Requirement for presentation of physical identity card when checking into local hotels

Question:

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis: To ask the Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what is the reason for requiring Singaporeans to present a physical NRIC card when checking into local hotels; (b) whether the Government can consider removing the need for a physical ID; and (c) if not, why not.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs:

1. All hotel guests, regardless of their nationality, must present a valid identity document when checking in to hotels in Singapore. This ensures that every guest can be properly identified and registered for their stay at the hotel.

2. In the case of Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, the Government has been moving towards full acceptance of digital NRICs for everyday transactions, including hotel check-ins, and plans to make legislative amendments to effect this.