Singapore launches automated immigration channels for all arrivals

Singapore has opened automated immigration clearance for all arriving visitors at Changi Airport.

Singapore opens up automated immigration for all passengers. Image: Unsplash

Automated immigration lanes could previously only be used by Singapore residents and passport holders from 60 nations.

All foreign nationals arriving in Singapore can now use the automated lanes to clear immigration at Changi Airport.

The move is set to improve security and speed up processes for all passengers.

LAUNCHED EARLY MAY

The feature was rolled out in early May, allowing first-time visitors to Singapore to use automated lanes without prior enrolment in the system.

This technology is part of Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) new clearance concept announced in 2019.

The technology aims to provide faster and more secure immigration clearance.

SINGAPORE SCALES UP AUTOMATED IMMIGRATION

More than 160 automated lanes were installed last year. But another 230 lanes are due to be set up this year.

ICA intends to install about 800 of these lanes across all of Singapore’s immigration checkpoints by 2026.

Singapore plans to have this fully in place by the end of this year, according to Straits Times.

IMPROVING IMMIGRATION PROCESSES

Singapore is a busy crossroads with millions of passengers passing through the city-state while travelling north or south, east or west.   

The small island state allows visa-free entry to many nations, hence the need for convenient yet secure immigration processes.

The roll-out of automated immigration gates is another step towards passport-free and contactless immigration clearance at all checkpoints.

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AUTOMATED ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES

Assistant Commissioner Phua Chiew Hua, deputy director at ICA’s operations division, said that arriving Singapore residents and all departing travellers will be able to enjoy contactless immigration clearance at Changi and Seletar airports, as well as Marina Bay Cruise Centre, by the end of the year.

An Indian national using Changi’s automated immigration gates complimented the technology, noting high efficiency.

“Almost no human interaction required. The technology is a godsend, and we look forward to coming again very soon.” He said.

CONTACTLESS IMMIGRATION

The automated system is able to clear travellers by scanning their faces and irises.

Hua said, “This means that they will not need to present their passports. These initiatives will help to reduce immigration clearance time at the passenger halls by about 40 percent.”

He added that officers will be freed up to be trained to take on other roles such as interviewing and profiling.

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