Changi Airport's new passport-free entry with biometrics

 

 

 

Singapore's Changi Airport is now offering passport-free clearance through advanced facial and iris recognition technology, streamlining immigration and saving time for millions of travellers. The technology allows travellers to go through immigration faster, whereas foreign arrivals are required to show their passports when entering the country.

Singapore's historic move for passport-free travel

Changi Airport has introduced an innovative, passport-free immigration process using facial and iris biometrics. This advancement makes travel easier and faster, especially for Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders.

What is passport-free clearance?

This system allows eligible travellers to go through immigration without the need for a physical passport. Instead, the airport's biometric system verifies identity using facial and iris recognition.

How it works:

From September 30, 2024, Changi Airport's four terminals are equipped with biometric lanes for eligible passengers. When traveling, they can simply pass through the designated lane where the system will recognize their face and iris patterns. Travel to other countries still requires a valid passport and boarding pass.

Passport-free departure for foreign passengers

Foreign visitors departing Singapore can also use this biometric system after registering their face, iris and fingerprint data upon entry. However, all foreign passengers must still present their passports upon arrival in Singapore.

Eligibility for the biometric system

Singapore residents, including citizens, PR and LTP holders, are eligible for faster passport-free clearance.
Foreign passengers can opt for passport-free departure after registering their biometric details.

Children under the age of six are excluded due to the ongoing development of their biometric features.

Important Requirements for Foreign Travellers

Foreign visitors must show their passports upon arrival in Singapore.

After their biometrics are registered, they can enjoy passport-free clearance upon departure.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) advises all travellers to carry their passports to comply with immigration regulations at their destination.