Where to Buy MRT Card in Singapore: Guide for Visitors & Residents

Introduction

Singapore is a city that impresses from the moment you arrive, with its modern skyline, rich culture, and efficient infrastructure. One of the best ways to experience it all is by using the MRT, but many new visitors are unsure about how to access and pay for public transport.

Questions like “Which card should I buy?”, “Where do I get it?”, and “Can I just use my phone?” are incredibly common. While Singapore’s transport network is easy to use, it can be slightly confusing at first without guidance.

 This guide simplifies the process, explaining the different cards available, where to get them, how to use them, and which one is best for you, whether you’re here for a quick getaway, an extended visit, or a long-term stay.

Understanding Singapore’s Public Transport Payment Options

Singapore’s public transport is ranked among the best in the world. It’s clean, safe, affordable, and extremely efficient. However, to use it seamlessly, understanding the payment system is crucial. The key to unlocking the entire network lies in choosing the right travel card for your needs.

What is an MRT Card?

An MRT card is a contactless smart card used to pay for rides on Singapore’s MRT, LRT, and buses. It works on a stored-value system, where the fare is deducted automatically when you tap in and out.

This system is much more convenient and cost-effective than buying single-trip tickets every time. Besides travel, some cards like EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay also let you make small purchases at shops, vending machines, and even taxis.

 These features, combined with easy top-ups and long validity, make MRT cards a practical choice for both short-term visitors and residents.

Primary MRT Card Options

Singapore offers three main options for using public transport, each catering to different types of travelers. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. EZ-Link Card

• Most widely used transport card in Singapore.
• Accepted on all MRT and LRT lines, buses, and even taxis, and some retail outlets.
• Easy to top up via machines, mobile apps, or over-the-counter services.
• Has a 5-year validity period and can be registered online for balance protection.
• Available at most MRT stations, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, and even online platforms.

2. NETS FlashPay Card

• Functions almost identically to the EZ-Link card but with broader use in retail environments.
• Popular with locals who use it for parking, food courts, and small transactions.
• Offers up to seven years of use and can be topped up at ATMs, machines, and stores.
• Accepted by taxis and some retail stores, making it slightly more versatile in daily life.

3. Singapore Tourist Pass

• A time-based pass offering unlimited rides for 1, 2, or 3 days.
• Specially designed for visitors aiming to explore multiple places in a short span.
• Offers convenience without the need to top up repeatedly.
• Available at selected TransitLink offices and Changi Airport.
• Comes with a refundable deposit that encourages users to return the card responsibly.

Comparison Table: EZ-Link vs. NETS FlashPay vs. Tourist Pass

Feature	EZ-Link	NETS FlashPay	Singapore Tourist Pass
Type	Stored-Value	Stored-Value	Unlimited Ride Pass
For Transport?	Yes	Yes	Yes
Retail Use?	Some Locations	More Widely Used	No
Ideal For	Most Travelers	Residents/Locals	Short-Term Tourists
Top-Up Required?	Yes	Yes	No (fixed time validity)
Expiry	5 years	7 years	1-3 days (based on plan)
Refund Option	Partial balance	Partial balance	Full deposit
Where to Buy	MRT stations, GTMs, convenience stores	MRT stations, ATMs, stores	Changi Airport, major MRT stations

SimplyGo: A Modern Cardless Alternative

SimplyGo is Singapore’s initiative to make transport even more seamless. It allows commuters to pay directly using their contactless credit or debit card or via digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. As of recent updates, SimplyGo supports most local and many international cards, but users should confirm compatibility before travel.

How It Works: Simply tap your bank card or mobile wallet on the MRT gate or bus reader. No MRT card is needed. The fare is calculated and charged to your card. The transaction summary can be tracked using the SimplyGo app, which is available for iOS and Android.

Comparison Table: Physical MRT Card vs. SimplyGo

Feature	EZ-Link / NETS FlashPay (Physical Card)	SimplyGo (Bank Card / Mobile Wallet)
Requires Separate Purchase	Yes	No
Top-Up Needed	Yes	No
Works with App	Yes (EZ-Link / SimplyGo app)	Yes (SimplyGo app)
Retail Transactions	Yes (Selected merchants)	No
Accepted on MRT & Buses	Yes	Yes
Ideal For	Residents, medium- to long-term visitors	Tourists, short-term stays, tech-savvy users

Note: Always confirm your bank card’s compatibility with SimplyGo before relying on it as your sole payment method, especially if you’re visiting from overseas.

Where to Buy Your EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay Card

Buying an MRT card in Singapore is a straightforward process, but knowing your options can save you time, money, and hassle. Depending on your arrival point, accommodation, or daily schedule, different outlets might be more convenient. Here are the best places to purchase your EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay card.

1. Passenger Service Centres (PSCs) at MRT Stations

These are staffed service counters located in almost all major MRT stations. Ideal for first-timers, PSCs offer the benefit of speaking with someone who can walk you through the process, especially if you have questions about card usage, balance, or top-ups.

• Where to find them: Located at the control stations inside MRT stations. Look for signage directing you to “Passenger Service” or “Ticketing Counter.”
• Services offered: Buy new cards, top-up existing cards, check balances, or get help with faulty cards.
• Payments accepted: Mostly cash; some locations may accept card payments.
• Pros: Personalized service, accessible from train platforms, immediate issue of card with stored value.
• Best for: Tourists who want help navigating their first trip or residents who want assistance registering their cards.

2. General Ticketing Machines (GTMs)

GTMs are self-service machines located at all MRT stations and LRT stations. These machines are a convenient way to purchase a new EZ-Link card or top-up your existing one.

• How to use: Choose “Buy New Card” or “Top Up,” insert cash or card, and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Minimum top-up: Usually S$10 for first-time purchases.
• Pros: Fast, accessible 24/7, available at every MRT station.
• Cons: Machines can be confusing for first-timers, especially during busy hours.
• Pro Tip: Top up at least one station in advance to avoid queues at peak travel times.

3. Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Cheers) 

If you’re in a hurry, you can purchase an EZ-Link card from almost any 7-Eleven or Cheers convenience store across the island.

• Availability: These stores are open late or even 24/7 and are usually located near MRT exits, inside malls, or residential areas.
• Card details: Cards sold here often come preloaded with S$5 or S$7 stored value.
• Payment options: Cash and credit/debit card.
• Pros: Easy access, especially outside MRT station hours.
• Cons: Slightly more expensive due to initial stored value or service fees.

4. Post Offices (SingPost

Singapore’s post offices are another place to purchase EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay cards. They are a good option for residents who need official receipts or plan to register the card.

• Use case: Less busy than MRT stations; good for administrative needs.
• Services: Purchase, top-up, and register cards.

5. TransitLink Ticket Offices at Bus Interchanges 

For those living or staying in suburban neighborhoods, bus interchanges often have TransitLink ticket offices where you can get all services related to MRT cards.

Comparison Table: Where to Buy MRT Cards

Location	Card Types Sold	Payment Methods	Tourist Friendly?
MRT Station PSCs	EZ-Link, FlashPay	Cash, Some accept Card	Yes
GTMs	EZ-Link	Cash, Some Cards	Yes (Self-help)
7-Eleven / Cheers	EZ-Link (Preloaded)	Cash, Card	Yes
Post Offices	EZ-Link, FlashPay	Cash, Card	Neutral
Bus Interchange Offices	EZ-Link, FlashPay	Cash, Card	Yes

Purchasing a Singapore Tourist Pass

The Singapore Tourist Pass is a must-have for visitors who plan to explore the city intensively over a short period. It simplifies the whole process by allowing unlimited rides on the MRT, LRT, and public buses, offering great value and convenience.

What is the Singapore Tourist Pass? It’s a time-based travel pass that allows you to travel as much as you want on basic public transport services for one, two, or three days. It excludes premium bus services and is non-transferable.

Ideal for:

• Travelers with packed itineraries.
• Visitors who plan to use MRT and bus services more than four times a day.
• Families or groups staying in centrally located hotels.

Coverage Includes:

• All MRT and LRT lines.
• All basic bus services operated by SBS Transit, SMRT, and Tower Transit.

Where to Buy the Singapore Tourist Pass:

• TransitLink Ticket Offices at key MRT stations such as:
  • Changi Airport
  • Orchard
  • Bugis
• Some convenience stores and online platforms (for e-vouchers).

Refundable Deposit: A S$10 refundable deposit is required when purchasing the card. You can claim this deposit by returning the card to the original issuing location within 5 days of purchase.

Benefits:

• Cost-effective for high-frequency travel.
• No need to queue for top-ups.
• Easy to understand and use.

Drawbacks

• Limited availability locations.
• Deposit forfeited if not returned in time.

Plan Type	Cost (Including Deposit)	Refundable?	Ideal For
1-Day Tourist Pass	S$20 (S$10 usable fare)	Yes	Day-trippers
2-Day Tourist Pass	S$26	Yes	Weekend tourists
3-Day Tourist Pass	S$30	Yes	Sightseeing travelers

How to Top Up Your MRT Card (EZ-Link/FlashPay)

Once you’ve purchased your MRT card, keeping it topped up is crucial to avoid travel disruptions. Singapore offers a variety of top-up methods to suit different preferences, including self-service, retail-based, and app-based options. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your card ready for every journey.

Why Top-Up Is Necessary:

• Your MRT card operates on a stored-value system, meaning you need to have a positive balance before starting a journey.
• The minimum fare required is typically S$3. If your balance is below this threshold, you won’t be able to enter the MRT system.

Top-Up Methods:

1. General Ticketing Machines (GTMs):

• Available at every MRT station.
• Step-by-step:
  • Tap your card on the reader.
  • Select the “Top Up” option.
  • Choose your amount (the minimum is usually S$10).
  • Insert cash or card (based on machine).

2. Passenger Service Centres (PSCs):

• Staffed counters where you can top up with assistance.
• Ideal for those unfamiliar with machines or needing language support.
• Accepts cash and in some cases, NETS or cards.

3. Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Cheers):

• Top up while shopping or grabbing a snack.
• Typically, top-up is done in cash only.
• Minimum and maximum top-up amounts may vary.
• Note: Not all clerks may be equally knowledgeable; ask politely for assistance.

4. EZ-Link App / SimplyGo App:

• Best for tech-savvy users or those on long stays.
• Link your card to your phone (NFC is required for physical card interaction).
• Use your credit or debit card to top up anytime, anywhere.
• Also provides transaction history, balance notifications, and card-blocking features in case of loss.

5. ATMs (for NETS FlashPay only):

• Selected ATMs (like OCBC, DBS/POSB) allow FlashPay top-ups.
• Convenient for residents with bank accounts in Singapore.

How to Check Your Card Balance

Checking your card balance regularly ensures you never face unexpected travel disruptions. Whether you’re planning a long sightseeing day or just heading home from work, here are the most efficient ways to keep track.

1. MRT Station Entry/Exit Gates:

• When you tap your card, your balance is displayed briefly on the screen.
• Simple, instant check every time you travel.

2. General Ticketing Machines (GTMs):

• Use the “Check Balance” function without topping up.
• Great for verifying before long rides or transfers.

3. EZ-Link / SimplyGo Apps:

• Once your card is linked, you can check your balance on the go.
• View real-time transactions, past travel history, and fare breakdowns.
• Receive alerts when your balance is low.

4. Passenger Service Centres:

• Ask the staff to check the card balance for you.
• Useful for seniors or travelers unfamiliar with technology.

Troubleshooting Common MRT Card Issues

Even with a robust system, occasional problems may arise. Here’s how to deal with the most common MRT card issues confidently and efficiently.

Problem	Likely Cause	Solution
Card not working	Low balance, physical damage	Check balance at GTM or PSC; if damaged, get a replacement at TransitLink
Insufficient balance warning	Below S$3 minimum threshold	Top up at the nearest GTM, PSC, or convenience store
Card rejected at gate	Expired card, faulty chip	Visit a PSC or TransitLink office to diagnose the issue
Lost or stolen card	Misplaced during travel	Report immediately via EZ-Link app or PSC; get a replacement card
Refund request	Unused balance upon departure	Go to a TransitLink office; bring passport and card receipt
Confusing fare deduction	Travel over multiple zones or lines	Use SimplyGo app to view fare breakdown

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About MRT Cards

Tips for Different Visitor Types

Your ideal MRT card depends on how long you’re staying in Singapore and how often you plan to use public transport. If you’re here for just a few days and plan to travel a lot, the Singapore Tourist Pass or SimplyGo is perfect, unlimited rides or direct tap payments mean you spend less time topping up and more time exploring.

For visitors staying a bit longer, the EZ-Link card is a better fit. It’s reloadable, easy to manage with the EZ-Link app, and accepted island-wide. Long-term residents benefit most from a registered EZ-Link card paired with the app for features like auto top-up and balance protection.

Families should know that kids under 7 and below 0.9m travel free with an adult, while older children should have a Child Concession Card. Business travelers in town for meetings or conferences will appreciate SimplyGo’s ease, just tap your bank card or phone and go.

Now that you know which MRT card suits you best, don’t miss our complete guide on how to use the Singapore MRT to make your journey even smoother.

Conclusion

Singapore’s MRT card system offers flexibility and efficiency for all types of travelers. From the versatile EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay cards to the all-access Singapore Tourist Pass and the digital convenience of SimplyGo, every visitor or resident has a fitting option. For the smoothest experience, buy your card early, ideally at Changi Airport, and download the companion app for your chosen method to manage trips, top-ups, and travel history effortlessly. With the right card in hand, exploring Singapore’s world-class public transport network becomes a seamless part of your adventure.

Reminder: For updates on fares and service details, consult official sources like TransitLink, EZ-Link, and SimplyGo.