Guide: How To Go To Johor Bahru (JB) From Singapore (SG-JB Corder Border Solution)

Last updated 21 Sep 2024SGMYTAXI

This is the ultimate guide for how to travel from Singapore to JB. Here, I’ll list down the transport options for travelling from Singapore to JB.

Due to heavy congestion between Singapore and Malaysia, even Singaporeans will try to seek a better way or timing to cross the border.

I would also suggest that you identify the purpose of your trip—whether it’s a family trip, business trip, solo trip, and etc.

It’s also good to know if it’ll be a casual outing with small luggage, or whether you’ll be travelling with kids and several big luggage.

This is because it won’t be practical to alight at the checkpoint with so many luggage bags. It is especially worse if you have a baby or kids with you.

You’ll end up wasting all your energy at the congested checkpoint instead of your holiday!

Look at the table of contents below and navigate to the particular section that will answer your questions.

From there, our handy guide will help you to plan your trip to SG & JB.

 

1. SG Arrival Card (SGAC) & Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

Please note that foreigners must fill in their personal information before entering Singapore or Malaysia. This is not a visa but an “arrival submission”.

Both arrival submissions are listed as follows. Please look into the information you need to ensure a smooth process.

 

1.1 SG Arrival Card (SGAC)

Before entering Singapore, you will need to prepare an electronic health declaration form known as the SG Arrival Card (SGAC).

This documentation needs to be presented to the immigration counter upon arrival.

 

Who Need To Submit SGAC?

All travelers will need to submit the SGAC before entering Singapore:

Singapore Residents	Visitors
Singapore citizens Singapore Permanent Residents (PR) Long-Term Pass Holders (Long-Term Visit Pass, Dependant’s Pass, Work Pass, and Student’s Pass)	Foreign Visitors Registered Travelers in the Frequent Traveler Program

 

However, if you are a traveler transiting through Singapore without immigration clearance, you are exempted from this arrangement.

Singapore residents who are travelling through Tuas and Woodlands Checkpoints are exempted as well.

 

When Need To Submit SGAC?

You will need to submit your SGAC within 3 days (including the day you arrive at Singapore airport) before you enter the country.

This helps make your travel more efficient during immigration clearance.

However, if you have forgotten to submit it prior to landing, there will be officers on standby to assist you before the immigration counter.

 

How To Submit Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) Before Enter To Singapore?

Submitting it is easy, just follow these steps:

• Download the MyICA Mobile application from the Apple App Store or Google Play or access the application at https://eservices.ica.gov.sg/sgarrivalcard/.
• Select your category accordingly (Singapore Citizen/PR, Long-Term Pass Holder, Foreign Visitor).
• Once you’ve completed the form, you will receive an electronic acknowledgement of your submission. If you submitted via the website, you will receive an e-mail acknowledgement.
• Present the document at the electronic counter.

Depending on your country’s passport, you may not need to liaise with a physical immigration officer and proceed to the automated clearance lanes.

 

1.2 Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)

The Malaysian government has made travelling much easier with an electronic pre-arrival form, MDAC, for all travelers to fill up before landing in Malaysia.

 

Who Need To Submit MDAC?

It is compulsory for all foreign travelers to complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).
You are exempted from this requirement if you are one of the following:

• Singaporean citizens
• Diplomatic and Official Passport holders
• Malaysian PR and Long-term Pass holders
• Brunei Malaysia Frequent Traveler Facility holders
• General Certificate of Identity (GCI) Brunei Darussalam holders
• Thailand Border Pass holders
• Indonesia Cross-Border Travel Document (PLB holders)

For a quicker immigration process, you may be eligible for Malaysia’s automated clearance system (MACS 2.0), also known as E-gate.

Foreign business and social travelers from selected countries have access to Malaysia’s automated gate.

For more information, refer to the information brochure and MDAC’s official website.

 

When Need To Submit MDAC?

You will need to submit your MDAC within 3 days before your arrival in Malaysia. We encourage submitting it in advance to prevent any complications.

 

How To Submit Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) Before Entering Johor, Malaysia?

• Submit your application on https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main.
• Select your category with one of the two options:

 

Malaysia Autogate Facilities For Foreigners	Foreign Visitors
MACS Holder Long-Term Pass Holder Travelers from: Australia, Brunei, Germany, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom	Other countries

• Once you’ve completed the form, you will get the acknowledgement. You can take a screenshot or print out the confirmation to avoid delays at the immigration.
• Provide the travel document with the pin code to the immigration counter.

(If you have used E-gate before, you will not need to go through the manual immigration counter.)

 

 

2. Purpose & Location in JB

There are several important factors that you’ll need to identify for your travels in JB, Johor or Malaysia. This way, you’ll make better decisions about the type of transportation you will need.

This section could get a little complicated, so let’s break it down:

Number of people	If you are travelling with family, including kids, babies, elderly people, please DO NOT take the bus from Singapore to JB. It really won’t be convenient.
Luggage	Long trips or group trips where there will be a large amount of luggage, avoid taking the bus. That is because you will have to alight all of your luggage at immigration. It’ll be too troublesome with so many bags.
Budget	If budget is your main concern, you can try the KTM train as your alternative and travel during office hours and avoid holidays and weekends. If you don’t mind paying more, get a private taxi. It’ll be a more comfortable way to travel.
Location	If you’re a couple travelling to JB town, go by bus. You can easily hail a Grab to get around town. It’s comparatively cheaper than in SG (∼RM5-RM20). Plus: if there’s more of you, you can split the cost. Outside of JB (i.e. Legoland, JPO, Senai Airport, Desaru, etc.), you can consider renting a car or hiring a private taxi from Singapore.
Timing	If you want to save time and energy, avoid travelling in the jam. Since the checkpoint is also very congested, you’ll just be adding more time to your journey.

In short, if you’re planning a family or group trip with kids or elderly people, or if you’re bringing several luggage bags, don’t take the bus.

If budget permits, go by car or hire a private taxi service from Singapore for added convenience and hassle-free travel.

Know beforehand where you want to go in Johor and plan accordingly to avoid any unnecessary traffic jams.

 

3. Border: Woodlands Checkpoint or Tuas Checkpoint

Get to know both checkpoints so that you can get an idea of which route to take, especially when you’re travelling by bus to JB. Identifying the bus routes will save time!

 

3.1 Woodlands Checkpoint (First Link)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/fWs63kLSNAeSkqG69

Are you heading to JB town, hitting spots such as JB City Square, Komtar JBCC, KSL City Mall, Mid Valley Southkey, Mount Austin, and Tebrau?

Then take any of the following buses below to Woodlands Checkpoint.

 

Buses go through Woodlands Checkpoint as below:

Causeway Link Bus: CW1, CW2, CW5, CWL

Singapore – Johor Express: SJE

SBS Bus: 160, 170, 170X

SMRT Bus: 950

Transtar Bus: TS1, TS3, TS8

Ridewell Travel Bus: AC7

More details about the bus destination, refer to Section 4 below.

 

 

3.2 Tuas Checkpoint (Second Link)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/qy5pkFMt58pxkvR46

Visiting Puteri Harbour, Sunway Iskandar, Legoland Malaysia, Gelang Patah, or Bukit Indah? Take any of the following buses below to Tuas Checkpoint.

 

Buses go through Tuas Checkpoint as below:

Causeway Link Bus: CW3, CW4, CW4S, CW6, CW7, CW3L, CW3S, CW4G, CW7L, FC1

Transtar Bus: TS6

4. Available Transport Options From Singapore To JB (Private Taxi / Self-Driving / Bus / Train / Ferry / Flight / Foot)

These are the available transport options you can consider. I have listed down some options and official information so that you can make the best decision.

In short, I can tell you that taking the bus would be the easiest and most affordable option. Just keep in mind you’ll spend more time in traffic and at checkpoint clearance.

Travelling to JB by car would be the best choice. You can drive either there on your own or hire a private taxi. (Do expect higher expenses but an increased flexibility to travel around.)

Have a look at the transport options listed below.

 

4.1 Private Taxi From Singapore To JB

Private taxi is the most convenient way to go to Johor Bahru from Singapore, especially for families travelling with younger children, elderly people or a group of friends with 5 to 10 people.

It costs you only SGD100 to pick-up you from your doorstep for your whole family with a luxury MPV vehicle.

Why Choose SGMYTAXI Private Taxi:

• Door-to-door private taxi to JB from Singapore in 30 – 45 minutes (depending on traffic conditions)
• Direct book vIa WhatsApp
• Reasonable pricing rates
• No need to disembark from private taxi at Singapore Checkpoints and JB Checkpoints.
• Pick you up at your preferred location in Singapore anytime and drop-off in JB.
• Well-maintained 7 to 10 seater MPV car
• Possible feedback from customers

4.2 Self-Driving From Singapore To JB

If you prefer more flexible travel in JB or Malaysia for entire trip, you can drive on your own.

Then, how to cross the border between Singapore and Malaysia? Follow the steps below:

Step 1: Prepare Require Documents Before Driving Into Malaysia From Singapore

• Passport(validity must more than 6 months)
• Driving Licence(you can drive in Malaysia for up to 90 days with Singapore driving license)
• Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP)(register VEP online once with RM10)
• Touch ‘n Go (TNG) card(top up your TNG card before your trip due to no top-up machines at the checkpoints)
• 3/4 Petrol Tank Rule(Singapore-registered vehicles are required to have at least ¾ of fuel when leaving Singapore via land checkpoints)
• Data Roaming Plans

 

Step 2: Singapore Immigration Clearance At Tuas Checkpoint Or Woodlands Checkpoint

There are 2 ways to across the Singapore-Malaysia border by car as below:

1. QR Code

Driver only needs to scan the QR code to go out and go in Singapore either at Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoints without passport.

More info, refer here: Travelling Singapore To/From Malaysia With QR Code

People who allow to QR code system to enter and leave Singapore:

• Singapore Citizens
• Permanent Residents
• Long-Term Pass Holders (FIN)
• Foreign Visitors (on subsequent trips)

2. Physical Passport

You can still opt to present physical passport to the ICA officer at the counter for immigration clearance either at Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoints.

Note: Even if the barrier is removed following immigration clearance, you are still required to pay the toll. Otherwise, a fine up to SDG 1000.

 

Step 3: JB Immigration Clearance At JB CIQ Link or JB CIQ Second Link

QR code for immigration clearance is not yet implemented in JB land checkpoint, so you still need to present your passport for immigration clearance.

Reminders: You’re required to roll down the windows & switch on car interior lights to let officers check all the passengers in the car.

 

Step 4: Pay Road Charge & Toll Fee Using Touch N Go Card

In Malaysia, you can only use TNG card to pay all the road and toll payments.

Singapore Checkpoint Toll Charges	Malaysia Checkpoint Toll Charges
Woodlands Checkpoint: ●   SGD$0.80 Tuas CheckPoint: ●   SGD$2.10 (Peak Hours) ●   SGD$1.10 (Off-Peak Hours)	JB CIQ ●   RM2.90 JB CIQ 2nd Link ●   RM4.00

More details of toll fee, refer here: Singapore-Malaysia Toll Fee

Emergency: If you forget to bring TNG card, you may ask the car after you to borrow your card and pay them with cash.

 

Step 5: Proceed GREEN Line If Nothing To Declare

If you don’t have any dutiable and prohibited goods to declare, drive through green lane.

4.3 Bus From Singapore To JB

Here are all the buses from Singapore to JB via Woodlands Checkpoint and Tuas Second Link.

For details of each bus routes From Singapore to JB, you may read this post that I have written -> Bus From Singapore To JB

List of Buses from Singapore to JB Via Woodlands Causeway

Bus No.	Via JB Woodlands 1st Link
CW1	Kranji MRT to JB CIQ/Sentral
CW2	Bugis Queen Street to JB CIQ/Sentral
CW5	Newton Circus to JB CIQ/Sentral
SJE	Bugis Queen Street to JB CIQ/Larkin Sentral
160	Jurong Town Hall to JB CIQ/Sentral
170	Kranji MRT to CIQ1st Link /Larkin Sentral JB
170X	Kranji MRT to JB CIQ/Sentral
950	Woodlands Interchange to JB CIQ/Sentral
AC7	Yishun Interchange to JB CIQ/Sentral
TS1	Changi Airport to JB CIQ/Larkin Sentral
TS3	Pan Pacific Hotel to JB CIQ
TS8	Resort World to JB CIQ/Larkin Sentral
CWL	JB CIQ 1st Link to Larkin Sentral JB

 

List Buses From Singapore to Johor via Tuas Second Link

Bus No.	Via JB Tuas 2nd Link
CW3	Jurong Town Hall to Perling JB
CW4	Jurong Town Hall to Pontian Johor (Via Gelang Patah Terminal)
CW4S	Jurong Town Hall to Sutera Mall Entrance
CW6	Boon Lay MRT to Perling Mall JB (Outdoor Bus Stand)
CW7	Tuas Link MRT to CIQ Johor 2nd Link
TS6	Buona Vista  to Gelang Patah Sentral
CW3L	CIQ 2nd Link to Perling Mall & Aeon Bukit Indah JB, Johor Bahru
CW3S	CIQ 2nd Link to Taman Ungku Tun Aminah & Suteral Mall JB
CW4G	CIQ 2nd Link to Terminal Gelang Patah Johor
CW7L	CIQ 2nd Link to Ramadan Meridin Hotel (Legoland)
FC1	CIQ 2nd Link to Forest City

 

Some important notes to take into consideration:

 

SBS Bus 170

• This bus is not recommended due to its long journey (many stops in-between).

 

Bus SJE

• Not recommended either because of its inconsistent frequency and absence of an app to check its departing schedule.

 

Causeway Link Buses CW3, CW4 & CW6

• If your destination in JB is nearer to Tuas Second Link, go by these buses.
• They only have a few stops in-between.

 

For more buses to JB from Singapore, you can read here: Bus To JB From Singapore

 

4.4 Train – KTM Shuttle Tebrau

Shuttle Tebrau is a cross-border train service to and from Singapore Woodlands Train Checkpoint to JB Sentral.

So, how do you take the KTM train to JB from Singapore? Here are the steps:

 

Step 1: Buy KTM Train Tickets To JB Online Or Over The Counter

Visit the KTM Shuttle Tebrau website to check for available ticket dates and times and to book your train to JB.

Alternatively, you may also purchase your train ticket to JB from Singapore over the counter at Woodlands Train Checkpoint.

 

Step 2: Make Your Way To Woodlands Train Checkpoint

Located near the Woodlands Checkpoint bus stop, Woodlands Train Checkpoint is easily accessible by public transportation (bus and MRT) or private vehicle.

Allow ample time to get to Woodlands Train Checkpoint to avoid missing your train. However, if you do miss it, simply walk to Woodlands Checkpoint and catch a bus to JB.

 

Step 3: Scan Your Passport As Your Physical Ticket To Board The Train

Proceed to the departure gate at Level 2 and scan your passport for verification. Your passport serves as your physical ticket to board the train to JB.

Reminders:

• The gate closes 20 minutes before departure so you can’t be late. This is unlike buses, where there is no specific boarding time.

 

Step 4: Go Through Both Immigrations At Woodlands Train Checkpoint

Before boarding the train, you’ll need to pass through immigration checkpoints for both Singapore and Malaysia, with both checkpoints situated on the Singapore side.

 

 

Step 5: Take 5-Minutes Train From Singapore To JB

Hop on for your 5-minute ride on the KTM train from Woodlands to JB Sentral!

 

4.5 Ferry (For Desaru Only)

All ferries from Singapore to Desaru depart from the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal.

From there, the ferry will take you to Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal or Tanjung Pengelih Terminal in Johor.

Location of Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hj51agqLXj7W2Svx9

Step 1: Buy Ferry Ticket To Desaru Online

It is best to buy your ferry tickets online via https://batamfast.com/home/index.ashx/

We have compiled the ticket price and schedule for your reference, as follows:

From Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal	Schedule	Round-trip	One-way
To Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal	8:30am (departure) 5:30pm (return) Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday Only	SGD$108	SGD$70
To Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal	10:40am (departure) 4:00pm (return) Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday Only	SGD$73	SGD$43

 

Step 2: Head To Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, Singapore

Here is a helpful guide to get to Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal:

https://singaporecruise.com.sg/getting-to-the-terminal/tanah-merah-ferry-terminal/

 

Step 3: Immigration Clearance & Custom Checks At Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal

Make sure that your passport, visa and tickets are ready and valid for you to pass through the immigration.

Passports need to remain valid at least six months after your travel date. Otherwise, you risk being denied for boarding and lose a refund.

 

Step 4: Board BatamFast Ferry From Singapore To Terminal Of Choice

From Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal	Things To Note
To Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal	● 90 minutes ride
To Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal	● 35 minutes ride ● This road is not recommended as there are no free shuttle buses to take you to Desaru Coast
To Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal	● Not yet in operation

 

Step 5: Clear Malaysia Immigration & Custom Checks

 

Step 6: Hop On Desaru Coast Shuttle Bus

Once cleared, board a shuttle bus that will take you straight to your resort in Desaru Coast.

• Route 1: Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal To Desaru Coast

From the terminal, hop on the hourly free shuttle bus to Desaru Coast which will take around 10 minutes.

• Route 2: Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal To Desaru Coast

Since there is no complimentary shuttle bus here, the best way is to take land transport which will cost around SGD 20 to SGD 60.

 

 

4.6 Flight From Singapore To JB

Looking for flights from Singapore to Senai? Unfortunately, there are no flights available on the Singapore-Senai route.

No Direct Flight From Singapore To Senai

If you’re heading to KL, you can get a flight from Changi Airport to KL.

 

4.7 Walk From Singapore To JB

If you see people walking on foot across the border from Singapore to JB via Woodlands Checkpoint, 99% of them are Malaysian workers in Singapore going back home to JB.

This happens when there is terrible traffic, especially during peak season like a long holiday. Normally, you won’t see people walking across the border.

There is no shade or proper walkway at the border. It can get very hot, or you could get wet if it’s raining. Walking along the road is also dangerous, whether it’s night or day.

At the Second Link Checkpoint, you’re NOT allowed to walk across the border. It is much longer than Woodlands (10+ km), making it impractical to walk even if it was allowed.

 

5. Best Time to Travel to JB (Try to Avoid Traffic Congestion)

If you are travelling by car or bus, have a look at the suggestions below for when is the best time to travel.

Unless you already have your bus ticket before your travel date, you can try the ferry or KTM train so you won’t have to worry about congestion.

5.1 Best Time To Go JB On Monday To Thursday (Working Days)

Transport Mode	Recommended Timing
By Bus Or Car	● Before 5:00am ● 12:00pm till 3:00pm (Most recommended) ● After 10:00pm

 

5.2 Best Time To Go JB On Saturday (Non Peak)

Transport Mode	Recommended Timing
By Bus Or Car	● Before 5:00am ● 11:00pm till 12:00am (Most recommended)

 

5.3 Best Time To Go JB On Sunday (Non Peak)

Transport Mode	Recommended Timing
By Bus Or Car	● Before 5:00am ● 4:00pm till 12:00am (Most recommended)

 

5.4 Best Time To Go JB On Long Weekend Holiday (Peak Period)

Transport Mode	Recommended Timing
If Public Holiday Fall On Friday	● Before 12:00pm on Thursday ● Before 7:00am on the public holiday
If Public Holiday Fall On Saturday	● Before 6:00pm on Friday ● 12:00pm to 6:00pm on the public holiday

More info, you can refer to Best Time To Enter JB From Singapore

Or you can take a look at the Woodlands Traffic Camera as below

5.5 Journey From Singapore To JB At 2:00pm (Best Timing)

Exit at Kranji MRT station

You will see some shops in Kranji Station

Bus 170 and CW1 bus

Payment by EZ-Link card

The Uncle will issue you a receipt

Reached at  Woodlands Checkpoint

Board the bus again at Woodland checkpoint after clearance

5 mins bus journey at the SG-MY bridge

Reach JB CIQ checkpoint and going up the the custom clearance hall

 

After scan your passport 5 Mins walk to JB Sentral

Then walk your way to JBCC or CS Mall. The end

 

6. My Final Thought & Suggestion

Everybody knows that the Singapore – Malaysia border is one of the busiest and most congested borders. During peak seasons, traffic can go up to 500,000 people.

During those times, bus operators will struggle to even fill the demand.

If you’re confused by all the information, don’t be. To make it simple for yourself, identify your budget for travelling across the border.

It’s logical that the most comfortable way to travel would be more expensive, such as a taxi or private MPV vehicle.

For those of you travelling during non-peak season, just choose any transportation that you like and that matches your budget.

But if you are travelling with family for a holiday weekend or a business trip, you should really consider going by car (be it self-driving, car rental, or private taxi hire).

Otherwise, you’d be exhausted by the time you’re done at customs or even fail to cross the border by public transport.

 

FAQs:

Q1: What is the best transport option from SG to JB?

Private car taxi is the best transport option if you’re travelling with your family, kids, or the elderly.

Q2: Are there any midnight buses from SG to JB?

Yes. Causeway Link Bus CW2.

Q3: Is it true the KTM train to JB takes just 5 mins?

No. 5 minutes is for the KTM ride from SG to JB train station. You will need extra buffer time for Singapore-Malaysia immigration clearance.

Q4: How to walk from JB CIQ to JB Sentral?

Just walk straight ahead after getting out from the counter area. Follow the signs along the way, then walk to JB Sentral.

Q5: How to get to Larkin Sentral from JB Sentral?

Take the connecting Causeway Link Bus CWL at JB CIQ.

Q6: How to get a taxi in JB?

You can get a taxi at the stand located at KTMB Museum, just opposite JB Sentral.

Q7: How do you register MDAC?

You can register MDAC via https://imigresen-online.imi.gov.my/mdac/main

Q8: Should Singaporeans register for E-Gate?

Yes. If you want a smooth and fast immigration clearance, Singaporeans should register for E-gate, as long as you meet the condition of a minimum height of 120cm.

Q9: How to take the bus to Senai Airport from JB Sentral?

Go to JB Sentral Bus Terminal and look for Causeway Link AA1 Shuttle Bus Service. Normally, the bus will pick up passengers from Platform No. 2.

Q10: Which is better—Bus 170 or CW?

CW is better because there are less stops in-between. Bus 170 has many stops in-between.

Q11: Do SG - JB buses accept cash?

Yes. SG - JB buses accept cash payment but make sure you give the exact amount because no change will be given.

Q12: What is the fastest way from Singapore to JB?

Private car taxi!

Q13: Can I take a Grab from Singapore to JB?

No.

Q14: Do I need to print out the Malaysia Arrival card?

No. Starting 1 Jan 2024, all international travellers will have to submit Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three (3) days prior to your arrival in Malaysia.

Q15: How much does it cost to go from Singapore to JB?

As low as SGD$ 1.55 by bus using the Ez-Link Card from Kranji MRT Station to JB CIQ.

Q16: Can I take a flight from Singapore to JB?

No. No flight operating on this route.

Q17: Where to buy a SIM card when I arrive at JB CIQ/Sentral?

You can conveniently purchase a SIM card at JB Sentral CIQ. It is located near the train ticket purchasing counter.

Q18: Where to exchange Malaysian ringgit once I arrive at JB Sentral?

You can refer here: https://www.sgmytaxi.com/money-changer-jb/