Singapore Changi Airport has embraced a brand-new era in the process of travelling using its passportless immigration clearance system. The technology uses facial and iris biometrics to enable eligible travellers to pass immigration in just 10 seconds without having to queue at every immigration point and present a passport.
There has been a great enhancement in the passengers flow for both boarding and landing of the system. But for those who use the word “passportless“, many travelers know that this does not equate to the absence of travel documents or paperwork before arriving at the destination. This leaves the travelers detained every day in the automated lanes and told to change to manual counters.
Before you head next time to Singapore, here are four usual blunders that can cause you to have an interrupted journey by the Changi Airport.
Misunderstanding the SG Arrival Card Deadline
The “Singapore Arrival Card” (SG Arrival Card or SGAC) is the most common error made. Many visitors think that they can fill out the Declaration when they land or from the immigration line.
Sadly, the system of passportless clearance is dependent on the fact that the information that you need is already in Singapore’s immigration system, prior to you encountering the biometric entry gate.
For travelers, please submit an SG Arrival Card 72 hours in advance of your arrival. Automated clearance can also be unsuccessful in the event of the declaration not being processed successfully, resulting in passengers being directed to manual counters for immigration.
If a traveller wants to experience a quick and friendly journey to the airport, it’s one of the most crucial steps.
Assuming First-Time Visitors Can Skip Passport Checks
A last point of confusion is for first time visitors to Singapore. Previously registered biometric records might work for those coming back to their countries although for newcomers, their facial recognition scan will appear to be sufficient to enter. It can result in confusion and delays at immigration checkpoints.
Those travelling for the first time should still bring their passports with them, and must be ready for further checks if necessary. In the future, passportless issuance may be available, but it will likely require the establishment or confirmation of biometric records by immigration officers before that happens.
It’s still very important to have your passport available during all the entry procedures.
Packing Away Your Passport Too Early
The new biometric clearance has a slightly unusual travel faux pas. Some Singaporean passengers think that, if immigration process is automated, their physical passport is no longer needed when they arrive at the airport.
Automated check-in is so popular that sometimes travelers even place their passports in their checked luggage after completing the automated check-in process.
This can cause a lot of hitches as the airlines still check passports on international flights. Also, an immigration officer at your destination will most likely ask for the actual paper when you arrive.
Your passport should always be kept in your possession until the airport trip is over—even in a passportless airport.
Ignoring Biometric Scanner Requirements
The last is the accuracy of facial and iris recognition. Automated gates require good biometric matches. Items or accessories such as hats can prevent the system from detecting an accurate traveler ID.
Some large hats, masks, sunglasses and colored contact lenses can sometimes cause recognition problems. If frequently encountering scanner failures, users may be advised to take out accessories and try again.
For the fastest immigration clearance, you will want to show a clear and unobstructed image of your face.
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Why Changi’s Passportless System Still Requires Preparation?
The new system of passports is intended to quicken the pace of travel and not to replace the immigration system’s existing requirements.
Valid passports, completed arrival declarations and airline documentation will continue to be required, as will adherence to the rules for entering the countries involved. Once those requirements have been met, the technology just shortened the processing time.
Before you reach the airport, it is crucial to have an understanding of how the system operates to save valuable time at the airport and to avoid extra stress along the way.
FAQs
What is Singapore passportless immigration?
Singapore’s passportless immigration system utilizes facial and iris recognition to confirm travelers at the automated clearance gates instead of having to present the passport a number of times.
Is there a need for a physical passport to still be in use?
Yes. It is still important for travellers to have a physical passport with them for airline checks, immigration and entry into the Country they are travelling to.
When do I need to submit an SG Arrival Card?
All documents for the SG Arrival Card need to be submitted within the 72 hours’ window before arrival into Singapore.
