Last Updated on May 17, 2025, 1:14 PM AST by Anthony Morris
Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr Terrance Drew welcomed the ‘Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name (Amendment) Bill, 2025’ at the National Assembly. In accordance with this, he visited the Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) System Unit on May 15 with his Federal Cabinet.
The aim of this amended bill and visit is to strengthen the legal and operational framework which is important for the implementation of the Federation’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system, which is set to launch in June 2025.
Visit to eTA System Unit
PM Drew visited the unit to encourage the officers working diligently to prepare the infrastructure and operations required for the June 2025 rollout of the new eTA system. This system will prove to be a major step forward to improve border security and streamline travel into the Federation.
Notably, the eTA system will enable visa-exempt countries to apply online in advance, get their biometrics checked and have their AI-based risk assessment performed. This will help them receive a secure Digital Travel Credential (DTC).
Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name (Amendment) Bill, 2025
This updated legislation will act as a foundational component in the evolution of St Kitts and Nevis as a secure, effective, and technologically advanced border management system. It will lay the foundation for a modernised and efficient travel authorisation process, positioning Saint Kitts and Nevis alongside global standards in immigration and visitor management.
Furthermore, PM Drew described the ‘Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name (Amendment) Bill’ as a bold step which underscores the government’s commitment to protect national security while enhancing the travel experience for visitors.
Moreover, the amendments of Act No. 32 of 2024, seek to facilitate real-time and multi-layered screening of travelers by forwarding passenger information to local authorities and CARICOM IMPACS. This will help St Kitts and Nevis join the rest of the world in its standardization as advocated by ICAO, IATA, and WCO.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
