Many of the ex-pats who apply Singapore citizen or apply PR are looking forward to being a Singapore passport holder, which is one of the many privileges of being a Singapore citizen.
The Singapore passport has been making headlines for being ranked second in the world for its visa-free travel capabilities. But there’s more to this power-packed document than meets the eye.
In this article, we uncover the secrets and share with you 6 surprising facts about the Singapore passport that you may not have known. From its impact on your global mobility to the hidden perks that come with it, get ready to be amazed.
#1 Explore the World with Ease: The Singapore Passport Grants Access to 192 Destinations Without a Traditional Visa
The Singapore passport is much more than a simple form of identification, it represents the country’s power and global prestige. As per the Henley Passport Index, the Singapore passport holds the second spot in the world, allowing visa-free access to a total of 192 destinations.
This opens up a world of opportunities for Singaporeans to travel to around 85% of the globe without having to go through the hassle of obtaining a traditional travel visa.
But that’s not all that the Singapore passport has to offer. It also shares the same visa-free privileges as South Korea, providing access to an equal number of destinations. These destinations include countries that offer visas on arrival or via electronic travel authority, making travel even more convenient and effortless for Singaporeans.
The Henley Passport Index, which covers 199 passports and 227 travel destinations, uses data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), making it a reliable source of information on the strength of different passports.
#2 Experience Unmatched Security: The Singapore Passport Boasts Biometric Features
Singapore has been at the forefront of innovation in passport technology, with the implementation of biometric features as early as 2006. This forward-thinking approach has made the Singapore passport one of the most secure and technologically advanced in the world.
The latest design, issued in 2017, showcases an array of cutting-edge security features that make it nearly impossible for fraudsters to forge or imitate a passport.
From the window lock feature that secures the personal details of the passport holder to the surface transformation that changes in appearance based on the angle of light, these security features provide an extra layer of protection to passport holders.
The multiple laser image, diffractive optically variable image device (DOVID), and embossed tactile design, are additional features that enhance the overall security of the passport. These advanced biometric features not only make travel easier and more convenient but also give Singaporeans the peace of mind that their personal information is protected against identity theft.
#3 Learn Timely Reporting: The Consequences of Not Reporting Your Lost Singapore Passport
Our Singapore passport is a valuable document with many security and biometric features, making its loss a serious matter. According to the Passports Act (Chapter 220), it is mandatory to report the loss of your Singapore passport within 14 days of discovering it is missing. Failing to do so could result in legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
Additionally, even if you eventually recover your lost passport, it must still be surrendered to the ICA within 14 days, and using it after reporting it as lost is considered an offense. Therefore, it’s crucial to report the loss of your Singapore passport as soon as possible to protect yourself and your valuable asset.
#4 Costly Consequences: The Price of Losing Your Singapore Passport More Than Once
Losing a Singapore passport is not just a hassle but also a costly one. The first time you lose your passport, you will be required to pay a $50 fee on top of the prevailing passport fee of either $70 or $80, depending on the method of application. However, if you lose your passport a second or subsequent time, the fee increases to $100, bringing the total cost to replace your passport to $170 or $180.
This highlights the importance of being extra cautious when handling and safeguarding your passport to avoid paying hefty fees for replacements.
#5 Convenient Passport Collection: Get Your Singapore Passport Without Stepping Foot in ICA
Gone are the days when collecting your Singapore passport meant a trip to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA). Did you know that you can now pick up your new or replacement passport at a selected post office near you? This convenient option not only saves you time and effort but also offers a 4-day window for collection.
And the best part? Collecting your passport at the post office is completely free of charge, without any additional fees. However, if you do not collect your passport within 4 days from your appointment date, it will be returned to ICA Building and you’ll need to collect it from there.
For those living overseas, have no fear, as you can still coordinate the collection of your replacement passport with the Singapore Overseas Mission. Don’t let the hassle of collecting your passport hold you back. Take advantage of this convenient option when you can!
#6 Discover the Mystery: The Rare Blue Singapore Passport
Singapore once had a blue passport that was in circulation from the mid-1960s to the late-1990s. This blue passport was unique and served as the country’s restricted travel document for citizens traveling to just West Malaysia.
Despite its historical significance, the blue passport was eventually phased out and replaced by the current red passport, which offers advanced security features and easier identification. Nevertheless, the blue passport remains an interesting piece of Singapore’s history.
Bottomline
In conclusion, the Singapore passport is a highly valued document that holds immense power and access to the world. It is packed with several features, some of which may surprise us. From the blue passport that once existed to the multiple security features, the ability to collect it outside of ICA, and the consequences of losing it more than once, there is much to learn and appreciate about our passport.
Understanding these fascinating facts can help us understand the importance and value of our passport, and how it can help us travel with ease and security.