SingaporeMy travel agent won't refund a cancelled tour.
Under Singapore law, travel agents must hold client funds in a trust account and refund payments promptly upon cancellation, unless a valid exemption applies.
What the Law Says
The Travel Agents Act governs how licensed travel agents in Singapore must handle customer payments, especially when tours are cancelled.
Section 11 of the Travel Agents Act requires every licensed travel agent to deposit all money received from clients for travel services into a separate trust account — not their business or personal account.
This ensures that client funds are protected and available for refunds if a booking is cancelled or a service is not delivered.
While the Act does not specify an exact number of days for refunds, it imposes a duty on agents to return money 'promptly' upon cancellation, unless a clear, lawful exemption (e.g., non-refundable supplier terms agreed to in writing) applies.
Statutory TextEvery licensed travel agent shall, within such time as may be prescribed, deposit in a trust account all money received by him from any person for the purpose of arranging or facilitating travel or accommodation for that person.
— Travel Agents Act, s. 11 — Duty to deposit money in trust account
What to Do
Check your booking confirmation for written terms on cancellation and refunds.
Write to the travel agent formally requesting a refund, quoting Section 11 of the Travel Agents Act.
If no response or refusal within 14 days, lodge a complaint with the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).
Consider filing a claim at the Small Claims Tribunals if the amount is ≤ S$20,000 (or ≤ S$30,000 with consent).
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.