Immigration department to phase out ‘E.D’ forms
Finally, Antigua and Barbuda is set to phase out the current paper-based Embarkation/Disembarkation forms that visitors and residents are required to fill out and submit to the Immigration Department upon entry into the country.
This move is aimed at speeding up the clearance process for passengers at the ports of entry, particularly the VC Bird International Airport, which has presented some challenges for authorities in the past.
During a recent ‘Questions and Answers’ session at the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) meeting, Charles Max Fernandez, the Tourism Minister, disclosed that the plan is to introduce a new self-clearance system and kiosks to replace the paper forms.
The new system is expected to be launched as early as the Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) conference in Antigua and Barbuda at the end of May this year.
Fernandez also noted that the new system would be complemented by additional stations with more immigration officers to reduce the backlog on days when several flights are on the ground at the same time.
The government is also working with Canadian Bank Notes, the company that produces the Antigua and Barbuda passports and other sensitive documents for the country, to develop the new system.
However, the government currently owes Canadian Bank Notes an outstanding amount that must be cleared before work on the new paperless system can proceed. Fernandez has promised that the outstanding amounts will be paid shortly.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2024/01/11/immigration-department-to-phase-out-e-d-forms. © 2024 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
The Editorial Staff refers to all reporters employed by Antigua.news. When an article is not an original creation of Antigua.news—such as when it is based on a press release, other media articles, letters to the editor, or court decisions—one of our staff members is responsible for overseeing its publication.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Antigua and Barbuda Eyes Specialised Healthcare Training Partnership With Monroe University
Health Minister Michael Joseph and Monroe University President Mark Jerome discuss advanced training programmes that would allow local healthcare professionals to pursue specialised qualifications while remaining in Antigua and Barbuda.
By Cory Wayland
Attorney Wendell Alexander Urges Escaped Prisoner Bernard Hurst to Surrender as Police Intensify Search
Attorney Wendell Alexander warns that police are likely to be heavily prepared to confront the escaped prisoner following reports that shots were fired during his escape from Parham Police Station.
By Cory Wayland
ABEC Chairman Joins Regional Talks on AI, Campaign Finance and Election Integrity
Ambassador Arthur Thomas represented Antigua and Barbuda at a meeting in Santo Domingo where election officials discussed disinformation, digital donations and safeguards for election technology.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
One in Eight Adults in Antigua and Barbuda Living With Diabetes, Association Says
The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association is calling for earlier diagnosis and timely access to care ahead of Saturday’s World Diabetes Day walk at the Rising Sun Grounds.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments
Be the first to comment.