Laws Foreign Students Must Know in Singapore (as of October 2025)

1. Student Pass & Immigration Rules

   • Always hold a valid Student Pass and attend only the course or school approved under your pass.

   • Overstaying, skipping classes, or working without permission can lead to fines, cancellation of your pass, and deportation.

2. Work Restrictions

   • Foreign students are not allowed to work unless specifically permitted.

   • Eligible students may work part-time (up to 16 hours per week during term time).

   • Working without authorisation is a serious offence and can result in penalties or revocation of your Student Pass.

3. Vaping & E-Cigarette Ban

   • All forms of vaping, e-cigarettes, and e-vaporisers are banned.

   • It is illegal to import, buy, sell, use, or possess vape devices.

   • From September 2025, penalties are stricter: first-time offenders can be fined S$700, repeat offenders up to S$2,000, and foreigners risk deportation.

   • Drug-laced vapes are treated as controlled drugs, carrying heavy jail terms or caning for traffickers.

4. Drug Laws

   • Singapore enforces a zero-tolerance policy toward drugs.

   • Even small amounts of controlled substances can result in long imprisonment or death penalty for trafficking.

   • Some medicines and vape liquids from overseas may contain banned substances—never bring them in without checking first.

5. Smoking Control

   • Smoking is only allowed in designated areas.

   • Lighting a cigarette in prohibited places (bus stops, void decks, parks, or air-conditioned buildings) can result in a fine.

   • Always dispose of cigarette butts properly.

6. Public Cleanliness & Vandalism Laws

   • Littering, spitting, or not flushing public toilets are punishable by fines.

   • Vandalism, graffiti, or damaging property are criminal offences with possible jail or caning.

   • Keeping public spaces clean is taken very seriously in Singapore.

7. Chewing Gum & Public Decency

   • Importing or selling chewing gum is restricted, except for certain therapeutic gums.

   • Public nudity, indecent exposure, or obscene acts are illegal.

   • Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially in religious places.

8. Criminal and Cyber Offences

   • Theft, assault, and possession of weapons are serious crimes.

   • Hacking, online harassment, or defamation on social media can lead to criminal charges.

   • Avoid spreading false information or engaging in offensive online behaviour.

9. Traffic Rules

   • A valid driving licence is required to drive in Singapore.

   • Follow all traffic signals, wear seatbelts, and do not use your phone while driving.

   • Drunk driving and reckless driving carry heavy fines, suspension, or jail time.

10. Public Assembly & Political Activities

• • Public protests or gatherings require police permits.

  • Foreign students should avoid participating in political events or demonstrations.

  • Sensitive remarks about race, religion, or politics can violate public order laws.