Foreigners caught vaping may have passes revoked, be banned from re-entering S'pore

Foreigners who are caught vaping risk having their passes revoked, being deported and banned from re-entering Singapore, under stiffer measures that will kick in from Sept 1.

- Zaihan Mohamed Yusof

The authorities announced on Aug 28 that foreigners caught with e-vaporisers will have their vapes seized, and they will be fined.

Repeat offenders will face more severe consequences, said the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Home Affairs.

Short-Term Visit Pass holders who reoffend will be banned from re-entering Singapore.

Foreigners on a long-term pass, such as an Employment Pass, S Pass, work permit, Student's Pass, Long-Term Visit Pass or Dependant's Pass, may have their pass revoked on a third offence. They could also be deported and banned from re-entering Singapore.

Likewise, foreigners caught with etomidate vapes - or Kpods - or those who test positive for the drug, may have their passes revoked, be deported and banned from entering Singapore.

Any appeals will be considered on a case-by-case basis, the authorities said.

The tougher measures are part of moves by the Government to tackle the vaping scourge.