Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will be rolling out passport-free immigration clearance for Singapore residents arriving back into the country.
Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will be rolling out passport-free immigration clearance for Singapore residents arriving back into the country.
In a media release posted on July 31, the ICA stated it will start passport-free clearance trials for arriving Singapore residents at selected automated lanes at Changi Airport Terminal 3 from today (August 5). The service will then be progressively implemented at all the airport's terminals by September.
Part of the ICA's push to automated immigration clearance and remove the need for passport checks for those departing Singapore, the “Token-less Clearance” will enable Singapore residents – departing and returning – and foreign visitors departing Singapore to clear through immigration checkpoints using facial and iris scanners. The ICA aims to reduce the time for travelers to clear through immigration by around 40%.
In addition to Changi Airport, the ICA will be introducing the scanners for immigration clearance at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre by December.
Singapore's other method of passport-less immigration clearance using QR codes is primarily used at land checkpoints. The QR code clearance will be expanded to motorcyclists and cargo vehicle drivers and accompanying assistants by August 2024, and bus passengers by December.
While reducing the need for passports during immigration processing at Singapore's checkpoints, the ICA has advised travelers will still need their passports for immigration clearance when overseas and when asked for verification.
“Even as we implement passport-less immigration clearance at Singapore’s checkpoints, travellers will still need their passport for immigration clearance overseas. ICA may also occasionally require travellers to produce their passport for verification,” the ICA said in its statement.
Powered by Froala Editor