Brunei might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a Southeast Asian getaway, but once you step foot into this tranquil sultanate, you’ll realise it’s a hidden gem. From the majestic golden domes of Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque to the lush biodiversity of Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei offers a refreshing blend of serenity, cultural richness, and natural beauty. But before you begin your adventure, there’s one essential task every traveller needs to complete, the Brunei Arrival Card.
Introduced as part of the country’s efforts to streamline border entry and improve travel safety, the Brunei Arrival Card is a mandatory immigration requirement for most non-residents entering Brunei by air, land, or sea. This digital form is easy to fill out, but getting it wrong could delay your entry—something you definitely want to avoid after a long flight. Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or a quick stopover, understanding how and when to submit your arrival card will save you from last-minute headaches at the border.
In this blog, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know—who needs to fill it out, when to submit, how the online form works, and even a few travel tips to ensure a smooth arrival process. With this simple yet complete guide, you’ll be fully prepared to land in Brunei worry-free and ready to explore.
🛂 What Is the Brunei Arrival Card?
The Brunei Arrival Card, also known as the E‑Arrival Card, is an electronic immigration form that all foreign nationals entering Brunei—by air, land, or sea—must complete before arrival. It replaces the old paper-based arrival or landing cards and acts as both immigration and customs declaration in one streamlined digital process. Unlike a visa, the Arrival Card is required in addition to any visa or travel permit. Transit passengers who do not pass through Brunei immigration control are generally exempt from this requirement.
✅ Why Is It Important?
- Speeds up your arrival process, as your information is pre-submitted electronically
- Eliminates filling paper forms on the plane or at the airport
- Ensures a smoother entry—especially during peak travel hours.
👪Who Needs to Fill in the Brunei Arrival Card and Who Is Exempted
All travelers entering Brunei Darussalam—regardless of nationality—must complete the Brunei Arrival Card (E-Arrival Card) before arrival, whether traveling by air, land, or sea. This includes tourists, business travelers, and returning residents. The E-Arrival Card is an essential part of Brunei’s border control system and helps streamline entry procedures by collecting necessary personal, travel, and health-related information in advance.
However, some travelers are exempt from submitting the Brunei Arrival Card:
- Bruneian Citizens re-entering the country using a valid Bruneian passport
- Permanent Residents of Brunei
- Diplomatic passport holders and members of diplomatic missions accredited to Brunei
- Transit passengers who will not go through immigration (i.e., those remaining in the international transit area)
- Crew members of commercial airlines and ships, provided they remain on duty and follow designated procedures
It's important to note that even if you're exempt from the arrival card, other immigration or customs requirements may still apply.
💡To avoid any issues at the border, travelers should check the latest requirements on the official Immigration and National Registration Department (INRD) Brunei website before their trip.
📝 How to Fill Out the Brunei Arrival Card
Filling in the Brunei Arrival Card is a simple and straightforward online process. Travelers are required to submit the form within 3 days (72 hours) before their scheduled arrival in Brunei. Here's a step-by-step guide:
✅1. Access the Online Portal
Go to the official E-Arrival Card portal provided by the Immigration and National Registration Department (INRD). Ensure you're using a secure internet connection.
✅2. Select “Arrival”
Choose the “Arrival” option if you're entering Brunei. If you're also planning to leave and re-enter soon, there's an option for both arrival and departure details.
✅3. Enter Your Personal Details
Fill in your:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Passport number and expiry date
✅4. Provide Travel Information
Include:
- Flight number or vehicle/sea transport details
- Country of departure
- Date and estimated time of arrival in Brunei
- Purpose of visit (e.g., tourism, business, work, family)
✅5. Accommodation Details
State where you will be staying in Brunei:
- Hotel name and address, or
- Residential address if staying with friends or relatives
✅6. Submit Health and Declaration Info
Depending on current regulations, you may be asked to declare recent travel history, health status, or contact with infectious diseases. Answer all questions honestly.
✅7. Review and Submit
Double-check all information before submitting the form. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation slip or QR code—keep this with you (printed or saved on your mobile device), as you’ll need to present it upon arrival.
💼 What You Need to Complete the Brunei Arrival Card
🧳 Required Information & Items
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
Passport | Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival |
Flight details | Include your flight number, arrival date, and port of entry |
Accommodation address | Hotel name or residential address in Brunei (required for immigration) |
Email address | Used to receive confirmation and any updates |
Mobile device | The form can be completed on a phone, tablet, or computer |
Cost | Completely FREE ✅ |
🔍 Tip: Fill out the form at least 72 hours before your flight to avoid last-minute issues.
🧳 Pro Tips for a Smooth Arrival in Brunei
Make your arrival in Brunei seamless with these quick tips:
✈️ Submit Your Arrival Card Early
Complete the E-Arrival Card within 72 hours before your scheduled arrival. Don’t wait until the last minute—technical issues or missing info could delay your entry.
🛂 Double-Check Your Passport Validity
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival.
📄 Save Your Confirmation Slip or QR Code
After submitting the Arrival Card, save or screenshot the confirmation. You’ll need to show it during immigration clearance—digital or printed formats are both accepted.
🎒 Have Travel Documents Ready
Keep your passport, return/onward ticket, hotel booking, and any supporting documents (like visa approval, if applicable) easily accessible.
📌 Know the Local Customs
Brunei is a conservative Islamic country. Dress modestly, respect local laws, and avoid bringing restricted items such as alcohol or pornography.
💰 Currency Exchange
The Brunei Dollar (BND) is the official currency, but Singapore Dollars (SGD) are also accepted at par. It’s still a good idea to exchange some cash or withdraw at the airport.
📶 Stay Connected
Buy a local SIM card at the airport for convenient access to the internet, including showing your arrival QR code or using ride-hailing apps.
😀Ready for Your Trip to Brunei?
Traveling to a new country always comes with a mix of excitement and preparation—and Brunei is no exception. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or reconnecting with loved ones, the Brunei Arrival Card plays a key role in ensuring a smooth and efficient entry process. By completing it ahead of time and following the right steps, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and be free to focus on what really matters: experiencing the charm and tranquility of Brunei.
From its majestic mosques and peaceful water villages to the untouched beauty of Ulu Temburong National Park, Brunei offers a refreshing blend of tradition, nature, and quiet luxury. So, take a moment to get the formalities sorted before you fly—and arrive ready to explore a destination where time slows down and every detail feels intentional. Enjoy your trip, travel smart, and selamat datang (welcome) to Brunei Darussalam!
📌 FAQs About the Brunei Arrival Card
What is the Brunei Arrival Card?
The Brunei Arrival Card (also known as the E-Arrival Card) is an online travel declaration form required for all travelers entering Brunei Darussalam. It collects basic personal, travel, and health information to assist immigration procedures. It must be submitted prior to arrival—within 72 hours of your entry into the country.Is the Brunei Arrival Card mandatory for Singaporeans?
Yes. All Singaporean citizens entering Brunei must complete the Brunei Arrival Card before arrival, regardless of the purpose of visit. This applies whether you’re entering by air, land, or sea. It is separate from visa requirements and is compulsory even for visa-exempt travelers.Do I need a visa to enter Brunei as a Singaporean?
No, Singaporean passport holders do not need a visa to enter Brunei for short visits (up to 30 days) for tourism, business, or social purposes. However, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.How do I fill out the Brunei Arrival Card?
Go to the official Immigration Department website and select the E-Arrival Card service. You'll need to enter your personal and passport details, arrival date and port of entry, purpose of visit and accommodation or address in Brunei. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation slip or QR code—save it digitally or print it out to present at immigration.When should I submit it?
The E-Arrival Card must be completed and submitted no earlier than 3 days (72 hours) before your scheduled arrival in Brunei. Submissions made outside this timeframe may not be valid, so be sure to submit it within that window to avoid issues at the border.