ICA rolls out new QR code system for border checks

The QR code system can be accessed and modified through the MyICA mobile app.

The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) launched a QR code system on 19 March 2024 for car travellers at Woodlands and Tuas borders, permitting QR codes as an alternative to passports for immigration clearance.

By the following day, around 86,000 car travellers, or 46% of the total cars crossing the borders during the same period, had reportedly utilized the QR codes for immigration clearance.

Car travellers are reminded to carry their passports as a precaution, as it is also needed for crossing Malaysian borders.

ICA also reminded that the group QR code can be used for multiple trips as long as the same number of travellers with the same passport details are travelling together. Any changes may be updated via the MyICA mobile app.

Travellers can also create multiple group QR codes for travels with different groups of people and store them in the application under different names. However, QR codes that do not match the passengers’ details will be rejected and passports will be required for clearance.

First-time foreign visitors and those re-entering Singapore with a different passport must use their physical passport for immigration clearance but can switch to QR code clearance on later visits.

In addition, all foreign visitors are still required to submit their Singapore Arrival Card (SGAC) within three days before arriving in Singapore via MyICA app.

ICA plans to gradually introduce QR code clearance for other transportation modes at land checkpoints.