Here are 10 key points about Singapore Introduces Passport-Free Immigration at Changi Airport:
- Passport-Free Immigration at Changi Airport: Singapore has rolled out a passport-less immigration clearance system across all four terminals at Changi Airport.
- Biometric Identification: The system uses facial and iris biometrics to allow travelers to clear immigration without physical travel documents.
- Eligibility: Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders can use the biometric system for both arrivals and departures.
- Children Excluded: Automated clearance is not available for children under six years old, who must use traditional immigration lanes.
- Available to Foreign Visitors: International visitors can use the biometric system when departing Singapore, as their information is recorded upon entry.
- Passports Still Required: Travelers are advised to carry their passports, as they may need them for immigration clearance at their destination countries.
- Time Efficiency: The new system has reduced average clearance time per traveler by 60%, from 25 seconds to 10 seconds.
- Operational Since September 30: The biometric clearance system has been in place since September 30, 2024.
- Reallocation of Staff: With the introduction of automated clearance, immigration officers are now redeployed to focus on tasks like interviewing and profiling for enhanced border security.
- Expansion to Marina Bay Cruise Centre: The biometric technology is set to be implemented at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre in December.
According to officials on Thursday, Singapore has implemented passport-less immigration clearance in all four Changi Airport terminals. Arriving and outgoing Singaporeans, including citizens, permanent residents, and holders of long-term passes, can use their facial and iris biometrics to clear immigration under the scheme.
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Children under the age of six, however, will not be permitted to use the automated immigration clearance lanes.
According to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), which announced that the biometric clearance system has been in place since September 30, all international visitors can also use that clearance technique when they leave the country because their biometric information would have been recorded when they entered.
The ICA emphasized that travelers should continue to bring their passports with them, as they may be needed for immigration clearance in their destination countries. “All foreign visitors will still need to present their passport for immigration clearance upon arrival in Singapore,” the ICA reminded travelers.
According to ICA’s Commander (Airport), Senior Assistant Commissioner Alan Koo, the effort has lowered the average clearance time per traveler by 60%, from 25 seconds to 10 seconds.
“With automated clearance being the norm at our checkpoints, our officers are now redeployed to take on higher-value job roles, such as interviewing and profiling, to safeguard Singapore’s borders,” he stated.
According to a report by Channel News Asia, the Marina Bay Cruise Centre is scheduled to use the technology in December.
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