Is Singapore cashless?
Go cashless#10 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #1 of 32 in Asia
Short answer: Leave the cash at home: cards and phones work on the MRT, buses and at most hawker stalls. For cash, use a UOB or Maybank ATM.
Singapore is highly cashless. Contactless works on the MRT and buses, and even most hawker centres now take cards or QR payments.
Will my card work?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Singapore, and contactless is common.
Do I need cash?
Rarely. You can get by in Singapore with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Local currency: Singapore dollar (SGD)
How does tipping work?
Not expected. A 10% service charge is usually included.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Some ATMs are fee-free
Some bank ATMs charge foreign cards about S$3-8 per withdrawal. The fee shows on screen before you confirm.
Fee-free options
- UOB (reported free)
- Maybank (reported free)
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Some older hawker stalls are still cash only.
Frequently asked questions
Is Singapore cashless?
Singapore scores 90/100 on Cashlessy (go cashless), ranking #10 of 197 countries. Singapore is highly cashless. Contactless works on the MRT and buses, and even most hawker centres now take cards or QR payments.
Do I need cash in Singapore?
Rarely. You can get by in Singapore with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Are credit cards accepted in Singapore?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in Singapore, and contactless is common.
Do you tip in Singapore?
Not expected. A 10% service charge is usually included.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Singapore?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Singapore.
Which ATMs are free in Singapore?
Some bank ATMs charge foreign cards about S$3-8 per withdrawal. The fee shows on screen before you confirm. Best options: UOB (reported free); Maybank (reported free).
Compare with Asia
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.