Changi Airport launches passport-less immigration

Starting August 5, Changi Airport will introduce passport-less immigration clearance for arriving Singapore residents at selected automated lanes in Terminal 3. This move marks a significant step towards seamless travel as part of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) New Clearance Concept, aiming for a full rollout across all terminals by September 2024.

Using advanced facial and iris biometric technology, Singapore residents including citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders can clear immigration at both arrival and departure without presenting their passports. Foreign travelers will benefit from passport-less clearance only during departure, while automated lanes for arrival have been available to all foreign visitors since May 2024.

This initiative is designed to enhance the efficiency and security of the immigration process, significantly reducing clearance time. ICA estimates that the new system will cut the time required for immigration procedures by 40% at air and sea checkpoints and 30% at land checkpoints.

The passport-less clearance will also extend to Marina Bay Cruise Centre by December 2024, and plans are in place to implement the system at Seletar Airport, Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal and HarbourFront Centre by 2025.

Meanwhile, the QR code system, already in use by over 70% of car travelers and bus drivers at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, will be extended to motorcyclists from August 15, 2024. Cargo vehicle drivers and passengers will start using QR codes by the end of August, with bus passengers following in December.

Despite the shift towards passport-less clearance, travelers are reminded to carry their passports for check-in, baggage drop and immigration procedures at their destination countries. ICA may also occasionally request passports for verification.