Singpass Singapore: Government Agencies to Accept Digital IC to Access Services in Person
Starting from 1 November, Singaporeans can use the Singpass Singapore app to access or use public services in person. It’s no longer a problem if you forget to bring your NRIC with you.
The digital identity of all Singaporeans will be stored in their Singpass mobile app, serving as the digital identity. Government agencies will accept this form of identification beginning 1 November. When individuals come to apply for or use public services, all they need to do is present their Singpass app.
The Singpass Singapore app can be used for the following services:
- To register as a patient
- Booking appointments in public clinics
- Borrowing books from the public library
- Registering yourself before entering government buildings
- Passport collection
- Booking and picking up the keys for Housing Board flats
However, there will be some exceptions to using the Singpass Singapore app. For example, these exceptions take place when documents that show proof of your physical identity are required by law. This includes checking into hotels, registering for school exams, national service enrolment, and registering for marriage.
The Singapore Government is currently working on changing these laws to make digital ICs used for formal occasions too.
Digital IDs the Way of the Future
The Government is currently in talks with private sector industries about using digital ICs to open bank accounts and signing up for telco plans. With digital ICs like this, photographs and photocopies are no longer needed as proof of identity. Users only have to now scan the QR code to verify their identity.
The Singpass Singapore app will have details of the individual’s most recent photo submitted to the Government. Security features like fingerprint scanners, passcodes, or face ID are also in place for added privacy.
However, digital ICs will not be replacing physical documentation entirely. If an individual loses their plastic IC hard, they must report it to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. They must also apply for a replacement card.
Government agencies are currently working together to raise awareness among the public about digital IDs over the next few months. Singpass currently has 3.3 million app users, so integrating digital IDs into the system is not going to be a problem.