St. Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew has announced the implementation of the advanced E-Border system, a key part of the digital transformation, as one of the first in the Caribbean. He referred to this initiative as a great innovation that will facilitate seamless travel and will strengthen border security.
Reportedly, the National Assembly passed the Advanced Passenger Information and Passenger Name (Amendment) Bill, 2025 which lays the foundation for the introduction of the modernized and efficient travel authorization process and positions St. Kitts and Nevis alongside global standards in immigration and visitor management.
Shortly after the successful passage of the Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name (Amendment) Bill, 2025 the Federal Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew visited the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) System Unit on Thursday, May 15, 2025 to see firsthand the work which is being done with the new eTA system, as it is ready for implementation next month.
The visit took place as officers are working diligently to prepare the infrastructure and operations that are required for the June 2025 rollout of the new eTA system as a major step forward in enhancing border security and streamlining travel into the Federation.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis announced the launch of its eTA portal and mobile app, offering a 50% discount until September 01, 2025. It will simplify people’s travel with electronic authorization – Smart Borders, Seamless Travel.
The eTA service offers fee exemptions to the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis, CARICOM or OECS nations, diplomats, children under 2 and selected professionals. The application is introduced to simplify travelers’ journey as Smart Borders, Seamless Travel that will begin on May 26, 2025.
Considering his visit, PM Drew called it a transformative leap forward for St. Kitts and Nevis. The eTA system embodies the vision of a safer, smarter and more connected nation.
Drew noted that by embracing this digital innovation, they are protecting the borders and also positioning themselves as a Caribbean leader in smart travel technology. He urged all the travelers and stakeholders to join them in this exciting new chapter.
Moreover, the eTA system will be accessible via a dedicated online portal and mobile app, it will streamline pre-travel authorization for visitors while enhancing border security protocols. Travelers across the world can apply through the official web portal or via mobile apps that are available on Google Play and the Apple App Store from May 26, 2025.
Further, to celebrate its launch, the government will offer a 50% discount on the standard eTA service charge through Sept 01, 2025 reducing the service charge to US$8.50. After Sept 01, 2025 the standard rate of US$17 will be implemented.
Later on June 02, 2025 the federation of St. Kitts and Nevis will elevate its border infrastructure by integrating the eTA system with a state-of-the-art biometric corridor at the RLB International Airport. The integration will expedite passenger processing, reducing wait times and fortifying national security through advanced identity verification.
Notably, the eTA system reflects the strategic priorities of the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Drew. The new system will foster sustainable tourism, will prioritize national security and leverage technology to improve public services.
This initiative aligns with global trends towards digitizing border management and will ensure that St. Kitts and Nevis remains competitive in the international tourism sector. Travelers and partners are encouraged to visit the official site starting from May 26, 2025 or download mobile applications for seamless access to eTA services.