From what documents you will need to the most efficient way to collect your passport, here's how to make your passport renewal process as simple as possible
This story was first published on May 21, 2021, and updated on June 14, 2021.
Recently, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) announced a new set of rules regarding walk-ins who are collecting their passports.
Under the new rules, only those who have been notified to collect their passports, submit supporting documents or resubmit their photographs are permitted to enter the ICA building as a walk-in. This comes after ICA saw an overwhelming demand for passports since the easing of travel measures. Currently, the minimum wait time for a new passport is six weeks.
However, over the last few weeks, snaking queues were seen at the ICA building with people reporting standing in line for hours as they desperately tried to get their passports as soon as possible. Many were visiting in person to have their applications expedited or to check on their status.
ICA added that over 5,000 passports are currently being issued daily. This is almost three times the number pre-pandemic in 2019.
“To meet the increased demand, more officers have been redeployed to process and produce passports, and they are doing so round the clock,” said ICA.
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Of course, after two years of not being able to travel, many are eager to go on holiday once again or to see family members who live overseas. If you are trying to get your passport renewed soon, here’s everything you need to know.
What documents will I need?
Before you can apply for your new passport you will need a passport-sized, digital, colour photograph taken within the last three months.
Today, you can actually take your passport photo at home if you wish rather than at a photo studio or booth. You just need to remember a couple of things. For one, make sure that you have a white background. You will also need to make sure the photo is evenly lit and has enough headroom.
Ensure that you have a neutral expression when you take the photo and that you are not wearing tinted glasses or coloured contact lenses. Your shoulders are also required to be in the photo. Pro tip: wear a collared shirt to improve the overall appearance of the photo.
You will also need your SingPass login details when you apply for your passport.
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How do I apply for my passport?
If you live in Singapore, you can submit your application conveniently online by simply logging into ICA’s e-service using your Singpass and completing the online application form.
You can do so here.
If you would prefer to do this by post, you can download and print out the Singapore Passport Application Form and drop it into the deposit box outside the ICA building or post it to this address:
Passport Unit
Citizen Services Centre
ICA Building
10 Kallang Road, Level 2
Singapore 208718
If you live outside of Singapore, you can also use the online system to apply for your passport or post your physical form at a Singapore Overseas Mission.