Passport-less clearance begins at Singapore’s Changi Airport

The advancement of technology in Singapore is something we are all familiar with, but now Singapore has introduced a system that will help millions of passengers arriving at Changi Airport. The passport-less clearance, which was introduced at all four terminals of Changi Airport on September 30, 2024, is reducing the travel headache for millions.
Under this system, passengers are no longer required to show their passports to any authority at the airport, as biometrics will handle the process for Singapore residents. On departure, this system will work for all passengers, whether they are foreigners or residents of Singapore.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority of Singapore on Thursday, October 24, declared it in an official statement. By October 15, 2024, in a span of 15 days, 1.5 million travellers had cleared immigration without showing a passport to the airport authority, ICA confirms.
The Commander of ICA, Alan Koo, said that this system is benefiting millions and reducing clearance time from a 25-second procedure to only a 10-second biometric process.
Traditionally, clearing immigration involved a 25-second procedure, requiring passengers to present their passports for verification. However, with the introduction of the biometric clearance system, this time has been dramatically reduced to just 10 seconds.
By utilising advanced facial and iris recognition technology, the system allows for a faster experience, making travel more efficient while ensuring security remains a priority.
“With automated clearance being the norm at our checkpoints, our officers are now redeployed to take on higher-value job roles, such as interviewing and profiling, to safeguard Singapore’s borders,” he said.
The system benefits the residents of Singapore, allowing Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders to easily clear immigration without showing their passports and using only facial and iris biometrics.
However, immigrants travelling from abroad must show their passports upon arrival. On departure, the passport-free clearance becomes eligible for immigrants, as the system can scan their faces and irises once they arrive.
Children of any nationality, including Singaporeans, are not included, as the physical features and biometrics of this age group are still developing.
“All foreign visitors will still need to bring their passports and have to present their passport for immigration clearance upon arrival in Singapore,” the ICA reminded travellers.
The agency stressed the importance of travellers carrying their passports, as these documents may still be necessary for immigration checks upon arrival in their destination countries.