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Contactless immigration clearance when entering Singapore via the new Woodlands Checkpoint.

Contactless facial and iris biometric scanner trials are underway starting 2022 June.

Contactless immigration clearance when entering Singapore via the new Woodlands Checkpoint.

Photo Courtesy of The Straits Times

 

Travellers driving to Singapore via the Woodlands Checkpoint can start using a new automated immigration clearance system.


The previous APICS in December 2017 relied on fingerprint scanners while this new version will improve contactless recognition for greater convenience and efficiency with trial expected to last till October this year.


Contactless immigration clearance when entering Singapore via the new Woodlands Checkpoint.

Photo Courtesy of The Straits Times


When the vehicle enters the clearance booth:

  1. The sensors detect the vehicle type and adjust the self-help kiosk to the appropriate height.

  2. At the kiosk, the driver scans the passports of everyone in the vehicle.

  3. They are then prompted to look at the cameras positioned around the vehicle.

  4. The cameras scan all of the travellers simultaneously to identify them through facial and iris biometrics.

  5. Once their identities have been authenticated, the barrier lifts, allowing them to enter Singapore.


Contactless immigration clearance when entering Singapore via the new Woodlands Checkpoint.

Photo Courtesy of Mothership


Currently, the trial is being conducted at the checkpoint on weekday nights. Travellers are chosen based on several criteria due to the system’s limitations. One of the criteria includes having a maximum of four people in the car who must be above six years of age.



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References: The Straits Times (website) Mothership (website)

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