Travelers can now enjoy a big change at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The new token-less clearance system lets eligible passengers enter Singapore without a physical passport. Instead, this smart system uses advanced biometric technology, including eye and facial recognition, to make travel easier and faster.

Currently, Terminal 3 runs the system, allowing passengers to quickly clear immigration using their biometric data. By December 2024, all terminals at Changi Airport, Seletar Airport, and the Marina Bay Cruise Centre will adopt this program. This expansion clearly shows Singapore’s commitment to improving air travel.

Furthermore, Singapore citizens, permanent residents, and long-term pass holders can benefit from this program. They can easily skip the hassle of carrying physical passports. Additionally, foreign travelers can use biometric clearance when leaving Singapore. However, they must first register their biometrics—iris, face, and fingerprints—at special immigration counters. For now, children under six cannot join this biometric system.

This initiative strongly supports Singapore’s broader New Clearance Concept, which began in May. Officials aim for 95% of travelers to use automated lanes by early 2026. Thus, this change will greatly cut traditional passport checks. Estimates suggest this technology could reduce immigration wait times by up to 40%. In just the first 15 days, the program successfully helped 1.5 million travelers.

Moreover, Changi Airport’s strong performance highlights its role as a global hub. In September 2024, the airport served 5.4 million passengers, reflecting a 10.8% rise from the same month in 2023. This growth clearly shows that the airport is ready for new technology.

In addition, foreign visitors still need to show their passports when they arrive in Singapore. However, they can enjoy passport-free clearance when they leave. Therefore, travelers must carry their passports for checks at their destination to ensure smooth international travel.

With its new biometric clearance system, Singapore sets a fresh standard for airports worldwide, effectively enhancing the travel experience for everyone.

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