JOHOR BARU: Malaysia registered cars and motorcycles will be able to enter Singapore from 11.59pm on March 31 following the announcement of the reopening of land borders between the two countries.

       However, the Singapore Land Transport Authority (LTA) reminded those driving foreign-registered vehicles into the island republic to ensure they have a valid vehicle entry permit (VEP) first.

       “Application for the VEP must be done online via VEP Digital Services on LTA’s OneMotoring website.

       “They will not be allowed to apply for VEP, Autopass cards or update their road tax and motor insurance for their existing Autopass cards at Singapore’s land checkpoints,” it said in a statement here Friday (March 25).

       The statement added that applications for new VEP or Autopass cards, updates on foreign registered car and motorcycle road tax and motor insurance for existing valid Autopass cards, can be made via https://onemotoring.lta.gov.sg.

       The statement also noted drivers of foreign registered vehicles must receive LTA’s VEP approval email before they travel.

       “Those without Autopass cards must collect it at LTA’s Johor Baru service centre, which is located at 34, Jalan Tun Abdul Razak Susur 1 before entering Singapore.

       “Those with existing valid VEPs can continue to go across from 11.59pm on March 31 while those who are unable to present valid Autopass cards together with LTA’s VEP approval emails at Singapore’s checkpoints will be turned back to Malaysia,” it added.

       The statement also said in anticipation of a significant increase in the volume of VEP applications, LTA will be conducting a system upgrade on its VEP Digital Service on LTA's OneMotoring website.

       It added the expected downtime will be from March 24 to March 30. Vehicle owners will be able to access the system from 31 March.

       “Travellers are advised to plan at least two weeks ahead of their intended travel dates to allow sufficient time for VEP application and approval.

       “Due to the expected increase in applications, we seek their understanding that LTA may take a longer time to process VEP applications during this period.

       “Leisure travellers are encouraged to defer their plans to allow those with essential travel needs, such as for employment or to reunite with their families, to make their trips,” it said.