With the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link only slated for completion by December 2026, the cross-border bus remains the most popular way to enter Malaysia. Thousands of commuters cross the Causeway and the Second Link every day. Navigating the different bus operators, pickup points, and border protocols can feel overwhelming for first-timers.
This guide provides exact routes, fares, and step-by-step instructions on clearing immigration so you can reach Johor Bahru smoothly.
Which bus operators travel from Singapore to Johor Bahru?
Travellers have a few reliable options for crossing the border. Public buses managed by SBS Transit and SMRT are highly affordable and integrate seamlessly with Singapore’s MRT network. Private operators like Causeway Link (often called the “yellow buses”) and Transtar Travel offer direct point-to-point services from various commercial hubs.
Here is a quick comparison of the primary bus operators running cross-border routes:
| Operator | Route Types | Estimated Fare | Payment Methods |
| SBS Transit | Woodlands | From S$1.09 | EZ-Link, SimplyGo, Bank Cards |
| SMRT | Woodlands | From S$1.40 | EZ-Link, SimplyGo, Bank Cards |
| Causeway Link | Woodlands & Tuas | S$2.60 – S$4.80 | EZ-Link, ManjaLink, Visa, Cash |
| Transtar Travel | Woodlands & Tuas | S$3.00 – S$15.00 | Online Booking, Cash |
What are the main bus routes to the Woodlands Checkpoint?
The Woodlands Checkpoint, also known as the First Link, connects directly to Johor Bahru Sentral (JB Sentral). This is the busiest crossing, ideal for travellers heading to popular city malls like City Square or Komtar JBCC.
Choose SBS Transit or SMRT if you prefer cheap fares and want to tap in with your everyday EZ-Link card.
- SBS Transit 160: Departs from Jurong Town Hall Interchange and ends at JB Sentral Terminal.
- SBS Transit 170: Starts at Queen Street Terminal near Bugis and goes all the way to Larkin Terminal in JB.
- SBS Transit 170X: Offers a fast loop between Kranji MRT station and JB Sentral Terminal.
- SMRT 950: Runs from the Woodlands Temporary Bus Interchange to JB Sentral Terminal.
Causeway Link operates several express routes to the Woodlands Checkpoint. These buses are slightly more expensive but make fewer stops.
- CW1: Connects Kranji MRT directly to Larkin Terminal.
- CW2: Connects Queen Street Terminal to Larkin Terminal.
- CW5: Departs from Newton Circus and drops passengers at the JB Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complex.
What are the main bus routes to the Tuas Second Link?
The Tuas Second Link connects the western part of Singapore to the Sultan Abu Bakar CIQ Complex in Johor. This route is typically less congested than Woodlands and is highly recommended if your final destination is Bukit Indah, Legoland Malaysia, or the Eco Botanic area.
Causeway Link dominates the Tuas crossing with multiple boarding locations across western Singapore.
- CW3 / CW4 / CW4S: These buses depart from the Jurong East Interchange and head straight to the Second Link CIQ.
- CW6: Picks up passengers at the Boon Lay Way bus stop right outside Boon Lay MRT.
- CW7: Departs from opposite the Tuas Link MRT station.
Transtar Travel also operates the TS6 route, which brings passengers from The Star Vista at Buona Vista through the Tuas Second Link.
How do bus passengers clear Singapore and Malaysia immigration?
Taking a cross-border bus means you will need to alight the vehicle twice. The immigration process is highly structured, and understanding the steps will save you a lot of time and confusion.
1. Clearing Singapore Immigration
When your bus arrives at either the Woodlands or Tuas Checkpoint, the driver will ask all passengers to alight. You must take all your personal belongings and luggage with you.
Proceed into the immigration hall. The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has implemented a QR code clearance system for bus passengers. You can generate a QR code using the MyICA mobile app, which replaces the need to scan a physical passport at the automated lanes. Alternatively, standard passport scanning counters remain fully operational.
2. Boarding the transit bus across the bridge
After clearing Singapore immigration, follow the signs down to the bus bay. You need to board a bus to cross the physical bridge over the water.
You must board the same brand of bus you originally paid for to avoid paying a second fare. For example, if you took an SBS Transit bus to the checkpoint, you can board any available SBS Transit bus (160, 170, or 170X) to cross the Causeway. If you tap your EZ-Link card, the system recognises it as a continuing journey. Causeway Link passengers simply show their physical ticket to the driver when re-boarding.
3. Clearing Malaysia Immigration at JB CIQ
Once the bus crosses the bridge, you will alight again at the Malaysia CIQ complex. Bring all your luggage, as the bus will not wait for you.
Head up the escalators to the Malaysia immigration hall. Singapore citizens can use the automated e-gate counters located on the left side of the hall for much faster clearance. Foreigners and tourists must join the manual counter queues and present their passports. After your passport is stamped or scanned, you will pass your bags through a security scanner before officially entering Johor Bahru.
Frequently asked questions about travelling from Singapore to JB
Can I use an EZ-Link card for bus fares to Johor Bahru?
Yes. You can use your EZ-Link card or SimplyGo-linked bank cards on all SBS Transit (160, 170, 170X) and SMRT (950) buses. Causeway Link also accepts EZ-Link cards and Visa credit cards, though they have their own proprietary ManjaLink travel card specifically designed for frequent cross-border commuters.
Do Singaporeans need to fill out the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC)?
No. As of January 2024, Singapore citizens are exempt from completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). However, most foreign passport holders and permanent residents must complete the MDAC online within three days prior to their arrival in Malaysia.
How long does the bus journey take from Singapore to JB?
The travel time depends entirely on border traffic. On a quiet weekday morning, the journey from Kranji MRT to JB Sentral can take as little as 45 minutes. During peak hours, public holidays, or Friday evenings, the same trip can take anywhere from two to four hours due to severe congestion at the immigration checkpoints.
What should I do if I lose my Causeway Link physical ticket?
If you paid for your Causeway Link bus fare in cash, the driver provides a small paper ticket. You must hold onto this ticket. When you clear Singapore immigration and need to re-board a Causeway Link bus to cross the bridge, you must show this ticket to the driver. If you lose it, you will have to pay the full cross-border fare again.
Final tips for a smooth border crossing
Taking an SG to JB bus requires a bit of patience, but the immense cost savings make it worthwhile. To ensure a smooth trip, always double-check your bus route before boarding, keep your MyICA app updated for quick QR code clearance, and avoid travelling during major long weekends if possible. Have your passport and travel documents easily accessible, and you will be enjoying Johor Bahru’s food and shopping in no time.
