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Ministry of Health

Organ donation

Organ transplantation in Singapore involves HOTA, which mandates organ donation unless opted out, and MTERA, allowing anyone 18+ to pledge organs with next of kin consent if not pledged.

Last updated 15 October 2025

Human organ transplantation is often the only hope for people suffering from organ failure.

Organ donation is one of the greatest gifts that you can ever make. There are 2 ways in which you can help others through a gift of life:

  • Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA)

  • Medical (Therapy, Education and Research) Act (MTERA)

Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA)

All Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, 21 years old and above, who are not mentally disordered are included under the Human Organ Transplant Act (HOTA), unless they have opted out.

HOTA allows for the kidneys, heart, liver and corneas to be recovered in the event of death from any cause, for the purpose of transplantation.

For more information, please refer to the Human Organ Transplant Act.

How do I opt out of HOTA?

Make your decision known online via the Organ Donor Registry portal.

Do note that HOTA objectors will have a lower priority on organ transplant waiting list should they need a transplant in the future.

How do I opt back into HOTA if I opted out before?

Make your decision known online via the Organ Donor Registry portal.

Do note that you will still be of a lower priority on the organ transplant waiting list for two years from the date your withdrawal of objection was received.

Medical (Therapy, Education and Research) Act (MTERA)

Anyone 18 years old and above, regardless of nationality, can pledge to be an organ, tissue and/or whole body donor for the purposes of transplant, therapy and/or education and research upon death. Some of the organs and tissues that can be donated under MTERA include lungs, trachea, pancreas, heart valves, iliac vessels and skin.

Individuals can also specify the organs and purpose(s) that they would like to donate them for. As an organ pledger, you can save lives of others, and help further the research and discovery of life-saving medical procedures.

If you would like to make an organ donation pledge under MTERA, do let your loved ones know about your decision so that they can find comfort in your commitment to contribute.

How do I opt in to MTERA?

Make your decision known online via the Organ Donor Registry portal.

The next of kin can also give consent for donation under MTERA even if the individual did not make a pledge.

What is the difference between HOTA & MTERA?

Difference between HOTA & MTERA

For more information on organ donation, please visit the Live On initiative.

National Organ Transplant Unit

The National Organ Transplant Unit (NOTU), under the ambit of the Ministry of Health, is established to oversee and facilitate organ donation and transplant matters and activities in Singapore.

Contact the National Organ Transplant Unit at 6321 4390 or email organ.transplant@notu.com.sg for more information.