With the year-end school holidays fast approaching, more than 120,000 Singaporeans are expected to make their passport applications during the October to December period.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said it expects a surge of 20 to 30 per cent in average applicants, and this will result in long waiting times. To beat the queue, it advises Singaporeans to apply for their passports early.

"Most countries require the traveller's passport to be valid for at least six months from the date of expiry, before allowing the person to enter," said ICA on Thursday.

"We would like to urge Singapore Citizens to apply for their passports early, well in advance of the November and December holidays, if their passports are coming to within six months of expiry."

ICA suggests that citizens make use of the Application for Passport Online Electronic System (APPLES) which allows payment and application for passports at anytime.

APPLES can be accessed through ICA's website at www.ica.gov.sg, and the eCitizen portal at www.ecitizen.gov.sg.

Alternatively, passport applications can be done by post or through deposit boxes placed inside and outside the ICA building.

Citizens who use the online, post or deposit box methods will enjoy a S$10 rebate off the usual S$80 charges levied for counter applications.

Moreover, those who submit applications through APPLES or post will only need to make one trip to the ICA building.

ICA also advises citizens not to collect their passports during the peak hours, when waiting times can be significantly longer.

"The Passports Unit is generally at its busiest on Saturdays. There is also a larger crowd on Mondays, Fridays, during school holidays, and on the days before and after public holidays. The peak hours are from 11.30am to 3pm," said ICA.

NSmen who hold passports with restricted validity are advised to avoid going to the ICA Building for passport extensions.

"NSmen from the Singapore Armed Forces, Singapore Police Force and Singapore Civil Defence Force can extend their passports at the Central Manpower Base at Depot Road, Police Cantonment Complex and SCDF HQ Complex respectively."

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ICA Address
Immigration & Checkpoints Authority
ICA Building
10 Kallang Road
(Next to Lavender MRT station)
Singapore 208718

Operating Hours
Weekdays 8.00 am to 5.00 pm
Saturdays 8.00 am to 1.00 pm
Closed on Sundays & Public Holidays