Good News: No More Coins for Collecting Your Passport or ID Card!
Starting October 1st, if you’re in Singapore and need your passport or identity card, you can drop by a SingPost outlet without paying a single penny. Yes, really—no more $6–$12 fees.
Why the Freebie?
The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) has decided to foot the bill, making the whole process “as convenient as grabbing a coffee.” Senior Assistant Commissioner Dominic Chua, head of ICA’s Citizen Services Centre, said they’re pushing this move so citizens can pick up their documents from 27 designated post offices islandwide.
How It Works
- Pick a post office: you can choose one of the 27 spots that’ve been approved for passports and ICs.
- Book in advance: you’ll need to schedule an online appointment. You can do that via the ICA website (the link is on their site, but you won’t need to use any fancy code).
- Pick your timing: once your paperwork is ready, you’ll get a heads‑up about the collection options.
There’s a tiny caveat: if your biometric verification didn’t pass during an ICA transaction, you’ll still have to go to the ICA Building to collect whatever you need. It’s a small exception, but it keeps the process running smoothly.
What’s New for Passports?
In May, the ICA revealed that new Singapore passports will be valid for 10 years for citizens 16 and older, starting from the same day this fee change takes effect (October 1st). That means fewer trips to the passport office and more time for the you to actually travel.
Wrapping It Up
So next time you feel like a travel manager, just remember you can collect your passport or IC for free at a post office—and that’s all you need to do. No more wallet checks, just more passport checks!