Singapore Discussing Mutual Recognition of COVID-19 Vaccine Certificates With Other Countries

Truly showing Singapore’s love for credentials, you might have another certificate on your hands in the future.

“But what can be more important than my O and A Level certificates in my SingPass which I can whip out anytime to boast about my grades because I am a product of the stressful education system that only teaches me to be book-smart?”

Oh, don’t worry dear reader, this time it applies to the real world.

COVID-19 Vaccine Certification

Singapore is currently discussing the mutual recognition of COVID-19 vaccine certification with interested countries. In a speech broadcasted live on YouTube, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong called it a “necessary step towards resuming global travel.”

Noting that a united effort must be made by all countries to put an end to the pandemic, PM Lee said that the world must strengthen its collective response to bring about a more sustainable and inclusive recovery for all.

Engaging with Foreign Counterparts

According to CNA, Health Minister Gan Kim Yong and his ministry have been engaging foreign counterparts and keeping track of global advancements on the development and recognition of vaccination certificates.

This issue was brought up by MP Lim Wee Kiak (Sembawang GRC) in parliament yesterday (24 Feb). He asked whether the World Health Organisation (WHO) will have access to our vaccination data and how Singapore would verify that the vaccination records of international visitors were legitimate.

He also questioned whether those vaccinated will receive certificates and whether such information will be made available.

Test Certificates

Mr Gan reassured that the Ministry of Health (MOH), in collaboration with Government Technology Agency (GovTech), have already created a system to issue digital COVID-19 test certificates to visitors and travellers. Thus, the same system will be used for digital vaccination certificates.

He mentioned that this will help facilitate the sharing of vaccination information safely and securely with international authorities.

Vaccination Card 

Answering MP Lee Wee Kiak’s second question, Mr Gan also explained that everyone who is vaccinated in Singapore will receive a vaccination card containing our particulars as well as the vaccine brand and date of vaccination. They can view these records on the SingPass or Healthhub app.

Such records would also be digitally stored in our National Immunisation Registry. If needed, the information will be given to other relevant government applications.

“The adoption of digital vaccination certificates locally and globally will improve our ability to ensure that certificates presented by visitors are authentic,” he said.

Maybe the new norm will be showing off your certificates to an immigration officer rather than your parents.

To learn about accessing your vaccination records on the Healthhub app, click here!

Feature Image: focal point/ Shutterstock.com