Singaporeans Urged to Plan Ahead for Year-End Travel
Singaporeans applying for a passport should anticipate a processing time of one to two weeks, according to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). This marks a significant improvement compared to earlier this year when processing could take up to six weeks.
Travellers with passports nearing expiration—especially those planning year-end trips—are advised to act promptly. ICA recommends applying as soon as possible to avoid delays, particularly for passports with less than six months’ validity.
Increased Demand for Passport Renewals
Historically, passport applications see a spike from October to December. ICA highlighted that application volume heavily influences processing time. Applicants should also account for extra time to schedule and attend an appointment for passport collection.
To manage the surge, ICA has allocated additional resources, hired more officers, and collaborated with SingPost to enhance passport issuance capacity. These efforts have significantly reduced waiting times.
What to Expect During Application
Once an application is approved, successful applicants will receive a notification via email or a pink card. They can then book a collection appointment at the ICA Building or any of the 29 designated post offices at no extra cost.
For convenience, applicants can track their application status on the ICA website or MyICA Mobile app. To ensure a seamless process, Singaporeans are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and book their appointments early.
If you’re planning a trip soon, avoid last-minute stress and renew your passport today!
