There’s no shortage of ways to get from Singapore to JB – you can hop on the KTM shuttle, take a bus, or drive up for a supper run. And with Malaysia’s e-gate system already speeding things up, the journey has only gotten smoother.
But here’s the latest lobang for regular JB-goers: you can now use a QR code to breeze through immigration at Woodlands and Tuas Checkpoints. No need to fumble with your passport at automated or special assistance lanes, just scan and go. Here’s how it works, and everything you need to know:
As long as you’re crossing the border by car, motorcycle, lorry, or bus, you can use the QR code generated from the MyICA mobile app instead of handing over your passport. This service is available to Singapore citizens, PRs, long-term pass holders, and even foreign visitors.
That said, there are a few exceptions. You won’t be able to use the QR code if:
For these instances, you’ll still need to clear immigration the old-school way – with your physical passport. But don’t worry, once you’re in the system, you can use the QR code on your next trip.
And if you’re using automated lanes, just make sure your biometric info is already enrolled with ICA or MOM. The latter is for work pass holders and dependants. You can double-check that on the ICA website.
Short answer: Yes, don’t leave home without it.
Even though you can now scan a QR code to clear immigration at Singapore land checkpoints, you’ll still need your passport when entering Malaysia. ICA may request to see your passport for verification, and more importantly, you’ll need it at the Malaysian checkpoint for identity checks.
Remember, your passport is still the most important travel document when heading overseas – QR code or not. Whether you’re buying a SIM card, checking into a hotel, or dealing with any unexpected situations abroad, it’s your go-to proof of identity. So, scan the QR code if you can, but you should always keep your passport close.
Using a QR code to cross the border is easier than you think. First things first, you’ll have to generate an individual or group QR code using the MyICA mobile app. This can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Then, set up your personal profile to generate a My QR code – this can be done by retrieving your details via Singpass, scanning your passport, or keying them in manually.
The next step is to generate either an individual or group QR code. On the app’s homepage, tap on “QR Code at Land Checkpoints” and you’ll be taken to a page where you can choose between creating a personal or group code.
For a personal code, just tap “Create a personal profile to generate MY QR code” and you’re good to go. The app will also display how long the QR code remains valid.
If you’re travelling with family or friends, you can create a group QR code that can be used by the whole gang. There’ll be a minimum of 2 members and a maximum of 10, and you can travel into Malaysia via car, bus, lorry, or motorcycle.
Image adapted from: ICA
To create a group QR code, you’ll need to add each person’s profile individually – either via Singpass, by scanning their passports, or entering their details manually. You can swipe left on any profile tile to edit or delete it, and access all your QR codes anytime by tapping “QR Code Homepage” in the MyICA mobile app.
Group QR codes can be reused for future trips, as long as the traveller details remain the same. You can also save multiple QR codes under different names for different travel groups. Just make sure the details and number of travellers match. If not, the QR code will be rejected and you’ll have to clear immigration with your passport instead.
Pro tip: present the code directly through the MyICA mobile app for the smoothest experience – printed copies or screenshots may not always be accepted.
We don’t know about you, but ever since Singapore launched passport-less clearance at Changi Airport, we’ve been feeling like invincible travellers. And now that we can do the same with a QR code to cross the Johor-Singapore Causeway, it’s a lot faster to “chop passport” so we can go shop and makan.
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