[Application for MACS has been suspended]
[Click here for more information]
What's the longest you have queued to clear the Malaysian custom at the causeway connecting Peninsular Malaysia to the small little red dot? My record was four hours plus and it was an unforgettable experience!
Even though my last immigration experience to Malaysia was a breeze, it was a rarity and given how often i visit our good neighbor; i decided to apply for MACS (Malaysia Automated Clearance System) which is now available right here in the heart of Singapore! Location: Orchard Parade Hotel.
Yes, the office (third link pte ltd) processing MACS applications is in a hotel and i couldn't find the lift or the stairs leading to the office block! Turned out it's super near to the main entrance; once you step in, turn to your right and you would come to another glass door which leads to the lift to offices (follow the red arrow in the above picture).
Press the button to the third floor and upon arrival, turn left! There weren't many offices on that level but i know the lack of any clear indication (with the exception of a unit number) can trigger a panic attack for some.
Before we step in, i think it's good to let you what you need to bring to apply for MACS - you need money as it would cost you S$35 per application, your identification card, your passport with at least two years to go before it expires and a recent photo (3.5 cm x 5.0 cm which is slightly larger than a passport sized photo).
No recent photo? Forgot about it? Fret not as the opposite unit (#03-02) offers photo taking service at just S$10 for 6 pieces and you can get the pack of photos in less than 10 minutes!
I was honestly expecting the place to be filled with people but there were less than ten persons! Anyway, please proceed to the registration counter where you would be handed the application form and a queue number.
Pens and glues were placed along a standing counter although you can also choose to download the form from here and fill up the details (for Singaporeans, you may complete Section A and B) at home.
Once your number is called, go to the counter shown on the TV screen and continue the application process which shall include the recording of your fingerprint and payment for the application.
Keep the receipt for collection of your passport in a day or two as it would be kept by the office in order to process the MACS! Like any kiasi Singaporean, i was skeptical when it comes to leaving my passport with others!
Even though i arrived slightly after 2 pm, the office called me the next day to pick up my passport and here i was again at the office in Orchard Parade Hotel at 7 pm (collection is from 7.30 pm to 9.00 pm)! p.s. purposely blurred out the office as i didn't realize camera isn't allowed!
Here's the page on my passport that will allow me automated clearance at Malaysian customs! Now, who wants to follow me to explore the rest of Malaysia; like the road trip i made to Kluang with my sister and friend!
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Location
No 1, Tanglin Road #03-10/11/12,
Orchard Parade Hotel, Singapore 247905
Operating Hours
Mondays to Fridays - 8.30 am to 4.30 pm
(Collection from 7.30 pm to 9.00 pm)
Website
Information on MACS
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