86,000 car travellers used new QR Code immigration clearance at Tuas, Woodlands checkpoints over two days since launch: ICA

SINGAPORE — About 86,000 travellers in cars passing through Singapore's Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints have used the recently implemented QR code system for immigration clearance as of 20 March, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said on Thursday (21 March).

The initiative, which began on 19 March, aims to allow car travellers to clear the immigration process quickly, eliminating the need to present passports.

According to the ICA's media release, these 86,000 users constitute about 46 per cent of the total car travellers who crossed both checkpoints during the two days.

ICA reported that most car travellers, particularly those in groups, have found the QR code clearance process "to be more convenient, faster and fuss-free".

Reminders for car travellers using QR code clearance

With the upcoming Good Friday long weekend on 29 March and the Qing Ming festival on 4 April, heavy traffic is anticipated at both checkpoints.

Therefore, ICA is encouraging car travellers to utilise the QR codes for clearance. Travellers who do so are also reminded to still carry their passports, as it may be required for verification in some cases.

Travellers must also present their passports for identity verification at Malaysia's checkpoints when entering and leaving Johor Bahru.

ICA said the QR code system allows for multiple trips using the same group QR code if the same number of travellers with the same passport details travel together. Travellers can also update the QR code via the MyICA mobile application in case of any changes in passport details.

According to ICA, they can create multiple group QR codes for different groups of people and categorise them under various names such as "Family" or "Friends" in the application.

However, ICA added that QR codes will be rejected if they do not match the details and number of travellers in the vehicle. In such cases, travellers will need to present their passports for clearance instead.

First-time visitors, including foreigners and those re-entering Singapore using a different passport from their last visit, must present their passports for immigration clearance. However, they can use QR codes for subsequent trips.

Foreign visitors using the QR code or passport for immigration clearance at the land checkpoints are required to submit their Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) within three days (including the day of arrival), before arriving in Singapore. Visitors can do so via the MyICA mobile application or ICA's website.

The authority said it will progressively extend the QR code clearance to the other modes of transport going through the land checkpoints.

Faster travel experience

Previously, ICA said that Singapore's land checkpoints are among the busiest land crossings in the world.

About 400,000 travellers use both Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints daily, and this number increases to 440,000 during school and public holidays.

It also said that the QR code initiative allows travellers to enjoy a faster and more convenient experience, with estimated time savings ranging from around 20 seconds for cars with four travellers to approximately one minute for cars with 10 travellers.

Adopting QR codes for clearance could potentially reduce overall waiting times by more than 30 per cent if most car travellers utilise the system, ICA said.

Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.