

Temporary import is different from other traveller arrangements:

• Duty-free concession – applies to limited quantities of liquor for personal consumption

• GST import relief – applies to goods you bring back for personal use

• Temporary import – applies when goods are brought in temporarily and re-exported

Understanding which scheme applies helps you avoid delays, penalties, or unnecessary permits.

If You Are Unsure

If you are unsure whether your goods qualify for temporary import:

• Declare them at the Red Channel, or

• Seek advice from a Customs officer at the checkpoint

Failing to declare goods correctly may result in duty, GST, fines, or prosecution.