Table of Contents
Introduction
Ever thought about crossing from Malaysia to Singapore by bus like by using public transport? And then only spending less than £5? Cross from Malaysia to Singapore by Bus is super easy. When I first shared my experience on Instagram, the questions flooded in: How long does it take? Is it safe? Is it confusing? So I decided to put everything in one place. So here is the full guide, based on my own solo experience.
This is a common route for locals and expats. In fact, when I lived in Singapore as a student, I used to cross regularly. And I have a close friend that spent her childhood crossing the border daily for school. I mean can you imagine the amount of passports she had to get! Crazy!
On this trip, I was traveling solo from Singapore to Johor Bahru (Malaysia), after my friends wedding to Singapore and it reminded me just how accessible and affordable travel can be when you know the route. And travel like a local.
For my Singapore and Malaysia itinerary then you should read – Malaysia Travel Guide with Singapore, and Indonesia in Just 10 Days
Key Things to Know Before Crossing the Border
- Internet: You’ll want data on both sides of the border. I use Airalo for an eSIM, so I have mobile data the moment I land in either country.
- Travel Insurance: I recommend anyone travelling has cover I use SafetyWing.
- Payments: Singapore and Malaysia are largely card-friendly, but carry a little SGD and MYR cash for the bus ticket and any snacks at the terminals.
- The British High Commission, Singapore: 100 Tanglin Road, Singapore 247919. and for the British High Commission, Kuala Lumpur: Level 27, Menara Binjai, 2 Jalan Binjai, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- You can always check your country’s embassy on Embassies.info worth doing before you travel.
Note: This post reflects my experience crossing from Singapore to Johor Bahru in 2019. While much of the process remains similar, always check for the latest immigration or transport updates before your trip.
How I Got from Singapore to Johor Bahru
I started my journey from Singapore to Johor Bahru, a city just across the border from Singapore was actually very smooth. Although I was nervous at first, muscle memory kicked in from my student days, and I quickly got into the rhythm of the crossing.
Which Cross-Border Buses to Take
There are three main bus options that connect Malaysia and Singapore:
All three depart from Larkin Terminal in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and arrive at Queen Street Bus Terminal (also known as Ban San Bus Terminal) in Singapore.
Travel Distance – Distance Singapore to Malaysia: 40 minutes to 2 hours (depending on traffic)
Cost: Around £2 to £5 one way
From Queen Street, you can easily get a Grab (like an Uber for South East Asia) or connect to Bugis MRT Station to explore more of Singapore.
Where to Start: Larkin Terminal
Larkin Terminal is the main bus hub in Johor Bahru. It’s a busy but organised station where you can buy your tickets for cross-border buses. Everything is clearly marked, but if it’s your first time, arrive early and give yourself time to navigate. And if you are really lost ask, Singaporean and Malaysians are so kind and helpful.
What Happens at Immigration in Singapore and Malaysia
You’ll have to change the bus twice:
- Johor Bahru Checkpoint – Malaysia exit immigration
- Woodlands Checkpoint – Singapore entry immigration
At each stop, you’ll go through passport control and baggage screening. Please have your passport ready. After clearing immigration, reboard your bus (or catch the next one from the same company if yours leaves).
Tip: Keep your bus ticket handy and your documents ready.
Tips for Crossing the Border
- Entry is always at the discretion of immigration officers. Please be respectful and follow instructions
- No chewing gum in Singapore is allowed (it’s a controlled item!) – 7 Laws You Should Know About in Singapore
- Remove hats and sunglasses before entering immigration
- Fill out all paperwork neatly
- Keep your Singapore entry/exit card safe. You’ll need it later
- Travel light you’ll be walking with your luggage, and it can be a pain carrying it all around.
Alternatives: Train or Taxi
- KTM Shuttle Train: Faster, less crowded, but tickets sell out fast
- Taxi: Convenient but can be a little more pricey.
More Travel Tools & Resources
- My Instagram and TikTok have reels from this exact crossing DM me if you have questions.
- Before travelling, check the Foreign Travel Advice page for UK travellers, and check visa requirements here.
- I used Airalo for my eSIM you can use this code ADEBOL5279 for a discount.
- Get travel insurance via SafetyWing here.
FAQs: Crossing From Malaysia to Singapore by Bus
Can I do this as a day trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru?
Yes. I used to do this all the time when I lived in Singapore and many people cross in the morning and return the same evening.
Do I need cash for the bus?
Cash is safest, though some operators accept card. Small notes are handy for both currencies.
Which bus is fastest?
All three run similar routes; timing depends more on immigration queues than the bus itself.
Do I need a visa?
Most nationalities get visa-free entry for short stays on both sides, but check current requirements for your passport before travelling.
Final Views
And there you have it a cross from Malaysia to Singapore by bus guide. This cross-border route is ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, and anyone like me that is already used to traveling South East Asia. It’s incredibly safe, well-signposted, and easily accessible. Do you think you will ever cross from Malaysia to Singapore by Bus??
If you’re in Malaysia and want to visit Singapore, this option is easy, affordable, and kind of fun once you know what to expect. I would advise doing it on a day trip if you are considering or a quick short break.
If this post helped you, subscribe to the blog for more travel guides and tips. Want more Southeast Asia content? Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for quick reels and posts.
We will speak sooner than you think!
MBV x
