Singapore, Mar 13:
In a bid to streamline border crossings and reduce wait times, Singapore is implementing a new system
that allows drivers entering the country through two land checkpoints to use a QR code instead of
traditional passports. The nation’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority announced that, starting from
March 19, travelers arriving or departing through the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints can generate a
single QR code prior to arrival, simplifying the clearance process for everyone in the vehicle.
“This means that instead of handing their passports to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
officer at the car counter, they will only need to have scanned a single QR code which they generate prior
to arriving at the checkpoint, for all the travellers in the car,” Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of
Singapore said in a statement.
The use of QR codes is expected to significantly cut down overall wait times, potentially reducing
congestion by approximately 30%, particularly during busy periods when workers cross the border from
Malaysia. This initiative aligns with Singapore’s commitment to embracing technology to enhance
efficiency and adapt to changing travel dynamics.
