Singapore, Mar. 18:
In an effort to streamline border crossings and minimise waiting times, Singapore is rolling out a novel system that will facilitate drivers to enter the country hassle-free through two land checkpoints. They can now get to use a QR code instead of traditional passports to enter the country.
The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore has announced that, commencing March 19, travellers arriving or departing via the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints can generate a single QR code prior to their arrival, simplifying the clearance process for all occupants in the vehicle.
According to the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore, this means that instead of physically presenting their passports to the ICA officer at the car counter, travellers will only need to scan a single QR code, which they can generate beforehand, which will give a pass to all passengers in the vehicle.
The adoption of QR codes is anticipated to significantly reduce overall wait times, potentially getting rid of congestion by around 30%, particularly during peak periods when there is a surge of workers crossing the border from Malaysia. This initiative reflects Singapore’s dedication to make use of technological advancements to enhance efficiency and adapt to evolving travel patterns.
Furthermore, the passport-free clearance system will not be confined to the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, but will also be extended to other land checkpoints with Malaysia. By leveraging technology, Singapore aims to make border crossings smoother and more user-friendly for travellers.
Singapore has been actively introducing new technologies at Changi Airport, which is also renowned for its operational efficiency and futuristic infrastructure. To further streamline travel, residents and visitors departing from the island will gradually gain the ability to clear checkpoints without resorting to traditional passports.
Earlier, the Singaporean Government had unveiled plans to replace manual counters at passenger halls with approximately 800 automated lanes, employing a new contactless automated border control system. The implementation of this system commenced in the first quarter of 2024, following successful trials at Changi Airport’s Terminal 4 in 2019. In January alone, 5.43 million individuals passed through Singapore’s primary airport.
This announcement not only represents a significant stride towards modernising border control, but also lays the groundwork for forthcoming endeavours such as the Rapid Transit Link connecting Singapore and Johor Bahru in Malaysia. Expected to become operational by the end of 2026, this transit project will have the capacity to accommodate a peak capacity of up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction, thereby improving connectivity between the two nations.
