(Singapore, Feb 17, 2023) Singapore is looking to install 61 more automated lanes at its border checkpoints this year, the ICA has announced as quoted by CNA.
ICA said in its 2022 statistics report that the additional lanes will expand “clearance capacity” for travelers.
The full resumption of international travel in 2022 led to a significant increase in traveler volume. It cleared nearly 105 million travelers in 2022, a spike of over 1,600% from that of 2021, the report says.
“During the year-end school holidays in December, traveler volume peaked, almost returning to pre-COVID-19 levels at land checkpoints,” said ICA as quoted by CNA.
ICA was facing an “unprecedented” surge in passport applications last year, on the back of Singaporeans putting off renewing their expired passports during the pandemic’s two years of travel restrictions.
More than 1.25 million passports were issued in 2022, in comparison with 300,000 in 2021.
To deal with the surge then, the agency reportedly deployed officers from other work units to process passport applications 24/7.
Beginning from February 13, all non-fully vaccinated travelers entering Singapore will no longer be required to show proof of a negative Pre-Departure Test.
