Right to an Interpreter in Singapore
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
If you do not understand the language used during police questioning or court proceedings, you have the right to an interpreter:
- During police questioning, statements under s22 must be recorded in a language you understand or interpreted for you (CPC s22(2)).
- In court proceedings, if you do not understand English (the working language of Singapore courts), the court must provide interpretation (CPC s281).
- Singapore's four official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil, but interpretation can also be arranged for other languages.
When does it apply?
- You are questioned by police and do not understand the language being used.
- You are appearing in court and do not understand English sufficiently.
- This right applies to all persons, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
What to Do If Police Are Questioning You in a Language You Do Not Understand in Singapore
- Tell the police officer immediately if you do not understand the language being used: "I need an interpreter in [your language]."
- Do not sign any statement that has not been properly read back to you in a language you understand.
- In court, inform the judge or court officer at the earliest opportunity that you need interpretation.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't pretend to understand if you don't — a statement made without proper understanding may still be used against you.
- Don't sign a statement in a language you cannot read — ask for it to be read back or interpreted.
- Don't assume your family member can act as interpreter — the police and courts use trained interpreters for accuracy and impartiality.
Common Questions
Am I entitled to an interpreter during police questioning in Singapore?
Yes. Under s22(2) of the Criminal Procedure Code, statements must be recorded in a language you understand or interpreted for you. In court proceedings, if you do not understand English (the working language of the courts), the court must provide interpretation under s281. This applies regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
What languages does Singapore provide interpretation in?
Singapore's four official languages are English, Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil. Interpretation can also be arranged for other languages on request. Tell the police officer immediately if you do not understand the language being used: 'I need an interpreter in [your language].'
What if I partly understand the police in Singapore — should I still ask for an interpreter?
Yes. Do not pretend to understand if you don't — a statement made without proper understanding may still be used against you. Never sign a statement in a language you cannot read without having it read back or interpreted. Do not rely on a family member — police and courts use trained interpreters for accuracy and impartiality.
When does it apply — right to an interpreter?
You are questioned by police and do not understand the language being used.You are appearing in court and do not understand English sufficiently.This right applies to all persons, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
What should I do if the police are interviewing me in English and I cannot understand them properly in Singapore?
Tell the police officer immediately if you do not understand the language being used: "I need an interpreter in [your language]."Do not sign any statement that has not been properly read back to you in a language you understand.In court, inform the judge or court officer at the earliest opportunity that you need interpretation.
What should you NOT do — right to an interpreter?
Don't pretend to understand if you don't — a statement made without proper understanding may still be used against you.Don't sign a statement in a language you cannot read — ask for it to be read back or interpreted.Don't assume your family member can act as interpreter — the police and courts use trained interpreters for accuracy and impartiality.