Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority said in a statement that it will extend the enhanced immigration automated clearance system service - known as eIACS - to eligible holders of Chinese passports from Nov 16.

The authority said holders of Chinese passports aged 6 and above who are holding a valid five-year (or longer) Multiple Journey Visas issued by Singapore and have visited the nation at least three times in the preceding 12 months, are eligible to enroll for the automated service free of charge.

The authority said it will provide greater travel convenience for Chinese visitors and facilitate trade, business and tourism links between Singapore and China.

Earlier this year, the authority said eligible Chinese nationals who travel to Singapore from June can be granted multiple journey visas valid for a maximum of 10 years.

The same facility will also be extended to spouses and children under the age of 21, if the main applicant is eligible. When issuing the new policy, the authority added that eligible applicants will also be able to use the automated immigration clearance at Singapore's checkpoints.