Singapore will scan and record the fingerprints of all travellers aged six and above entering or exiting the country from April 20, including Singaporean citizens, said the Immigration and Checkpoint Authority (ICA) on April 18.

The move aims to beef up security at the border areas amid increasing threat of global terror attacks, according to ICA.

The thumbprint scanning system will first be introduced at sea and land checkpoints. Airport checks will follow.

Travellers to Singapore will need to scan both their thumbprints upon arrival and departure. (Source: ICA)

Singapore citizens and residents who use the enhanced Immigration Automated Clearance System (eIACS) or automated clearance lanes for departure and arrival will not be affected by the regulation.

ICA noted that travellers might experience slightly longer immigration clearance times at the checkpoints due to the regulation.

(Source: VNA)