Simplifying immigration control: Singapore introduces pioneering passport-free entry system

Singapore has launched a new passportless entry system that uses facial and iris biometrics to speed up immigration clearance.

The new passportless entry program is planned to be available at all terminals at Changi, Seletar and even Marina Bay Cruise Center airports by December 2024.

This system significantly reduces check-in time and improves the travel experience for millions of passengers. However, foreign nationals traveling to Singapore for the first time, as well as those traveling with another travel document not previously registered with the migration office, are still required to present their passports upon arrival. On departure and subsequent trips, these passengers will already be able to clear immigration without showing their passports. The program is designed for a phased implementation, with an initial focus on passengers from certain countries and e-visa holders.

Depending on the point of entry into Singapore, 2 options for passport-free immigration control are planned:

• Passport-free clearance at air and sea checkpoints: Singapore residents and foreign travelers are cleared through immigration control using simple biometrics without the need to present a passport. Traveler data is provided in advance by air and sea operators based on pre-filled declarations.
• QR code control at land checkpoints: At land checkpoints, traveler information is not available in advance, so the control will be done by QR code as a means of identification instead of a passport to make border control more convenient for both individuals and groups. The group QR codes can be saved and used again for future trips, if the group of travelers remains the same.

The new program will thus help reduce waiting times at immigration control by 40% and is part of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore's (ICA) strategy to enhance security and digitalize border control to better serve travelers.

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