Facial recognition is now available for motorcyclists and pillion riders at all 80 automated arrival and departure lanes at Tuas Checkpoint from 18 September 2026, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority said.
The system is part of ICA’s New Clearance Concept. Facial images replace fingerprints as the primary biometric for eligible riders at those lanes. Singapore residents, long-term pass holders and foreign visitors who have previously entered Singapore can use it. First-time foreign visitors, and travellers re-entering on a different passport, still clear manually.
How clearance works
Scan a passport or a MyICA QR code at the kiosk. When the entry barrier rises, ride into the bay, insert the AutoPass or CashCard, then look at the facial camera. Lift the visor; full-face helmets must come off. Remove sunglasses and face masks. If facial verification fails, the lane prompts for fingerprints. A green light on the camera means the exit barrier will open.
Woodlands came first
ICA began the facial rollout at 18 automated motorcycle lanes in Woodlands Checkpoint’s Arrival Zone on 31 March 2026, after trials that drew more than 150,000 riders, and has been extending it across Woodlands’ automated motorcycle lanes. At Woodlands, ICA has put motorcycle clearance at about 20 seconds, down from about 30. Travellers must still carry their passport; ICA may ask to see it.
