Tamlyn RichardsSince late March, certain COVID-19 restrictions in Singapore have been eased, particularly regarding social gatherings and events, mask-wearing and more. This comes as part of Singapore’s plan to “live with Covid-19”.
The new measures aim to further improve Singapore’s businesses and economy, as well as a return to normalcy in terms of daily life. In his speech in March, PM Lee attributed the move to ease COVID-19 restrictions to Singapore’s high vaccination rate and the gradual decrease of Omicron infections.
Mask requirements and social gatherings
Image credit: Victor He
While the wearing of masks outdoors is now optional, it will still be required indoors.
Starting 26 Apr 2022, group sizes will no longer be subject to a limit. Additionally, safe distancing measures between groups will be removed.
Furthermore, the ban on alcohol sales in pubs and eateries after 10.30pm has been lifted.
Also read: Singapore’s Vaccinated Travel Framework: All You Need to Know Before Travelling
Revised COVID rules for dining-in
Image credit: National Environment Agency Official Website
In addition, Vaccination-differentiated safe management measures (VDS) will be removed for most settings. However, they will remain for events with more than 500 participants. These events include weddings, nightlife establishments, and F&B establishments.
That said, “random spot-checks“ will be done to ensure that only vaccinated persons are dining in at these places.
Returning to offices
Image credit: Flying Cloud
Once the latest easing of COVID restrictions come into effect on 26 Apr, all workers may return to the workplace, up from the current quota of 75%.
Capacity limit for large events and live performances
Image credit: Mikael Kristenson
The present capacity limit for larger events and settings is 75%. This limit will be removed with the exception of nightlife businesses where dancing among patrons is one of the intended activities, which are still subject to the 75% capacity limit.
Also read: 8 New Attractions in Singapore for an Immersive Experience
Image credit: Kane Reinholdsten
Finally, live performances have now resumed at all venues. The prevailing safe management measures such as keeping to a group size of 10 will still have to be followed.
TraceTogether and SafeEntry check-in
As most places will not be using VDS management measures, checking into establishments using the TraceTogether and SafeEntry mobile app will no longer be implemented.
After two years of on-and-off restrictions, it’s nice to finally see a gradual return to normalcy in daily life in Singapore!
