ElaineCrossing the border from Singapore to Johor Bahru is easier than ever, thanks to the convenience of Causeway Link’s CW bus services. Whether you’re planning a weekend of shopping at KSL City Mall, cafe-hopping in Mount Austin, or a family day out at Legoland Malaysia, these bright yellow buses will get you there without the stress of driving.
Here’s a guide on how to get to both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from various parts of Singapore and what you should prepare to make immigration clearance smoother, especially with the new QR-code system.
Also read: Mid Valley Southkey Food Guide for Singaporeans
Travelling to Johor Bahru via Woodlands Checkpoint
Image credit: Kokkai Ng via Canva Pro
If your destination is in central Johor Bahru, such as Mid Valley Southkey, KSL City Mall, Komtar JBCC, City Square JB, Johor Premium Outlets, Aeon Tebrau or Mount Austin. The Woodlands route is your best option.
Causeway Link buses heading to JB via the Woodlands Causeway stop at JB CIQ First Link, where you’ll alight for immigration clearance before continuing your journey into the city.
From Singapore, you can board the following buses: CW1 from Kranji MRT Station (Exit C), CW2 from Queen Street Bus Terminal near Bugis and CW5 from Newton Circus. Each of these buses takes you directly to the Malaysian side of the Causeway. Once you’ve cleared immigration, you can either walk or take a connecting bus, depending on your destination.
Travelling to Johor Bahru via Tuas Checkpoint
If you’re visiting destinations in the Iskandar region, including Gelang Patah, Sunway Iskandar, Legoland Malaysia, Puteri Harbour, Forest City and Aeon Bukit Indah, the Tuas Second Link route is the way to go.
These buses head to JB CIQ Second Link, where you’ll complete immigration clearance before connecting to other destinations in Johor.
From Singapore, you can choose from the following CW services: CW3 from Jurong Town Hall Bus Interchange, CW4 from Jurong Town Hall Bus Interchange (weekday service), CW6 from Boon Lay MRT Station and CW7 from Tuas Link MRT Station.
After clearing immigration at JB CIQ Second Link, you’ll find connecting Causeway Link services to destinations across the Johor Iskandar area.
The Tuas route is generally smoother and less crowded than Woodlands, making it ideal if you’re travelling beyond central Johor Bahru or during peak hours.
What to prepare for a smoother immigration experience
Image credit (R): Image credit: Immigration & Checkpoints Authority Official Facebook
Also read: How to use QR Code and Malaysia App to enter Johor Bahru (JB)
Cross-border travel has become much more efficient in recent years, and Singapore and Malaysia’s new QR-code clearance system helps speed things up at both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. Here’s what to keep in mind before you board your bus.
If you’re travelling on weekends or public holidays, try to arrive early at your chosen bus departure point, as queues can get long during peak hours. Keep a bit of small change ready for bus fares, and don’t be surprised if you need to switch buses after clearing immigration.
Ensure that you have your valid passport and any necessary travel documents ready. Even if you’re using a QR code, immigration officers may still ask to see your passport for verification.
With the new QR code systems installed, once you’ve downloaded the MyICA app and MyNIISe mobile app, you can simply scan your QR code at the designated lanes instead of presenting your passport. It’s also a good idea to generate your QR code before you travel, rather than at the bus stop, in case of any app or connection issues. Keep your phone fully charged and your code easily accessible.
Final thoughts
Choosing the right checkpoint comes down to where you’re headed. Whichever route you take, Causeway Link’s CW buses offer an affordable, comfortable and reliable way to cross the border. And with the new QR-code clearance system, your trip from Singapore to Johor Bahru can now be quicker and more seamless than ever.
