Singapore – Immigration application process document Things like passports will also be streamlined with the introduction of new AI tools.
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) tool Automatically categorize and extract critical data from passports and other documents, eliminating the need for labor-intensive manual checks.
A multimodal AI tool called Matrix will be introduced in the near future.
Announcing this on May 8, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs K. Shanmugam said the tool will eliminate the need for labor-intensive manual checks.
“The result? Faster validation, fewer errors, and a better experience for everyone,” he added.
This tool is used to The ICA, as part of the Integrated Processing System, was launched in June 2024 as a one-stop online portal for citizenship, permanent residence, and long-term visit pass services.
Applications for NRIC, re-entry permits, APEC business travel cards, passports and short-term stay passes will also be expanded.
Speaking at the launch of the ICA Workplan Seminar held at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Mr Shanmugam said the country’s border security will continue to leverage the strengths of artificial intelligence and digital technologies to streamline processes.
He noted that authorities have already digitized the application process and are using advanced biometric systems to detect identity fraud.
ICA’s transformation continues with new initiatives, including the use of AI as part of an integrated processing system, and the use of algorithms and machine learning models to detect complex patterns and risk profile each individual seeking entry to Singapore.
“These targeted measures will be expanded. High-risk vehicles will be targeted from July this year, and high-risk cargo from June next year.” Mr. Shanmugam added.
K. Shanmugam, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister of Home Affairs, speaks at the ICA’s 2026 Work Plan Seminar on May 8.
Photo: Kevin Lim
ICA also plans to extend automatic screening on arrival at land checkpoints to vehicles and cargo, with a system that will enable 24/7 automated screening lanes for drivers and passengers.
“What does a driver need to do? They need to get into their lane, scan a QR code and present their facial biometrics to complete the process. There’s no contact, there’s no need to get out of the car and show your passport, and there’s no need for an immigration officer to be at the counter.”
“This will be implemented at Tuas (checkpoints) early next year,” Shanmugam added.
In the second half of 2026, the ICA also plans to begin self-service trials of a system that uses an AI-powered fingerprint quality checker to register the biometrics of new citizens, spokespeople, and long-term entry permit holders.
“This technology needs to be tested to make sure it works well. And if it works well, citizens may no longer have to wait for an ICA official to register their biometrics,” Shanmugam said.
ICA is partnering with the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX) to develop multimodal AI-driven tools for integrated processing systems.
Named Matrix, the tool utilizes a visual language model to analyze and understand documents, regardless of their format or layout.
Going a step further, ICA will also introduce an AI anomaly detection initiative to check submitted documents for deficiencies. This allows officials to discover documents that may have been tampered with.
These documents may include educational certificates and marriage certificates.
ICA said New Clearance Concept (NCC)In 2025, nearly 127 million travelers will pass through Singapore immigration without being asked to show their passports, a measure that will be extended to all vehicles at land-based checkpoints.
of the highest number of travelers Entry into and exit from Singapore is usually via land checkpoints.
The agency said it will gradually introduce the Automated Passenger Screening System (APCS), which expands automated immigration screening not only to drivers but also to multiple travelers.
“Drivers and passengers traveling by car, motorcycle or cargo vehicle will be able to complete automated self-immigration screening without having to exit their vehicle,” the ICA added.
A dummy demonstrates the use of ICA’s automated passenger processing system at the Work Plan Seminar 2026 exhibition held on May 8th.
Photo: Kevin Lim
Mr Shanmugam said Singapore was the first country in the world to install automatic lanes at passenger checkpoints to enable group immigration screening.
“It’s for families. It’s for parents with young children. It’s also useful for travelers who need to get around,” he added.
Their abilities were showcased in an exhibition held within the seminar.
Drivers and passengers who presented a QR code or passport were scanned without having to get out of the car, and their facial details were verified using biometrics.
“These enhancements will enable the continued operation of APCS lanes, allowing ICA to expand its customs clearance capacity more efficiently and provide a more seamless experience for travelers,” ICA said.
Mr Shanmugam said the ICA will continue to encourage ideas and experiments to improve its operations.
“The aim is to free up officers to focus on tasks that require critical judgment, such as conducting assessments, handling complex caseloads and managing automated systems, and hopefully freeing officers from increasingly manual and repetitive tasks.”
