Singapore Implements Stricter Measures Against Vaping for Foreigners from Sept 1

TDT | Manama

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Foreigners caught vaping in Singapore will face harsher penalties under new measures taking effect from September 1, 2025, authorities announced on Thursday. The tightened rules aim to curb the rising use of e-vaporisers and protect public health.

Under the new regulations, first-time offenders under 18 will be fined $500, up from $300, while adults face $700, up from $500. Repeat offenders could face pass revocation, deportation, and bans on re-entering Singapore. Short-term visit pass holders who reoffend will be denied re-entry, while long-term pass holders—including Employment Pass, S Pass, Student Pass, and Dependant Pass holders—may have their passes revoked after a third offence.

Foreigners in possession of etomidate vapes (Kpods) or testing positive for the substance are also subject to severe penalties, including deportation. Authorities emphasized that appeals will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam said, “Some leniency will be exercised for first-time offenders on long-term passes, but second-time offenders will have to leave.” Health Minister Ong Ye Kung added that transit passengers must declare and dispose of vapes at Changi Airport’s red bins, with officers assessing whether confiscated vapes are intended for trafficking.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has increased enforcement at all entry points, seizing over 850 vapes and components between August 18 and 22. On August 27, a Malaysian man was arrested at Woodlands Checkpoint attempting to smuggle nearly 900 vapes and 6,700 components.

Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash noted that around 700 MOM officers have been empowered to take enforcement action, particularly targeting migrant workers. Education campaigns in multiple languages will also raise awareness of vaping risks and legal consequences.

“These measures ensure that all work-pass holders comply with Singapore law, and violators may face revoked passes and bans on employment,” he said. Authorities reiterated that the crackdown is part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle the vaping scourge.