Singapore to expand BioScreen system trial progressively

SINGAPORE: The Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority ( ICA) will progressively expand the trial of the BioScreen system for car travellers arriving and departing via the Tuas and Woodlands checkpoints.

In a statement here, ICA said the BioScreen system captured the thumbprints of visitors arriving at, and departing from the republic’s checkpoints.

Launched in April last year, it said the system had been rolled out to various clearance zones at Singapore land checkpoints such as for train and bus travellers, and lorries and goods vehicles.

Noting that it would carry out BioScreen clearance for car travellers aged six and above, ICA said the driver and passengers would be required

Security at our checkpoints is ICA’s top priority. The BioScreen system is an important measure in this regard, as it enables ICA’s verification of travellers’ identities to be more robust. Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

to step out of their car and have their thumbprints scanned when they seek immigration clearance at the car counters.

The Authority added it would implement BioScreen at car counters progressively, to allow travellers time to become familiar with the new process.

“Security at our checkpoints is ICA’s top priority. The BioScreen system is an important measure in this regard, as it enables ICA’s verification of travellers’ identities to be more robust,” it said.

With the implementation of BioScreen at car counters, ICA said travellers might experience slightly longer immigration clearance time.

“ICA seeks your understanding and co- operation. Our officers will assist and guide travellers on the use of BioScreen. We will monitor closely the expansion of the trial of the BioScreen system for car travellers and adjust our processes accordingly.” — Bernama