Singapore has introduced a passport-less immigration clearance system at Changi Airport, allowing travelers to pass through immigration using only their facial and iris biometrics. This initiative, which began trials on August 5, 2024, is part of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) broader plan to enhance border security and improve traveler experiences through digitalization.
Key Features of the System
- Token-less Clearance: Singapore residents can clear immigration at air and sea checkpoints without presenting their passports for both arrivals and departures. Foreign travelers will also benefit from this system during departures.
- QR Code Clearance: For land checkpoints, travelers will utilize a QR code as an identification method instead of a passport. This system was previously implemented for car travelers and is being expanded to include motorcyclists by August 2024.
Benefits
The implementation of these systems is expected to reduce the time taken for immigration clearance by approximately 40%. The ICA has noted that this biometric integration allows for efficient identity verification by cross-referencing data from advance manifests submitted by airlines and ship operators.
Additional Information
Despite the convenience of passport-less travel, travelers are reminded that they must still carry their passports for international travel and may occasionally need to present them for verification at Singapore’s checkpoints. Children under six years old are not eligible for the automated lanes due to developmental considerations regarding their biometrics.This initiative marks a significant step in Singapore’s efforts to modernize its border control processes, making it one of the first countries globally to implement such extensive token-less clearance systems.
