One of the things that we dread most about travelling is the long queues at immigration. Sometimes, just waiting in line for your turn can take hours, and it can be really tiring especially after a long flight? (and this is even before your vacation has started!)
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Well, Singaporean travellers heading to New Zealand can now say goodbye to immigration queues! Starting today (12 Feb 2019), Singaporeans will be able to use New Zealand's eGate passport control when clearing immigration. The eGates are available at major airports like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown ?
[P.S. Here's what else you should know before visiting New Zealand!]
Do note that you need to be at least 12 years old and hold an ePassport (electronic passport). Most Singaporeans would already have an ePassport. But unfortunately, for those of you who are travelling with young children, you'd still have to join the queue to clear immigration ? Similarly, New Zealand passport holders can also do the same in Singapore after signing up for the Frequent Traveller Programme.
#HHWT Tip: Need help planning your New Zealand trip? Our 10D9N Muslim-friendly road trip itinerary will be perfect for you!
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But New Zealand's not the only country where you can cruise through immigration! Here are 3 other places where you can do the same:
1. Australia
Travellers of any nationality who hold an ePassport can make use of Australia's SmartGates and the service is available at 9 major airports across Australia. But do note that travellers must be at least 16 years old. For those of you travelling with young children, you'd have to head to the immigration counters.
2. Bangkok, Thailand
Not many people know this but Singaporean passport holders can actually use the automated clearance gates at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport. For those arriving in Bangkok through Don Mueang, you'd still have to go through an immigration officer. But there are plans to introduce automated clearance at Don Mueang and other popular destinations like Phuket ?
3. United States
As Singaporean travellers are eligible for the US' Visa Waiver Programme (ESTA), you won't need to fill in a customs declaration form and head straight to the Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosks. You can immediately scan your passport, answer a few questions and you'll be issued a receipt which you can show to an immigration officer.
BONUS: United Kingdom
Heading to London later this year? Then you can expect to use the UK's automated self-service gates starting mid-2019, though no official date has been set yet. Travellers need to be at least 18 years old but those aged 12 to 17 can use the gates if they are accompanied by an adult.
That's a total of 5 countries where you won't need to go through the pain and hassle of immigration queues! Now, go forth and share this article with your fellow travel buddies ?
[P.S. Still undecided where to visit this year? Check out our list of top 10 Muslim-friendly destinations you need to visit in 2019!]