Is Vaping Banned in Singapore? What Travelers Need to Know
The short answer is yes, vaping is banned in Singapore. This has been the law since 2018, and the government takes it very seriously.
Why Is Vaping Illegal in Singapore?
Singapore has some of the strictest public health laws in the world. Officials argue that e-cigarettes and vapes contain harmful and addictive substances that pose a health risk, especially for young people. Because of this, the sale, possession, and use of vapes are all illegal.
What Happens If You Bring a Vape Into Singapore?
If you are planning a trip to Singapore, my advice is simple – do not pack a vape in your luggage. The law here is crystal clear. Owning, buying, or using a vape is against the law, and this applies to locals as well as tourists. Even if you bought your vape legally back home, carrying it into Singapore can land you in serious trouble.
At Changi Airport, customs officers are strict, and vape devices can be seized on the spot. But the consequences don’t end there. The penalties for vaping offences have been tightened even further.
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First-time offenders: Under 18s face a S$500 fine, while adults face S$700.
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Repeat cases: The fine can go up to S$2,000, and you may even face prosecution.
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Mandatory programs: Some offenders are required to go through rehabilitation and regular supervision, which can include drug testing.
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Tourists and foreigners: Visitors caught with vapes risk deportation, cancellation of their passes, and being banned from re-entering Singapore.
Readers should take note of the fact that this is not just about using a vape in public. Simply having one in your bag, even if you bought it legally in another country, is enough to get you into serious trouble in Singapore.
A busy Singapore street with tourists and locals. While the city is welcoming to visitors, travelers should remember that vaping is banned and strictly enforced here.
Why Is Vaping Considered More Dangerous Than Cigarettes in Singapore?
Many travelers wonder why cigarettes are still legal in Singapore but vaping is completely banned. The main reason comes down to uncertainty and risk. With cigarettes, the dangers are already well documented. For example, it is common knowledge that cigarettes cause the likes of cancer, heart disease, and many other serious health issues. That’s why smoking is heavily taxed and restricted to designated areas.
Vaping, on the other hand, is newer and less regulated globally. In Singapore, health experts say many of the vapes being sold on the black market are laced with toxic chemicals and addictive substances that can be even more harmful than tobacco. Some of these substances, like etomidate, are linked to serious side effects and can be dangerous when inhaled.
Another reason is youth appeal. Vapes are often packaged in bright colors and fruity flavors, making them attractive to teenagers. Authorities in Singapore see this as a major threat to public health and want to stop a new generation from getting hooked on nicotine.
So while smoking is still allowed under strict rules, vaping is treated more like a drug offence. The idea is to cut off the problem at the root before it becomes as widespread as cigarette smoking.
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EWK is the voice of Explore With Kojo, a global travel platform that goes beyond postcards and tourist hotspots. We explore the real stories, raw truths, and human moments that mainstream travel media often misses. Whether we’re answering your questions, sharing photo essays, or documenting life-changing journeys, our mission is simple: to show the world with heart, honesty, and curiosity.