Current Status: Travel to Batam is Now Open
Yes, Singaporeans can now travel to Batam without any quarantine or testing requirements for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. The Indonesian government has lifted all COVID-19 related travel restrictions, making it easier for Singaporeans to visit the neighboring island city.
Key Updates and Highlights:
- Visa-free entry for Singaporeans: Singaporeans enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 30 days.
- No quarantine or testing: Travelers are not required to undergo any quarantine or testing upon arrival in Batam, regardless of vaccination status.
- Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL): The VTL between Singapore and Batam has been discontinued. All travelers are now treated the same.
- Ferry services resumed: Ferry services between Singapore and Batam have resumed with multiple options available daily.
How to Travel to Batam from Singapore:
By Ferry:
- Ferry services depart from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and arrive at Batam’s Batam Centre Ferry Terminal.
- Ferry tickets can be purchased online or at the ferry terminal.
- The journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
By Cruise Ferry:
- Cruise ferries offer a more luxurious travel option with comfortable seating and amenities.
- Cruise ferries depart from Singapore’s HarbourFront Ferry Terminal and arrive at Batam’s Nongsapura Ferry Terminal.
- The journey takes approximately 75-90 minutes.
Things to Consider Before Traveling:
- Check the latest travel advisories for any updates or changes in travel requirements.
- Secure a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.
- Have sufficient Indonesian rupiah for expenses.
- Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
Future Outlook: Batam Tourism in 2025
The Batam tourism industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The Indonesian government’s efforts to promote Batam as a tourist destination are expected to boost the number of Singaporean visitors.
In addition, the development of new infrastructure projects such as the Batam-Bintan Bridge and the Nongsa Digital Park are set to transform Batam into a more vibrant and attractive destination.
Comparison of Travel Requirements in 2023 and 2025
| Feature | 2023 | 2025 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Quarantine | Not required | Not required |
| Testing | Not required | Not required |
| Visa | Visa-free for Singaporeans | Visa-free for Singaporeans |
| Ferry Services | Resumed | Expanded frequency and capacity |
| Tourism Growth | Growing | Significant growth expected |
| Infrastructure | New projects underway | Future developments will enhance connectivity and attractiveness |
Tables
Table 1: Ferry Services from Singapore to Batam
| Ferry Operator | Departure Terminal (Singapore) | Arrival Terminal (Batam) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batam Fast | Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal | Batam Centre Ferry Terminal | 45-60 minutes |
| Sindo Ferry | Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal | Batam Centre Ferry Terminal | 45-60 minutes |
| Horizon Fast Ferry | HarbourFront Ferry Terminal | Nongsapura Ferry Terminal | 75-90 minutes |
| Majestic Fast Ferry | HarbourFront Ferry Terminal | Nongsapura Ferry Terminal | 75-90 minutes |
Table 2: Cruise Ferry Services from Singapore to Batam
| Cruise Operator | Departure Terminal (Singapore) | Arrival Terminal (Batam) | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bintan Resort Ferries | HarbourFront Ferry Terminal | Nongsapura Ferry Terminal | 75-90 minutes |
| Batam Fast Cruise | HarbourFront Ferry Terminal | Batam Centre Ferry Terminal | 75-90 minutes |
| Sindo Ferry Cruise | HarbourFront Ferry Terminal | Batam Centre Ferry Terminal | 75-90 minutes |
Table 3: Estimated Travel Costs from Singapore to Batam
| Travel Option | Cost (Singapore Dollar) |
|---|---|
| Ferry (one-way) | SGD 20-40 |
| Cruise Ferry (one-way) | SGD 30-60 |
| Taxi from Ferry Terminal to City Centre | SGD 10-20 |
| Accommodation (per night) | SGD 20-50 |
| Meals (per day) | SGD 10-20 |
Table 4: Projected Tourism Growth in Batam
| Year | Number of Visitors |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 1.5 million |
| 2024 | 1.8 million |
| 2025 | 2.2 million |
