Starting 2 January 2024, large multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) such as Hyundai Starex, Hyundai Staria, Toyota Vellfire, Toyota Alphard and Maxus may be diverted to the bus zones for arrival and departure immigration clearance at Tuas Checkpoint. This is part of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) ongoing efforts to enhance clearance efficiency at the car lanes and the overall immigration clearance experience for car travellers.

2.          ICA has observed that large MPVs operate more like mini-vans or buses at the land checkpoints. These MPVs have a capacity for up to 12 passengers, but in many instances carry up to 16 passengers. With more travellers in these vehicles, the time taken to clear them is much longer compared to the other cars. There has also been numerous feedback from car travellers about the delay caused by large MPVs with more passengers and that ICA should consider segregating them into different lanes. Diverting such large MPVs to the bus lanes will speed up immigration clearance for both large MPVs and other cars, thus enhancing the overall experience for all travellers. Smaller MPVs can continue to clear immigration through the car lanes.

3.          Passengers in these large MPVs will need to alight with their luggage and proceed to the bus hall for immigration clearance, while the driver clears immigration through the bus lane. For travellers with mobility issues, elderly, pregnant women or young children, ICA officers will facilitate immigration clearance on-board via the bus lanes, similar to bus passengers.

4.          ICA has also considered similar initiatives at Woodlands Checkpoint to help ease the high traffic volume at the car zones. However, it is operationally not feasible due to the differences in operating terrain. Nonetheless, ICA will continue to study our current processes and explore ways to improve travellers’ experience. We seek travellers’ understanding, patience and cooperation with ICA officers at the checkpoints.

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
03 JANUARY 2024