Automated border clearance to be available to Chinese travelers

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Singapore will extend its automated border clearance service to nationals of the People’s Republic of China.

What does the change mean? Chinese nationals who have visited Singapore at least three times in the previous year may enroll in the enhanced Immigration Automated Clearance System (eIACS).

• Implementation time frame: Nov. 16.
• Visas/permits affected: Multiple-journey visas.
• Who is affected: Nationals of the People’s Republic of China ages six and older who hold a multiple-journey visa valid for five years or longer and who have visited Singapore at least three times in the last 12 months.
• Business impact: The service provides faster airport clearance for frequent Chinese business visitors and also speeds travel for all travelers by relieving queues.
• Next steps: Applicants may enroll at Changi Airport, Woodlands Checkpoint, Tuas Checkpoint and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority building.

Background: The eIACS system uses digital facial and fingerprint recognition. The government of Singapore estimates that it takes only eight seconds for travelers to clear immigration using the eIACS. The service is voluntary and free of charge.

BAL Analysis: Automated clearance systems speed travel by reducing airport immigration queues and allowing immigration officers to focus on high-risk travelers.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group in Singapore. For additional information, please contact singapore@bal.com.

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