How to pay for the Singapore MRT in 2026: EZ-Link card, SimplyGo contactless, and the Singapore Tourist Pass explained.
How to Get the EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo
EZ-Link: buy at any MRT station General Ticketing Machine (GTM) for SGD $12 (includes $7 stored value, $5 non-refundable card fee). Contactless bank cards work directly without purchase, just tap.
EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo Benefits
- Contactless Visa/Mastercard works at all gates without a separate card (SimplyGo).
- EZ-Link covers MRT, all public buses, LRT feeder services, and some taxis.
- Singapore Tourist Pass (SGD $10/day) gives unlimited rides, ideal for 4+ journeys per day.
- Early morning off-peak discount (free rides before 07:45 at city stations on weekdays) with SimplyGo.
- EZ-Link top-up available at MRT stations, 7-Eleven, Cheers, and online.
Fare Reference (SGD)
Payment methods: EZ-Link card · Contactless Visa/Mastercard/Amex · Singapore Tourist Pass · NETS FlashPay.
💡 A contactless bank card works directly at all MRT gates, no need to buy an EZ-Link card unless you want the Singapore Tourist Pass unlimited rides deal.
| Journey | Off-Peak (SGD) | Peak (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum fare (short journey) | SGD $0.83 | SGD $0.83 |
| Typical journey (5–10 stops) | SGD $1.50 | SGD $1.50 |
| City to Changi Airport | SGD $2.10 | SGD $2.10 |
| Maximum single fare | SGD $2.83 | SGD $2.83 |
| Singapore Tourist Pass (1-day) | SGD $10 | SGD $10 |
| Singapore Tourist Pass (3-day) | SGD $20 | SGD $20 |
Peak hours: No peak fare surcharge, but early morning off-peak discount (before 07:45 at city stations) offers free or discounted rides.
EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo vs Single-Journey Ticket
| EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo | Single-Journey Token / Ticket | |
|---|---|---|
| Fare benefit | Contactless Visa/Mastercard works at all gates without a separate card (SimplyGo). | Standard full fare |
| Queue time | Tap and go, no queue | Buy at a machine each time |
| Initial cost | $12 | Journey cost only |
| Best for | Frequent riders | A single one-off journey |
Tips for Using the EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo
- Tap in and tap out with the same card at every gate. The fare is worked out when you exit.
- Top up before you travel, through the official Singapore MRT app or website where available, or at station machines.
- If you lose the card, contact SMRT Trains & SBS Transit (operated under LTA). Many systems can move the balance to a new card.
- Travelling to or from the airport? See the airport transfer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EZ-Link card in 2026?
Not necessarily. Any contactless Visa, Mastercard, or phone via Apple/Google Pay works directly at all MRT gates (SimplyGo). An EZ-Link card is only needed if your card doesn't have contactless, or if you want the Singapore Tourist Pass unlimited rides deal.
What is SimplyGo?
SimplyGo is Singapore's open-loop contactless payment system on public transport. Tap your contactless bank card or phone directly at the MRT gate, charged at standard distance fares with no card purchase or deposit needed.
Can I get a refund on my EZ-Link card?
You can refund remaining stored value at any MRT TransitLink Ticket Office for a SGD $3 administrative fee. The SGD $5 card purchase fee is non-refundable. Minimum balance to exit is SGD -$0.10.
Which is better, EZ-Link or Singapore Tourist Pass?
Tourist Pass is better if you take 4 or more MRT/bus trips per day. At SGD $10/day, it pays off after 5 trips. For fewer trips, EZ-Link or contactless at ~SGD $1.50–$2.10 per trip is cheaper.
See also: Singapore MRT ticket prices · Airport connection · Full Singapore MRT guide
Source: SMRT Trains & SBS Transit (operated under LTA). Fares and card terms change from time to time, so verify before travel.