QR code instead of passport: Singapore introduces hassle-free border crossing for tourists

Tourists who want to enter Singapore through its two land checkpoints can now do the same with a QR code instead of passport. Those arriving or departing the country via the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints of Singapore can do the same from March 19. They can generate the code before arriving in the country. Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority said that the code can be used for all people in a vehicle.

This is an effort to reduce the waiting time of travellers, which often extends to many hours, especially in the busy seasons. The authorities hope the new system will reduce the waiting time by around 30%. The country will also soon extend the system to its other checkpoints with Malaysia, which is one of the busiest border crossings in the world. The new system is in addition to the new technologies deployed by the country at its Changi airport, where they are gradually trying to replace manual counters by automated lanes.