Train From Singapore To JB: A Comprehensive Guide

Singapore and Johor Bahru (JB) are neighboring cities, and traveling between them is a common affair. While several modes of transportation are available, taking the train from Singapore to JB is a popular choice among travelers.

The train service is reliable, affordable, and offers stunning views of the Malaysian countryside. In this article, we'll discuss everything you need to know about taking the train from Singapore to JB.

Train From Singapore To JB: An Overview

View of Johor Bahru Sentral Railway Station

Before we dive into the specifics, let's take a look at the train service from Singapore to JB.

The train service is operated by Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), the national railway company of Malaysia.

The only train that services the Singapore to JB route is called Shuttle Tebrau (also known as KTM Shuttle Tebrau) starts from Woodlands Train Checkpoint in Singapore and ends at Johor Bahru Sentral Railway Station in JB. The service runs several times a day.

Why Take Train From Singapore To JB

First and foremost, taking the KTM Shuttle Tebrau from Singapore to JB cuts out all the stress of waiting in traffic jams and queueing up at an overcrowded custom border. It’s also super fast and affordable. So if you’re tired of the hassle of long immigration queues and unpredictable traffic jams, the train is the perfect solution for you!

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau completes the journey in a mere 5 minutes, making it the most convenient way to get across the Causeway.

How To Get To Woodlands Train Checkpoint

Drop off point at the Woodlands Train Checkpoint

Woodlands Train Checkpoint is located along Woodlands Centre Road.

To reach Woodlands Train Checkpoint, you can take:

• Bus number 170 and 178 from Kranji MRT station
• Bus number 856 from Yishun MRT station
• Bus number 903, 911, 912, and 950 from Woodlands MRT station

There is a small alley for cars to pick up and drop off only.

Buying Train Tickets From Singapore To JB

There are plenty of trains every day, but we recommend booking your train tickets in advance if you want to catch the train to JB on weekends and Friday nights as same-day tickets are almost always sold out.

Tickets are priced as follows:

Singapore to JB: S$5

JB to Singapore: S$1.50

The KTM Shuttle Tebrau is free for children aged 3 and below.

There are 2 ways you can buy train tickets to JB: either online via the KTMB app, or over the counter at the train station. We definitely recommend buying return tickets on the KTMB app as early as you can, as tickets sell out ridiculously fast!

Booking Online

To book a train ticket online, follow these steps:

1. Download the KTMB app (Google / Apple).
2. Create an account or log in to your existing account.
3. Select your departure and arrival stations and the date of travel.
4. Choose your preferred train and seat.
5. Pay for your ticket using your preferred payment method.
6. Download and print your ticket or save it on your mobile device.

Booking at the Station

To book a train ticket at the station, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Woodlands Train Checkpoint station.
2. Head to the ticket counter and select your departure and arrival stations and the date of travel.
3. Choose your preferred train and seat.
4. Pay for your ticket using cash or credit/debit card.
5. Collect your ticket and keep it safe.

Schedule and Timings

Although taking the train takes approximately 5 minutes to complete the journey, do note that the total travel time may vary depending on factors such as immigration clearance and boarding procedures too.

The train service from Singapore to JB runs several times daily. Here's an overview of the train schedule and timings:

Train Schedule: To JB From Singapore

Train Schedule: To Singapore From JB

Immigration and Customs Clearance

As the train from Singapore to JB crosses the border between Singapore and Malaysia, passengers need to go through immigration and customs clearance. Here's what you need to know:

Singapore Immigration And Customs Clearance

Direction to Woodlands Train Checkpoint

At the Woodlands Train Checkpoint station, passengers need to clear Singapore immigration by presenting their passport and disembarking the train. After clearance, passengers can board the train again and continue their journey.

Malaysia Immigration And Customs Clearance

At the Johor Bahru Sentral Station, passengers need to clear Malaysia immigration and customs.

Upon arrival at the Johor Bahru Checkpoint, passengers undergo Malaysian immigration and customs procedures. This involves presenting passports and, for those required, the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). [Note: As of January 1, 2024, Singaporeans are exempt from the MDAC requirement].

Passengers need to disembark the train, go through immigration clearance, collect their luggage, and clear customs. After clearance, passengers can board the train again and continue their journey.

Make sure to carry all the necessary documents, such as passport, visa, and travel itinerary, to avoid any hassle during immigration and customs clearance.

😉 Read on for more information:

✅ E-Gate Malaysia: Exploring the Convenience of Hassle-Free Travel to JB

✅ MDAC: Malaysia Digital Arrival Card Guide

Visa Requirements

As a Singaporean citizen, you don't need a visa to enter Malaysia for up to 90 days. However, you'll need to present your passport at the border and ensure that it's valid for at least six months from the date of entry. If you're a foreigner residing in Singapore, you may need a visa to enter Malaysia, depending on your nationality. Check the Malaysian embassy website for more information.

Travel Restrictions

Starting from August 1st, 2022, Malaysia has opened its borders to all travellers, irrespective of COVID-19 vaccination status. As of now, pre-departure or on-arrival COVID-19 tests are not mandatory, and the Malaysian Government does not enforce any quarantine orders upon your arrival.

However, we advise you to continue practicing COVID-19 preventive measures during your stay in Malaysia to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Travel restrictions and requirements are subject to change, so it's essential to check the latest updates before planning your trip.

Tips for Taking Train To JB From Singapore

• Book your tickets in advance - To avoid disappointment, it's best to book your KTM train tickets in advance. Same-day tickets are almost always sold out, especially on weekends and public holidays.
• Check the train schedule - Make sure you check the train schedule before heading to the train station. There are plenty of trains every day, but they can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
• Bring your passport - Your passport is required for clearance at both Malaysian and Singaporean immigration. Make sure you bring it with you when taking the KTM train to JB from Singapore.
• Be early - Arrive at the train station at least 40 minutes before your train departs to give yourself enough time to clear immigration and board the train.
• Bring your own food and drinks - There is no food or drink service on the KTM train, so make sure you bring your own snacks and drinks.

For more ideas on things to do in JB, where to go in JB, check out our JB travel guide!

Train From Singapore To JB Conclusion

Taking the train from Singapore to JB can be a comfortable and cost-effective way to travel between the two cities. With several trains running daily, flexible ticket options, and stunning views of the Malaysian countryside, the train journey offers a unique experience for travelers.

However, it's important to plan your journey in advance, book your tickets early, and carry all the necessary documents to avoid any last-minute hassle.

We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the essential information you need to know about the train from Singapore to JB. Happy traveling!