Currency and travel money rules for Australians visiting Singapore
Planning a trip to Singapore? Learn how much cash you can bring, how to manage SGD effectively, and why preparing your currency in advance matters.
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Singapore is one of Southeast Asia’s most efficient and welcoming destinations — especially popular among Australian travelers. Whether you’re heading there for a business trip, a romantic getaway, or a stopover on your way to Europe, it’s important to understand how to manage your travel money.
From cash declaration limits to the best ways to use Singapore dollars (SGD), being informed can help you avoid costly mistakes.
Why you need to know Singapore’s currency rules
Singapore is known for its strict regulations, including those around money entering or leaving the country. These rules are in place to prevent money laundering and to ensure customs transparency. As an Aussie traveler, knowing what to expect helps you avoid unexpected paperwork, delays at the airport or even fines.
Whether you’re bringing a mix of currencies, leftover Australian dollars (AUD), or a pre-set amount of SGD, staying compliant and planning ahead makes your arrival smoother.
How much cash can you bring into Singapore?
Singapore’s customs law requires mandatory declaration of any amount equivalent to SGD 20,000 or more (including foreign currencies). This applies both when you enter and leave the country. The declaration must be done at customs via the NP727 form, which can be filled out electronically or at the checkpoint.
Practical example
If you’re travelling with $12,000 AUD, and the current exchange rate makes this over SGD 20,000, you must declare it. Failure to do so can lead to delays or legal issues.
Tip: Even if you're not close to the limit, it’s good to plan how much cash to carry and consider pre-exchanging some SGD before departure.
Where and how to use Singapore dollars (SGD)
Although Singapore is largely digital, there are still many day-to-day situations where cash is preferred or even necessary, such as:
- Hawker centers and local food courts (iconic in Singaporean culture)
- Taxis in areas where mobile coverage is weak
- Small local shops or markets
- Tipping or donations at temples and local attractions
Having small denominations (like SGD 2, 5, 10) is especially useful for these types of transactions.
Card payments and mobile wallets in Singapore
You’ll find that Visa, Mastercard and AMEX are widely accepted in hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants. On top of that, mobile payment systems like PayNow, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are used by locals and available to tourists with compatible cards.
However, relying solely on cards may not be ideal:
- Some cards incur foreign transaction fees
- Not all small vendors accept international cards
- ATMs may have withdrawal limits or added fees
Balance is key: Carry a mix of cash and cards to avoid getting stuck without a payment option.
Tips for preparing your SGD before flying
Planning your currency exchange ahead of time can save you stress and money. Prosegur Change makes it easy:
- Reserve your Singapore dollars online through our website: Check live exchange rates
- Pick up your cash at the airport before boarding, so you arrive ready.
- Enjoy 0% commission and highly competitive rates on major and exotic currencies.
Trusted by Prosegur with 30+ years of experience, we help Aussie travellers get their currency sorted reliably and securely.
Looking for more practical tips? You might also enjoy: Why reserve your currency before travelling abroad.
Before you fly, here are some common questions answered:
FAQs for Aussies heading to Singapore
No, but you may be asked to prove you can support yourself financially during your stay, especially on a tourist visa.
No. Singapore only accepts its local currency, the Singapore dollar (SGD), for daily purchases. Exchange your AUD before traveling.
You can carry up to SGD 20,000 (or equivalent in other currencies) without declaration. Anything above must be declared at customs.
Yes, if you bring in or take out more than SGD 20,000 (or its equivalent in AUD or other currencies), you must declare it.
It depends on your spending style, but around SGD 300–500 in cash is reasonable for local food, taxis, and incidental expenses, alongside card use.
Plan ahead and travel smarter
Avoid the stress of last-minute airport currency exchange booths or risky money changers abroad. With Prosegur Change, you can:
- Lock in great rates on SGD
- Enjoy 0% commission
- Pick up your money at the airport before departure
- Travel confidently with the support of 30+ years of expertise
Find your nearest branch and get ready for your Singapore adventure.
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