Preliminary Advice for Strategic Goods Transaction
Apply for Preliminary Advice to understand if your strategic goods transaction is likely to be approved. Submit the form with full documents, which will take about seven working days.
Last updated 23 February 2026
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Before committing to any activity involving the controlled transfer of strategic goods, you can request Preliminary Advice from Singapore Customs. This early assessment helps you understand whether your controlled transfer is likely to be approved when you later apply for a strategic goods permit, supporting confident, well-informed business decisions.
How to Apply for Preliminary Advice
Step 1: Complete the Application Form
Fill in the Application Form for Preliminary Advice on Strategic Goods Transaction.
Step 2: Prepare and Attach Supporting Documents
Include relevant documents to help Singapore Customs assess your case, such as:
Technical specifications of the strategic goods (manuals, brochures, data sheets, catalogues, operating instructions)
Business transaction documents (contract, PO, invoice, tender requirements)
Export licence from the originating country (and English translation), or official confirmation that re-export is not controlled
Company profiles or websites of the exporter, consignee, and end-user
Any other supporting documents relevant to the transaction
Step 3: Submit your application
Send the completed form and all supporting documents for assessment.
Processing Time
Applications with complete information are typically processed within 7 working days. More complex cases, such as those involving sensitive destinations, specialised technologies, or multiple foreign parties, may require additional time. To avoid delays, ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submission.