Arrests in Singapore
This is general information only — contact a lawyer for advice on your specific situation.
Singapore's legal system differs from Australia's, and you're bound by local laws and penalties - even ones that seem harsh by Australian standards. See Singapore Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller
An arrest or investigation can mean a long exit restriction from Singapore - weeks or months for most cases, years for serious offences. You can't leave, or get a replacement passport, until it's resolved, and you'll need to support yourself financially throughout.
Local law
Police can detain anyone - including minors - for up to 48 hours without charge, and decide during that time whether to charge or release you. You may not be allowed to contact anyone, including a lawyer or the High Commission, and police aren't required to notify us of your arrest.
If charged, the court decides whether you're detained further or granted bail. Even without a charge, police can hold your passport and stop you leaving Singapore during further investigation.
If an Australian has been detained in Singapore, please contact us 24 hours a day on +65 6836 4100 (Option 2).
Local lawyers
Find a lawyer via the Law Society of Singapore (External Link) or the Ministry of Law Singapore (External Link). DFAT doesn't endorse or guarantee any lawyer on these lists, and isn't liable if you engage one.
Legal aid
Can't afford a lawyer? You may be eligible for the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme (CLAS), which helps foreign applicants facing non-death-penalty charges. See Pro Bono SG (External Link) for eligibility and how to apply.
Useful links