Singapore to Introduce Upgraded e-Arrival Card Featuring 19 Languages and Passport Scanning on August 26
- Editorial Team
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 10 hours ago
SINGAPORE, August 22, 2026 — The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will launch an upgraded e-Arrival Card system from August 26, 2026, introducing expanded language options and a passport scanning feature that automatically fills in traveller details.
Published: August 22, 2026 | By VisasUpdate.com Editorial Team
Key Upgrades at a Glance
Feature | Current | Enhanced (from Aug 26) |
Language Options | 12 languages | 19 languages (+7 new) |
Form Filling | Manual entry | Passport scan autofill |
Availability | ICA website & MyICA Mobile app | Same platforms |
Cost | Free | Free |
New Language Options
The enhanced system will support 19 languages, up from the current 12. The seven newly added languages are:
Indonesian
Dutch
Arabic
Spanish
Russian
Tagalog
Italian
This expansion aims to make the entry process smoother for travellers from a wider range of countries.
New Feature: Passport Scanning & Autofill
A key upgrade is the passport scanning feature, which allows travellers to automatically fill in personal and passport details by scanning their travel document. The ICA stated this will "make the submission process faster and more convenient".
"The enhanced electronic arrival card now offers support for 19 languages and includes a revamped interface for a more seamless and straightforward browsing experience. The new passport scanning autofill feature speeds up the submission process."— Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA)
Important Reminder: It's Free
The ICA has repeatedly reminded travellers that submitting the e-Arrival Card through official channels is completely free. Travellers should be cautious of third-party websites or agencies that charge fees for the same service.
Official Channels | Third-Party Sites |
ICA official website | Unauthorised fee-charging sites |
MyICA Mobile app | Commercial agencies |
*"ICA also reminded travellers that arrival card submission via its official channels is free."
What Is the SG Arrival Card?
The SG Arrival Card (SGAC) is the electronic version of the paper disembarkation/embarkation card that foreign visitors must present for immigration clearance upon arrival in Singapore. It is not a visa but a mandatory pre-arrival declaration.
Who Must Submit?
All travellers entering Singapore must submit the SGAC, except:
Those transiting/transferring without seeking immigration clearance
Singapore citizens, Permanent Residents, and Long-Term Pass holders entering via land checkpoints (Woodlands and Tuas)
When to Submit
The SGAC must be submitted within three days (including the day of arrival) before arrival in Singapore.
Read Also
Quick Reference Summary
Aspect | Details |
Launch Date | August 26, 2026 |
Language Options | 19 (up from 12) |
New Languages Added | Indonesian, Dutch, Arabic, Spanish, Russian, Tagalog, Italian |
Key Feature | Passport scan autofill |
Cost | Free (via official channels) |
Submission Window | Within 3 days of arrival |
Official Platforms | ICA website & MyICA Mobile app |
Official Resources
Resource | Link |
ICA Official SGAC Page | |
MyICA Mobile App | Available on App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android) |
SGAC e-Service |
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