Travel Cards for Public Transport

Your comprehensive guide to public transport payment options in Singapore

EZ-Link Card

Most versatile option for transport and retail

Tourist Pass

Unlimited rides for short-term visitors

NETS FlashPay

Alternative for transport and payments

Contactless Cards

Use your own credit/debit cards

EZ-Link Card

Validity & Usage

5 years from date of purchase

  • Store up to SGD 500
  • Use for MRT, LRT, and buses
  • Accepted at retail stores
  • Non-refundable card cost

Where to Buy

Multiple convenient locations

  • MRT Station ticket offices
  • General Ticketing Machines
  • 7-Eleven and Cheers stores
  • Transit Link offices

Cost & Top-up

SGD 10 initial cost

  • SGD 5 stored value
  • SGD 5 card cost (non-refundable)
  • Minimum top-up: SGD 10
  • Maximum stored value: SGD 500

Top-up Options

Multiple convenient methods

  • MRT station GTMs
  • Convenience stores
  • AXS stations
  • EZ-Link mobile app

Singapore Tourist Pass

1-Day Pass

SGD 10

  • Unlimited rides on MRT/LRT
  • Unlimited bus rides
  • SGD 10 refundable deposit
  • Perfect for short visits

2-Day Pass

SGD 16

  • Unlimited rides on MRT/LRT
  • Unlimited bus rides
  • SGD 10 refundable deposit
  • Best for weekend trips

3-Day Pass

SGD 20

  • Unlimited rides on MRT/LRT
  • Unlimited bus rides
  • SGD 10 refundable deposit
  • Ideal for longer stays

NETS FlashPay Card

Card Features

  • 7 years validity
  • Store up to SGD 500
  • Use for transport and retail
  • Wide acceptance at merchants

Cost & Usage

  • SGD 12 initial cost (includes SGD 7 value)
  • Minimum top-up: SGD 10
  • Available at MRT stations & stores
  • Refundable at Transit Link offices

Card Comparison

FeatureEZ-Link CardTourist PassNETS FlashPayContactless Cards
CostSGD 10From SGD 10SGD 12Pay per ride
Validity5 years1-3 days7 yearsN/A
Unlimited RidesNoYesNoNo
Retail PaymentsYesNoYesYes

Transport Fares

MRT/LRT Fares

Distance-based pricing

  • Up to 3.2km: SGD 0.83
  • 3.2km to 4.2km: SGD 0.98
  • 4.2km to 5.2km: SGD 1.13
  • Above 5.2km: Variable rates

Bus Fares

Distance-based pricing

  • Up to 3.2km: SGD 0.92
  • 3.2km to 4.2km: SGD 1.02
  • 4.2km to 5.2km: SGD 1.12
  • Above 5.2km: Variable rates

Our Recommendations

Short Stay (1-3 days)

Singapore Tourist Pass

  • Unlimited rides
  • No top-up needed
  • Simple to use
  • Cost-effective for multiple trips

Long Stay (4+ days)

EZ-Link Card

  • Flexible usage
  • Retail payments
  • Easy to top-up
  • Long validity period

Convenience Option

Contactless Cards

  • No separate card needed
  • Simple tap-and-go
  • Worldwide acceptance
  • No top-up required

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the EZ-Link Card for taxis?

No, but you can use it for retail payments at some taxi stands.

Is the Tourist Pass worth it?

Yes, if you plan to take multiple rides daily during your short stay.

Can I share one card with multiple people?

No, each traveler needs their own card for public transport.

What happens if I lose my card?

Report it immediately and get a replacement (stored value may not be recoverable).