The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will introduce a new Foreign Identification Number (FIN) series with the prefix M from 1 January 2022. FINs are unique identification numbers issued by ICA and government agencies to foreigners who are working, studying, or residing in Singapore. Similar to the format of the F and G FIN series, the new M FIN series will start with the prefix M, followed by seven digits and a checksum letter (e.g. M1234567B).

Background

2.          ICA administers immigration and registration services, such as issuing passports and identity cards to Singapore Citizens, and immigration passes and permits to foreigners. Each individual working, studying, or residing in Singapore is issued with a unique identification number for identification and registration purposes.

3.          Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents are currently issued with identification numbers with the prefix S or T, while foreigners on long-term immigration or work passes are currently issued FINs with the prefix F or G. The F series was used for FINs issued before year 2000, while the G series was rolled out at the start of year 2000. The G Series will continue to be issued until 31 December 2021.

FINs Cannot Be Recycled

4.          Like the identification numbers for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, FINs are unique to each individual and cannot be re-assigned to other foreigners after the pass holders have left Singapore permanently or have passed on. This means that the available FINs in each series will deplete over time.

5.          Hence, there is a need to introduce a new FIN series to allow ICA and relevant government agencies to carry out their duties to register and identify foreigners who are on long-term stay in Singapore. Foreigners who are currently assigned with the F and G FIN series will not be affected by the introduction of the M FIN series.

6.          All government agencies will make the necessary enhancements to their systems to accept the new series by 1 January 2022. Private entities that require FIN from their customers or employees as part of their business processes are advised to make the necessary changes to their systems early, to minimise disruption to their businesses.

IMMIGRATION & CHECKPOINTS AUTHORITY
12 July 2021