Thumbprint screening at checkpoints starting 20 April: ICA

Photo: ICA

From 20 April 2016, visitors to Singapore will have their thumbprints captured when they arrive at checkpoints, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said on Monday (18 April).

The manual immigration clearance process may take slightly longer, the ICA said.

The new BioScreen system, which underwent a successful trial at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal last year, will be introduced progressively at Singapore’s land and sea checkpoints, followed by the air checkpoints at a later date.

Under the new security system, visitors to Singapore aged six and above using the manned counters at the checkpoints will be required to scan both their thumbprints upon both arrival and departure. It is compulsory for foreign visitors.

The ICA said that in the initial phase at the Woodlands and Tuas land checkpoints, the BioScreen system will be implemented at the manned counters within the passenger halls.

BioScreen clearance for those travelling by motorcycles, cars and lorries will be implemented at a later date, the ICA said.

While the move will not affect Singapore citizens and residents who use the enhanced Immigration Automated Clearance System (eIACS) or automated clearance lanes, those who use the manned counters will be required to provide their thumbprints.

The ICA also said it would monitor the implementation of the system closely, and fine-tune and adjust plans where necessary. ICA officers will also assist and advise travellers accordingly.

Infographic: ICA