SINGAPORE – Motorcyclists and their pillion riders heading for Malaysia will be able to use QR codes to clear immigration at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints from Aug 15.

       Bicycle riders using the motorcycle lanes at the two Singapore checkpoints can also use QR code clearance, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) told The Straits Times on Aug 13.

       The move is part of ICA’s initiative to provide travellers with a passportless immigration clearance experience.

       Those travelling to Malaysia in cars have been using QR code clearance since March 19.

       From Aug 15, motorcyclists and their pillion riders can present one group QR code for immigration clearance instead of scanning two passports, ICA said in a statement on Aug 13.

       This is similar for those travelling in cars, where a single QR code can be generated for up to 10 passengers in the same vehicle for immigration clearance.

       ICA said its Biometric Identification of Motorbikers (Bikes) system has also been enhanced, with visual cues from light strips installed at immigration counters to show whether a rider’s fingerprint has been successfully captured.

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       “The Bikes system enhancements coupled with the QR code clearance will reduce the immigration clearance time for motorcyclists and pillion riders by about 30 per cent,” said ICA.

       Scanning a QR code instead of using a passport can also help motorcyclists avoid exposing their passports to the rain, ICA added.

       Singapore residents who want to use QR code clearance will need to download the MyICA Mobile app. They can opt to have their details filled in automatically via Singpass to generate a QR code.

       But they must still carry their passports as checkpoint officers may require them to produce their passports for verification.

       They also need to present their passports for immigration clearance at Malaysia’s checkpoint in Johor Bahru, unless they are Malaysian citizens.

       Since the end of July, Malaysian motorcyclists have been able to clear immigration with facial recognition or QR codes using the MyBorderPass app when entering or leaving Johor Bahru at the Sultan Iskandar Building checkpoint via the Causeway.

       ICA reminded travellers to update their QR codes if they have changed their passports.

       From Aug 30, cargo vehicle drivers and accompanying assistants will also be able to use QR code clearance. The initiative will be extended to bus passengers by December.