Section 57 of the Immigration Act 1959 (IA) lays out fifteen distinct offenses that are strictly regulated by Singapore’s immigration laws. Serious legal repercussions, such as imprisonment, fines, and even caning, can result from disobeying these laws. As an example of how important it is to follow these rules, we’ve listed five of the most typical immigration infractions in Singapore below.
- Unauthorized entry into Singapore
The penalties for illegally entering Singapore are severe, including a fine of up to S$4,000 and a jail term of up to two years. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICA) stipulates that all passengers must possess a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months, as well as any required visas, a filled out Singapore Arrival Card, and proof of health, including a yellow fever vaccination certificate. You risk being denied entry or placed in quarantine if you do not comply.
- Facilitating Illegal Accessed Areas
It is a crime to aid another person in entering or leaving Singapore illegally. A fine of up to S$6,000 and a prison sentence of six months to two years are the consequences of a conviction. A minimum of three cane strokes may be imposed in cases where the offender is found to have been involved in an organized effort or conspiracy. This is in accordance with the provisions of the Penal Code that deal with criminal conspiracies and willful abetment, specifically Section 107.
- Moving Undocumented Immigrants
There are major repercussions to being in the transportation business, whether by land, sea, or air, of illegal immigrants. Offenders risk a minimum of three canings and a prison sentence of two to five years if found guilty. If it is proven that the accused transported illegal immigrants, the IA will presume guilt and put the burden of proof on the individual to prove otherwise.
- Providing Refuge to Unauthorized Immigrants
Another crime with severe punishments is providing lodging to an individual who has broken immigration laws. If the evidence is there, the court can assume that the person providing shelter knew they were harboring an illegal immigrant. The maximum fine for an offender is S$6,000, and the prison term is between six months and two years. There is a reduction to a 12-month maximum sentence in cases of carelessness, meaning the offender did not adequately verify the immigrant’s status.
- Engaging the Services of Illegal Immigrants
The crime of employing an unauthorized immigrant carries severe penalties, including fines of up to S$6,000 and jail terms of six months to two years. Furthermore, caning can be enforced in cases where five or more undocumented immigrants are working side by side, unless the employer qualifies for an exemption. Even more severe are the penalties for companies, with fines ranging from S$100,000 to S$200,000. Criminal charges may also be leveled against company employees who approved or helped facilitate the hiring.
Conclusion
The increasing number of arrests by the ICA clearly demonstrates Singapore’s firm stance on immigration offenses. Businesses and individuals alike need to be well-versed in immigration regulations, particularly those pertaining to housing and employment, and follow them to the letter. Violations can have far-reaching and even fatal consequences, so being ignorant is no defense.
Seek professional legal counsel to learn your rights and options in the event of an immigration offense charge.
