Liquor Licence and Import Permits in Singapore: A Simple Guide
Updated: Oct 25
The process of handling alcohol import regulations in Singapore appears complex to many individuals. Supplying liquor needs a licence from the Singapore Police Force under the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015. Importing it is a separate step: liquor is dutiable, so each shipment needs a Singapore Customs permit with duty and GST paid.
Liquor licences are applied for through the GoBusiness portal. The Customs permits for each shipment are filed in TradeNet.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
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In this article |
Step 1: Getting to Know the Types of Liquor Licences in Singapore
Let's talk about the different licences you should get to know:
Class 1A and 1B Licences:
1A covers all types of liquor for drinking at the licensed premises. 1B is the same but with shorter trading hours.
Class 2A and 2B Licences:
2A covers beer only, for drinking at the licensed premises. 2B also covers beer only, with trading hours set in the licence.
Class 3A and 3B Licences:
3A covers retail supply of all types of liquor for drinking elsewhere, such as takeaways and deliveries. 3B is the same, for beer only.
Class 4 & Class 5 Licences:
Class 4 covers wholesale supply of liquor, while Class 5 is a temporary licence for a short period, such as a one-off event (up to 30 days).
Each licence type comes with specific trading hours and conditions. Check the SPF liquor licence page for the class that fits your business.
Step 2: Eligibility Requirements to Apply for a Liquor Licence
Meeting eligibility requirements is crucial. The Singapore Police Force must assess you as a fit and proper person, and the premises as suitable for supplying liquor. The full criteria are on the SPF liquor licence page.
Step 3: Application Process for a Liquor Licence in Singapore
Applications go through the GoBusiness portal. Pick your licence type, gather the documents SPF asks for, such as your ACRA business profile and the URA or HDB approval for the premises, and submit online. After paying the fee, you will be told the outcome.
Need help with a permit or customs clearance? Talk to a Declaration Nexus declaring agent on WhatsApp. or call +65 6589 8122 · email enquiry@declarationnexus.com |
Step 4: Complying with Licence Conditions and the Liquor Control (Supply and Consumption) Act 2015
Follow the licence conditions. Supply liquor only at the licensed premises and within the trading hours in your licence, and never to anyone under 18. O
ur team prepares and files TradeNet permits from the documents you provide.
Step 5: Renewal of a Liquor Licence
Keep your licence current. A regular licence lasts up to 1 year, and you renew it before it expires through GoBusiness.
Need a declaring agent in Singapore?
Speak to a Declaration Nexus declaring agent about your next permit or clearance. Call: +65 6589 8122 WhatsApp: +65 8786 3987 Email: enquiry@declarationnexus.com Office: 60 Paya Lebar Road, Unit 07-54 Paya Lebar Square, Singapore 409051 |
Our Customs Permit Services
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FAQs About Liquor Licence Application in Singapore
Q: Which kinds of alcohol necessitate a licence in Singapore?: All types of alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine, and spirits require a licence if you intend to import, sell, or distribute them. Even beverages with low alcohol content need appropriate licensing.
Q: How long does it take to process a liquor licence application?: SPF says processing typically takes around 3 weeks. Complex applications might take longer if additional documents or clarifications are needed.
Q: Is it possible to obtain a temporary liquor licence for a single event?: Yes. A Class 5 temporary licence covers a short period of up to 30 days, such as a one-off event, and must be for consecutive dates. Apply early through GoBusiness.
Q: What are the consequences of not adhering to licence conditions?: Breaching licence conditions can lead to suspension of the licence for up to 6 months, cancellation, fines or criminal charges. Supplying liquor without a licence carries a fine of up to $20,000 for a first offence.
Q: Are foreign firms able to apply for a liquor licence?: Yes, however, you need to possess a locally registered company with ACRA as well as a local director who fulfils the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion: Start Serving with Confidence
Get the SPF licence in place before you supply liquor. Declaration Nexus prepares and files TradeNet permits from the documents you provide. Prepared to begin? Reach out to us today - we’re ready to assist you.
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PUBLISHED BY Declaration Nexus Team Declaring agent and customs broker at Paya Lebar Square, Singapore |
Last updated 25 October 2026. Correction, 25 October 2026: The liquor licence classes and the temporary licence class now match the Singapore Police Force's published list, and we have clarified that the licence covers supplying liquor, while each import needs a Singapore Customs permit. Have a customs question? WhatsApp the Declaration Nexus team at +65 8786 3987. |
