Patricia CaleonSingapore‘s Changi Airport takes a significant leap into the future of travel by fully implementing passport-less immigration clearance systems across all four of its terminals. Since the launch on 30 Sep 2023, nearly 1.5 million travellers have experienced the convenience and efficiency of this innovative system.
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A smoother journey for travellers
The passport-less immigration clearance initiative dramatically reduced average clearance times and queueing from 25 seconds to a mere 10 seconds. This significant change has not only benefited travellers but has also alleviated the workload on immigration officers, leaving them focused on more important things that need critical thinking or decision-making.
Senior Assistant Commissioner Alan Koo, Commander (Airport) of the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said, “With automated clearance becoming the norm, our officers can now focus on higher-value tasks like interviewing and profiling, ensuring the security of Singapore’s borders.”
A benefit for both travellers and officers
Checkpoint Inspector Md Firdaus Rosli, a 17-year veteran of the ICA, has personally witnessed the positive impact of this new system. He recalls the challenges of manual clearance, with long queues and stressed officers. “The new clearance concept has significantly reduced wait times and eased the pressure on both travellers and officers,” he said.
What’s more, the passport-less immigration clearance system also addresses potential language barriers by incorporating common languages like Bahasa Indonesia and Mandarin for an even smoother process for travellers.
How does the passport-less immigration clearance system work?
Singapore residents, including citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders, can now clear immigration solely through facial and iris biometrics. Foreign visitors can also utilise this for departure, as their biometric details are collected upon arrival. However, it’s important to note that all foreign visitors will still need to present their passports for arrival clearance.
A global trendsetter and industry’s first
The implementation of passport-less immigration clearance at Changi Airport proves Singapore to be a global leader in travel technology. Travellers like Eric Taufan and Andy Bingham have personally praised the system’s speed and efficiency, paving the way for how the future of travel is going to look like.
“It’s really cool actually. I wish other countries, especially in the region, will start adopting the system,” said Taufan.
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As Singapore continues to push the boundaries of innovation and level up in technology, the future of travel looks increasingly seamless and secure. With the upcoming implementation at Marina Bay Cruise Centre in December, the benefits of passport-less immigration clearance are set to extend to even more travellers, making travelling all the more seamless and hassle-free.
All image credit goes to Changi Airport
