As South East Asia’s largest international hub, Singapore is often a hot spot for international depositions, due to thriving industries in the region such as banking, trading, oil and gas, and shipping. It’s also a relatively easy process to depose a witness in Singapore and there are fewer restrictions here than in other countries like China or Japan, making it an ideal location for a deposition.
If you are traveling to Singapore for your next deposition make sure you brush up on these key travel and cultural tips before boarding the plane.
Visa and passport requirements
To enter Singapore, a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure is required by all nationals prior to traveling. Visas for Singapore are not required by most nationals, and U.S. passport holders may enter Singapore for 30 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa.
Getting Around
Singapore’s subway system, Mass Rapid Transit (MRT), is the easiest, quickest and most comfortable way to get around. Single-trip tickets cost from S$1.40 to S$2.50, or more conveniently purchase a EZ-Link Card, for S$12 you get unlimited train and bus travel.
Airport Experience
Singapore’s major airport is Changi Airport, named “Best Airport in the World” for 26 consecutive years for its premier facilities and services. Some of Changi Airport’s intriguing attractions include a free 24-hour movie theater, the first ever airport butterfly garden, and for those weary after a long flight can book a private room without having to clear immigration at their Transit Hotel.
Connecting to WiFi in Singapore
You don’t have to worry about expensive data plans when exploring Singapore. For as low as $10 a day, you can rent a WiFi router and enjoy unlimited internet access. Portable and convenient, it is small enough to fit into your pocket. For more information or to reserve a router visit: https://www.changirecommends.com/wifi.aspx.
There is also a free city-wide Wi-Fi service called Wireless@SG which you can access by registering by telephone or online. Surfing speed is up to 5Mbps.
Business Card Etiquette
Business cards are exchanged in Singapore at every business occasion, and while business is conducted off a Western model, customs and etiquette are still influenced by Asia. When giving or receiving a business card use both hands, study it for a moment, and carefully place it in a card case or pocket. Business cards are handled with great respect because they represent a person’s identity.
Weather
Singapore is located close to the equator, meaning it’s hot and humid – throughout the year. If you want to keep from looking wilted and damp take a taxi, Uber, or the MRT, all options are relatively cheap and delightedly air-conditioned.
Accommodations
Hoping for breathtaking views of the city and bay? It’s definitely not hard to find in Singapore, which offers a variety of top-notch accommodations ranging from luxurious to edgy – and even a Las Vegas inspired hotel! Though accommodations in Singapore are not cheap, you can find better rates on longer stays with Singapore’s Airbnb.
Have Fun
Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the opportunity to discover new places and people. If possible, schedule some time to get out there and explore a little.
About Optima Juris
Optima Juris is the only U.S. agency exclusively dedicated to international depositions. We have been helping law offices across the globe find the highest-quality certified court reporters, legal videographers, and interpreters for over 17 years. If you should have any questions about international depositions, please do not hesitate to contact us or fill out a free quote to see how we can make your international deposition a complete success.
Follow us on social media for news, advice, info, and tips about international court reporters, interpreters, and language services:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optima-juris
Twitter: https://twitter.com/optimajuris
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optimajuris
Google+: https://google.com/+Optimajuris
Travel for your deposition in Singapore