In an effort to enhance its border security, Singapore has announced that from January 30, 2026, airlines will be required to enforce No-Boarding Directive (NBD) notices for undesirable travellers or those who do not meet the entry requirements for the country. This move is aimed at preventing potential threats from reaching Singapore’s shores and improving overall border control operations.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore stated that NBD notices will be issued to airlines operating flights to Singapore, detailing individuals who are identified as undesirable or lacking the proper documentation. These travellers will be prohibited from boarding flights bound for Singapore, ensuring that they are intercepted before they even arrive at the airport. This initiative, announced on November 28, 2025, comes as part of Singapore’s ongoing efforts to enhance security measures at both Changi and Seletar airports.
With this new directive, Singapore aims to avoid having these passengers processed upon arrival and prevent them from creating unnecessary disruptions. The ICA’s goal is to ensure that all inbound passengers are properly vetted before they even board the aircraft, offering a more proactive approach to handling potential risks.
The No-Boarding Directive (NBD) is a new measure set to be implemented on January 30, which will require airlines to prevent undesirable travellers from boarding flights headed to Singapore. These travellers will be flagged by the ICA, and the airline will receive a formal notice detailing which individuals are not permitted to board.
The primary reason for implementing the No-Boarding Directive is to strengthen border security and reduce the number of individuals attempting to enter Singapore who do not meet its entry requirements. Immigration checks are often conducted upon arrival, but with the introduction of the NBD, travellers flagged by the ICA will be stopped before they even board their flights.
Airlines that receive NBD notices will be responsible for ensuring that the flagged travellers are not allowed to board flights to Singapore. This will include verifying visa details, SGAC submissions, and other required documentation during check-in.
Airlines may also be required to carry out additional checks, including confirming that all travel documents meet Singapore’s entry requirements. Staff training will be crucial in ensuring compliance, and the ICA has already briefed airline operators about the new rules.
The ICA will continue to work closely with airlines to ensure smooth enforcement of the NBD, and will monitor compliance with these regulations. In the case of non-compliance, penalties will be imposed, including fines of up to $10,000 for airline operators, and for pilots or employees, they could face fines, imprisonment for up to six months, or both.
