Singapore has launched a biometric immigration processing system at Changi Airport, allowing certain travelers to clear immigration without a passport .
Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility: Singapore residents, including citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders, can use the biometric system to clear immigration at air and sea checkpoints .
Foreign Travelers: Foreign travelers can also use the biometric system, but only when leaving Singapore. They must first enroll their biometrics at manual immigration counters .
Exemptions: Children under six years old are not eligible for biometric clearance .
Implementation: The system will be rolled out to all terminals at Changi Airport by September and to Seletar Airport and Marina Bay Cruise Centre by December 2024 .
Benefits: The biometric system is expected to reduce immigration wait times by 40% and is part of Singapore’s efforts to modernize and automate immigration services .
QR Code Clearance: Another form of passport-free clearance, using self-generated QR codes, is available at land checkpoints connecting Singapore and Malaysia .
Other passport-free options: Singapore has also implemented QR code clearance at land checkpoints ². Travelers can use self-generated QR codes to enter and exit Singapore at two land checkpoints that connect Singapore and Malaysia ¹.
