A new paperless border control system is set to launch next month, marking a significant advancement in the country’s immigration processes.

Telecommunications Minister Melford Nicholas announced that the system, which is currently in its pilot phase, is expected to be fully operational in February, although a specific launch date has not yet been confirmed.

The push for a paperless system began in 2020 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, when minimizing physical contact and the handling of paper documents became a priority. The transition away from traditional paper ED cards for travelers was deemed urgent at that time.

The initial effort to create a paperless solution was based on a platform developed by IMPASS, part of a regional security initiative.

However, challenges arose in integrating this with the existing border control technology provided by Canadian Bank Notes (CBN).

The government faced various hurdles, including outstanding financial obligations to CBN, which had accumulated during the pandemic-related revenue declines.

Fortunately, Minister Nicholas reported a breakthrough when a local developer—who owns an IT company in the United States—proposed a tailored system for Antigua and Barbuda’s specific needs. This developer had previously worked on projects with the Citizenship by Investment Program (CIP) and reached out to key officials in the Immigration

Department, Customs Division, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority to discuss the system’s potential.

According to Minister Nicholas, the proposed system has received positive feedback from border control agencies and has already undergone testing to ensure compatibility with the existing framework provided by CBN.

Originally, the plan was to roll out the system in November, but delays have pushed the launch to February.

Once implemented, travelers will be able to complete their ED cards digitally at least 24 hours before their journey using their smartphones, receiving a QR code to present at the border.

This process will streamline check-ins and facilitate quicker processing at Customs, ultimately enhancing efficiency and expected increased revenue for the department.