MyNIISe App Set to Replace Passports for Cross-Border Travel

Singaporeans crossing into Johor Bahru may soon skip passport stamping and use QR codes instead, as Malaysia begins a trial run of its new National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) on Sept 22. 

According to Straits Times, the trial will run until Feb 28, 2026, and covers both land checkpoints – Johor Bahru city and the Second Link. Travellers will use the new MyNIISe app, which is open to Malaysians and visitors from 63 countries and territories, including Singapore.

The app is designed to ease congestion at the border, which sees more than 300,000 daily crossings. Unlike the current MyBorderPass system where each traveller must scan individually, MyNIISe allows groups to clear immigration together with a single QR code.

Authorities say the app will also support the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System Link, which will feature a single-point immigration clearance. Passengers will only need to clear both countries’ checks at the point of departure.

For now, travellers should still carry passports or valid travel documents. Johor state officials say the system has been in internal testing since Aug, and the trial will gradually expand across more booths. At launch, 27 counters in Johor Bahru and 24 at the Second Link will be equipped for MyNIISe use, covering cars, motorcycles and pedestrians.

The app will also be introduced in stages at five airports: Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2, Penang, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu.

Malaysia’s Home Ministry is encouraging travellers to switch to MyNIISe during the trial. At the end of the trial, MyNIISe will replace existing QR code systems as part of a nationwide upgrade to immigration security and efficiency.

The NIISe project, first launched in 2021, aims to integrate AI and facial recognition to speed up clearance and strengthen border control. It has faced delays and contract changes but is now being rolled out earlier than its original March 2026 schedule.

Starting Jan 1, 2026, travellers from approved countries and those on long-term passes are expected to use QR codes for immigration clearance across Malaysia.