EZ-Link Card in Singapore - Singapore Public Transport Guide 2026
If you're planning a trip to Singapore, navigating this vibrant city is a breeze with the EZ-Link Card is a must-have for affordable and efficient public transportation. Whether you're heading to Universal Studios Singapore, exploring the bustling streets of Chinatown, or hopping between Singapore attractions via the MRT Singapore system, this card offers unbeatable convenience. Read on for your complete guide to using the EZ-Link Card Singapore, designed especially for tourists seeking hassle-free travel.
Key Takeaways
- The EZ-Link Card is most suitable for tourists who intend to have a flexible itinerary or other tourists who intend to stay longer than 3 days.
- Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) will suit short-stay visitors who want to visit numerous attractions daily with the help of public transportation.
- EZ-Link cards are affordable, simple to reload, as well as used to make small retail purchases.
- STP has the advantage of providing unlimited travel, but it is not cost-effective in case you do not take the public transport regularly every day.
- To prevent penalty fares, you will always need to tap in and out using your EZ-Link card.
- Both of the cards make your Singapore visit and your experience more convenient, quicker, and less expensive
What is an EZ-Link Card?
EZ-Link Card is a non-contact travel card utilised in the Singapore mass transport system. It makes the process of payment for the travel simple, and it gives the passengers ease and freedom in the payment process. Singapore tour packages and EZ-Link cards will smooth out your travel and make it comfortable.
Pro Tip: The card also works at selected retail outlets, making small purchases ultra-easy during your trip.
Where Can I Buy an EZ-Link Card?
EZ-Link cards can be purchased at TransitLink ticket counters at most MRT stations and at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Cheers. When you arrive at Changi Airport, you can also get the card at the Travelex exchange counter. It is easy to find across the city, making your Singapore on a budget experience both seamless and affordable.
Travel Hack: Opt for the Hi!Tourist SIM card from Singtel (SGD 15) that includes an EZ-Link card preloaded with SGD 3, saving the initial SGD 5 card fee.
How to Use an EZ-Link Card?
The EZ-Link card Singapore is very easy to use; all you need to do is tap it on the card reader before entering or exiting the MRT platform or bus. To ensure accurate fare calculation, tap it both at the time of boarding and alighting. If you do not tap before exiting, the maximum price will be reduced.
Benefits of EZ-Link Card
1. Cost-effective
EZ-Link cards often offer cheaper fares than paying with cash, especially when transferring between different modes of transport within the same journey. Since a maximum of 5 transfers are allowed per trip, you can save significantly on transportation costs on your trip to Singapore.
2. Convenient and easy
The EZ-Link card offers unparalleled convenience and hassle-free experiences, such as making exact changes or avoiding standing in line for tickets. Just click and go, and your journey will be smooth and stress-free. For frequent travellers, the EZ-Link Card is an affordable and convenient solution.
3. Stress-Free Travel
Avoid long queues or the need for exact change. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers.
Singapore Travel Planning Overview
Trip Factor | Recommendation |
| Best Time to Visit Singapore |
|
| Recommended Trip Duration | 3–5 days to explore Sentosa Island, Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios and Chinatown. |
| Top Places to Visit | Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, Universal Studios Singapore, Merlion Park, Chinatown, Orchard Road |
| Must-Try Experiences | Night Safari at Singapore Zoo, Sentosa cable car ride, Marina Bay Sands light show and shopping at Orchard Road. |
| Average Singapore Trip Cost (from India) | Rs. 70,000 – 1,20,000 per person for a 4–5 day trip, depending on flight prices, hotel category and attractions visited. |
Planning a holiday to Singapore? Explore our Singapore Family Tour Package and customise your itinerary with the best deals available.
Singapore Tourist Pass
For visitors staying in Singapore for a short period, the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) offers unlimited travel on buses, MRT and LRT. It is an excellent option to cut down on unwanted costs. It is available in one-, two- or three-day options; the pass provides flexibility and helps save some money.
For unlimited rides, consider the Singapore Tourist Pass (STP):
- Available in 1-day (S$22), 2-day (S$29), and 3-day (S$34) variants.
- Ideal for first-time visitors planning to cover Universal Studios Singapore, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, and more using public transport.
Note: Available at TransitLink offices in major MRT stations like Orchard, Changi, and City Hall.
EZ-Link Card vs Singapore Tourist Pass (STP): A Quick Comparison
Feature | EZ-Link Card | Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) |
| Initial Cost | S$5 (non-refundable) + minimum S$3 top-up | S$22 (1-day), S$29 (2-day), S$34 (3-day) |
| Top-Up Required? | Yes | No (unlimited rides included) |
| Usability | Pay-as-you-go | Unlimited rides for valid days |
| Validity | Long-term | 1–3 consecutive days |
| Refundable? | Balance refundable at the TransitLink office | Refundable deposit (S$10) for the pass only |
| Best For | Light to moderate public transport users | Heavy users within a short trip |
| Retail Usage | Yes (at selected outlets) | No |
| Available At | 7-Eleven, Cheers, MRT, Changi Airport | TransitLink offices at MRT stations |
So, when you plan to book your Singapore Package, keep an EZ-link card as your essential buy too!
FAQs
1. What is an EZ-Link Card in Singapore?
A: An EZ-Link Card is a contactless stored-value travel card used to pay for MRT, LRT and bus fares in Singapore. It lets travellers tap in and out without buying individual tickets.
2. How much does an EZ-Link Card cost in Singapore?
A: A standard EZ-Link Card typically has a non-refundable card cost of SGD 5, plus the amount you choose to load onto the card for travel. Prices and card types can vary, so check the current fare and purchase options before travelling.
3. Where can I buy an EZ-Link Card in Singapore?
A: You can buy EZ-Link Cards at selected MRT stations, TransitLink ticket offices and participating convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Cheers. Some airport retail counters may also sell eligible EZ-Link products.
4. Can tourists buy an EZ-Link Card in Singapore?
A: Yes. Tourists can buy and use an EZ-Link Card for public transport in Singapore. It is a convenient option for visitors who plan to use MRT and buses regularly during their trip.
5. How do I use an EZ-Link Card in Singapore?
A: Tap your EZ-Link Card on the reader when entering and exiting an MRT station or when boarding and alighting from a bus. Always tap in and tap out with the same card to ensure the correct fare is charged.
6. How do I top up my EZ-Link Card in Singapore?
A: You can top up an EZ-Link Card at selected MRT stations, ticketing machines, TransitLink offices and participating retail outlets. The available top-up methods depend on the type of EZ-Link Card you have.
7. How much money should I put on my EZ-Link Card for a Singapore trip?
A: For a typical 3–5 day Singapore trip, start with a modest balance and top up when needed rather than loading a large amount at once. Your actual requirement depends on how frequently you use MRT and buses and how far you travel each day.
8. Is the EZ-Link Card better than the Singapore Tourist Pass?
A: The EZ-Link Card is generally better for travellers who use public transport lightly or moderately, while the Singapore Tourist Pass can be more suitable for visitors planning many public transport journeys each day. Compare your expected daily travel before choosing.
9. Is EZ-Link Card cheaper than paying for Singapore public transport with cash?
A: EZ-Link is more convenient than paying cash for bus fares and allows you to pay the applicable card fare without buying individual tickets. For most tourists, using a contactless travel card or an accepted bank card is more convenient than carrying cash.
10. Can I use an EZ-Link Card on the MRT and buses?
A: Yes. EZ-Link Cards can be used on Singapore's MRT, LRT and public bus network, making them useful for sightseeing across areas such as Marina Bay, Chinatown, Orchard Road and Sentosa.
11. Do I need to tap my EZ-Link Card when exiting Singapore MRT?
A: Yes. You should tap your EZ-Link Card when entering and exiting the MRT system. Tapping out ensures that the correct fare is calculated and helps prevent fare or card issues.
12. Can I use one EZ-Link Card for two people?
A: No. Each passenger should use a separate travel card because the card must be tapped in and out for every journey. Families and groups should generally purchase one card per traveller who needs to use public transport.
13. Can I use my EZ-Link Card for shopping in Singapore?
A: Some EZ-Link cards can be used for payments at selected participating retail outlets. However, acceptance varies, so it is best to use the card primarily for public transport unless the retailer clearly accepts EZ-Link payments.
14. Is the EZ-Link Card refundable in Singapore?
A: Depending on the card type, the remaining stored value may be refundable at eligible TransitLink locations, subject to the applicable rules. The card purchase fee itself may be non-refundable.
15. How long is an EZ-Link Card valid in Singapore?
A: EZ-Link Card validity depends on the specific card type. Standard stored-value cards are intended for longer-term use, while tourist-specific EZ-Link products can have different validity conditions. Check the expiry date or terms of your card before travelling.
16. Which is better for Indian tourists: EZ-Link Card or Singapore Tourist Pass?
A: EZ-Link is usually a better choice for Indian tourists who plan moderate public transport use or stay for several days. The Singapore Tourist Pass can be better for short trips with frequent MRT and bus journeys throughout the day.
17. Can I use an EZ-Link Card from Changi Airport?
A: Yes. Depending on the current card availability, tourists can purchase an eligible EZ-Link product at Changi Airport or at transport and retail locations after arrival. You can then use it for public transport around Singapore.
18. Do children need an EZ-Link Card in Singapore?
A: Children may need a separate travel card depending on their age and eligibility for child fares. Check Singapore's current public transport fare rules before purchasing a card for a child.
19. Is an EZ-Link Card worth buying for a 3-day Singapore trip?
A: It can be worth buying if you plan to use MRT and buses regularly but do not expect enough daily journeys to justify an unlimited pass. For heavy public transport use across all three days, compare the total expected fares with the current Singapore Tourist Pass price.
20. What is the best transport card for tourists in Singapore?
A: The best card depends on your travel pattern. An EZ-Link Card suits flexible, pay-as-you-go travel, while the Singapore Tourist Pass suits visitors who expect frequent public transport journeys during a short stay.
