IMPACT – LOW

What is the change? Australia is expanding its automatic border processing program to Singaporean nationals.

What does the change mean? Singaporean ePassport holders can now receive faster processing at Australian airports.

  • Implementation timeframe: Immediate.
  • Visas/permits affected: All visas.
  • Who is affected:Singaporean citizens aged 16 or older and holding an ePassport.
  • Impact on processing times: Self-processing through SmartGate reduces wait times at passport controls.

Background: After a trial period that began in February, Australia has announced that it will make SmartGate available to Singaporean nationals on a permanent basis.

SmartGate is a self-service processing option for eligible travellers who are entering Australia. Rather than having to queue to see a border control officer, SmartGate travellers can self-process through passport controls. Australia recently added SmartGate capability at Brisbane Airport, doubling the number of kiosks and gates for that purpose in the past year.

SmartGate is also available to Australian, New Zealand, U.S. and U.K. citizens on a permanent basis and to Swiss electronic passport holders under trial arrangements.

BAL Analysis: The expansion of the SmartGate service to more nationalities reduces queues for all travellers.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN: 9683856

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