Passport-less immigration clearance arrives at Changi Airport

Walking through departure and arrival immigration at Changi Airport without the need for your passport in hand will be a reality soon. The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) announced on 31 July 2024, that passport-less immigration clearance for travellers will be progressively rolled out at Changi Airport, starting from Terminal 3 for arriving Singapore residents from 5 August 2024 at selected automated lanes. This marks a significant step towards seamless travel, with all terminals transitioning to passport-less immigration clearance by September 2024.

Under ICA's New Clearance Concept, Singapore residents (comprising Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders) will be able to clear immigration at both arrival and departure without their passports, while foreign travellers can clear departure immigration without presenting their passports, when fully implemented. This will be facilitated by facial and iris biometrics, making the immigration process faster and more secure. This automated clearance will also be the norm at Singapore's checkpoints, including Seletar Airport, land and sea checkpoints.

This passport-less immigration clearance announcement follows the successful implementation of automated immigration lanes for all foreign visitors earlier this year. All foreign visitors, regardless of nationality and the passport they hold, can use automated lanes at Changi Airport for arrival immigration clearance since it was rolled out in May 2024. Previously, only Singapore residents and passport holders in 60 jurisdictions were eligible to use the automated lanes at Changi Airport.

While passport-less clearance simplifies the departure immigration process in Changi Airport, it doesn't mean that you can ditch your passport. You will still need them for check-in and baggage drop at Changi Airport, as well as immigration procedures at your destination. ICA may also occasionally require travellers to produce their passport for verification, so it's advisable to keep your passport and other essential travel documents readily accessible.

With time saved at passport-less automated immigration lanes in Changi Airport, you will have more time to explore the best of Changi Airport. From the latest restaurants in Changi Airport and Jewel to shops and boutiques offering some of the most unique experiences, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained.

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