Collaboration between HTX and ICA makes life even easier for travellers
Changi Airport’s automated immigration clearance lanes (Photo: HTX)
Singapore’s already impressive immigration clearance process has gotten even more convenient thanks to token-less clearance, which was made possible through HTX’s collaboration with the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
As of 5 August 2024, travellers using selected automated lanes at Changi Airport Terminal 3 no longer need to whip out their passports – immigration clearance will be done simply using facial and iris biometrics.
This innovation reduces the time taken to clear immigration by 40%.
On our part, we conducted a technical feasibility study as well as served as technical consultants for the assessment of suitable biometric technologies that could be used to implement the passport-less concept.
HTX also provided project management for the development and implementation of the solution, and helped with the development of the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) of the new clearance process.
From 2019 to 2020, we conducted trials on the new technology at Changi Airport Terminal 4.
Jacqueline Chan, Head, Clearance Lanes, at HTX’s Immigration & Checkpoints Programme Management Centre (ICPMC), shared: “HTX, as the force multiplier for the Home Team, continues to secure our borders with the relentless innovation of our dedicated staff. By empowering travel with technology where identity is verified in the blink of an eye, we are pioneering a future of seamless journeys and secure borders.”
ICA will extend token-less biometric immigration clearance to all terminals in Changi Airport by September 2024 and to Marina Bay Cruise Centre by December 2024.
Under ICA’s New Clearance Concept (NCC), all Singapore residents and eligible foreign travellers will enjoy passport-less immigration clearance. This means that they will get to enjoy immigration clearance without having to present their passports.
That being said, you must still have your passport on you when you travel, so don’t forget it!