Singapore Customs launches app for advanced duty, GST payments

Travellers can pay GST before getting to Singapore.

Travellers can now pay duty and goods and services tax (GST) for their purchases before they even step foot in Singapore.

According to Singapore Customs, travellers who use its new app Customs@SG no longer need to make a stop at the Customs office or kiosk to make their payments. They need only to make an advance declaration and pay through the app.

Once the payment is made, the app will provide the user an e-receipt that can be stored in the traveller’s phone. The traveller can exit the checkpoint through the Customs Green Channel. When the traveller is stopped for checks, they only need to show the e-receipt as a proof of payment to the inspecting officer.

Besides duty and tax declaration and payment, the Customs@SG app also has a Tip-Off features that allows members of the public to provide tip-off on suspected illegal cigarette peddling activities. There is also a Feedback module through which members of the public can send queries or feedback to Singapore Customs.

For travellers who prefer to make the declaration and payment online through their own computers, a web application is available.

Members of the public can download the app from the Apple Store and Google Play, while the web application can be accessed through the Singapore Customs website.