ICA system update: Immigration clearance at all checkpoints has resumed normalcy

At 3.58pm SGT, ICA has confirmed that immigration clearance at all checkpoints has resumed normalcy. The authority is presently investigating to establish the root cause of the system issue. 

[for the most recent update on this developing story, please refer to the top of this page]

In an update by ICA made at 3.44pm, the authority has confirmed that immigration clearance at all checkpoints has resumed normalcy — except for arrival automated motorcycle lanes at Tuas Checkpoint. 

As of now, ICA is investigating to establish the root cause of the system issue.

The statement adds: "ICA regrets the inconvenience caused to travellers who have taken a longer time to clear immigration."  

As of 12.03pm SGT on 31 March (Friday), Singapore's Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has issued an advisory for travellers to postpone all non-essential travel, where applicable. This comes as selected passenger clearance checkpoints, such as Changi Airport, are "experiencing system slowness".

"Clearance is still ongoing. Delays are expected and travellers are advised to postpone all non-essential travel, where applicable," the authority shared in the first update. "ICA regrets the inconvenience caused to travellers and seek their understanding and patience. Refer to ICA's Facebook page for more official updates."

In the second important update, released at 2.03pm, ICA shared that all automated departure lanes across all terminals at Changi Airport have since been affected. As such, travellers are being redirected to the manual lanes for immigration clearance.

To help manage the situation, and to ensure law and order, ICA has recalled off-duty officers to provide additional support. The authority reminded: "Travellers who are currently at our checkpoints are advised to cooperate with officers on-site. Travellers are urged to factor in additional time for immigration clearance." 

In addition to the update on Changi Airport, it was clarified that selected automated lanes at Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints are also affected. However, the coastal checkpoints have not seen any disruption to immigration clearance.

ICA concluded the statement by seeking travellers' patience and understanding while the situation is resolved.

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