Trinidad and Tobago to Implement e-Passports, Digital Travel Forms

Trinidad and Tobago will soon implement e-passports and digital embarking/disembarking forms, as announced by Finance Minister Colm Imbert during the budget presentation on September 30. The transition from machine-readable passports to e-passports is intended to keep Trinidad and Tobago in line with global standards and provide greater security against forgery.

The use of biometric data, such as fingerprint and face data, aims to make the e-passports significantly harder to forge compared to traditional passports, while also looking to ensure that personal identity verification is more secure and efficient, allowing for faster processing through automated border control gates.

“(This will result in) faster processing at airports via automated border control gates and significantly reduce wait times,” Imbert said. “Converting will streamline travel while providing greater peace of mind regarding security.”

Additionally, the government plans to introduce online disembarking and embarking forms in 2025, replacing the current physical forms. A legal team will be responsible for developing the framework, reviewing global practices, and ensuring data protection and privacy standards are met.

Imbert highlighted the potential benefits for tourism, which is considered crucial for the country’s economic diversification. The government aims to increase visitor arrivals to 500,000 by 2026, supported by targeted marketing and product development initiatives. The country has seen an increase in both air travel and cruise arrivals in recent years, reflecting a post-pandemic recovery.

To further support tourism growth, the Tourism Accommodation Upgrade Project has been extended until 2026, with upgrades to properties enhancing visitor experience. Imbert also noted the success of Carnival 2024, which attracted over 41,000 visitors and contributed $632 million to the economy.

Source: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

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October 1, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith