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 machine each time |
| Initial cost | $12 | Journey cost only |
| Works on all lines | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Best for | Anyone staying 2+ days | Single one-off journey |
Tips for Using the EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo
- Always tap in AND tap out at every fare gate — tapping out is required to correctly calculate the fare.
- Keep the card topped up before travel to avoid holding up queues at entry gates.
- The EZ-Link Card & SimplyGo works for the airport connection — see the airport guide.
- If you lose the card, contact SMRT Trains & SBS Transit (operated under LTA) — some systems allow balance transfer to a new card.
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 subject to change — verify before travel.