When you go for a holiday at Singapore and checking on your hotel bill , you may come across the terms of GST, service charge and other fees.
Unlike some popular destinations, Singapore does not have a separate tourist tax or hotel tourist tax that is being charged to international tourists.
But, the travellers need to be aware and notify of Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Hotels in Singapore
No, Singapore does not charged for a separate tourist tax so foreign tourists do not have to pay a fixed tourist tax for entering Singapore or staying at the hotel.
However, if you see an additional charges when paying for accommodation, dining and other services.
The standard rate for GST in Singapore is 9%.
| Charge | Rate / Details |
|---|---|
GST | 9% on taxable goods and services |
Hotel service charge | Commonly 10%, but depends on the hotel |
Tourist tax | No separate tourist tax |
Hotel tax | No separate hotel tourist tax |
Accommodation and hotel in Singapore is subject to 9% GST, which the final amount of the hotel bill will be displayed depends on whether the hotel is imposes a service charge.
The GST is calculated on the total price, include the service charge.
A service charge is different from GST where a charge is imposed by the hotel or business and this is not a government tourist tax.
Hotels and food beverages businesses is currently imposed a 10% service charge, although the exact rate is depends on the hotel itself.
This is why the hotel is advertised at S$200 may cost more when you are receive the final bill.
However, tourists may be able to claim a GST refund on eligible shopping purchases through Singapore's Tourist Refund Scheme.
For example:
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When you are booking a hotel, you must check whether the advertised room rate is inclusive or exclusive the service charge and GST.
The hotels that impose a service charge are allowed a specific exception to the usual GST inclusive price that display rules, but they must clearly state that the displayed prices are subject to GST and service charge.
| Singapore Tourist Tax | GST |
|---|---|
No separate tourist tax | 9% prevailing GST rate |
Not charged simply for entering Singapore | Charged on taxable goods and services |
Not a fixed hotel tax | Applies to taxable hotel accommodation |
Not charged per person per night | Based on the taxable amount |
No tourist tax payment required at immigration | Usually included in the final price or bill |
Before booking, look at the price breakdown and check whether GST and service charge are included.
Singapore's 9% GST is a general consumption tax, not a special tax charged only to tourists.
If you plan to shop and claim a GST refund, keep your receipts and follow the eTRS process before leaving Singapore.
If you see a 10% service charge and 9% GST, this does not necessarily mean you have been charged a tourist tax. These are separate charges.
When planning your Singapore trip, allow some extra budget for taxes and service charges, especially for hotels and restaurants.
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For most international travellers, the easiest way to think about Singapore's tax system is simple, there is no separate tourist tax but the GST and hotel service charges can increase the final amount you pay.
Before you booking, you can check the price breakdown to help you avoid surprises during the trip.
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