New airport upgrades will transform immigration processing in Antigua and Barbuda.
The Cabinet has approved a major technology upgrade for all ports of entry.

As a result, automated electronic gates, known as e-gates, will be introduced.
These e-gates will operate at all air and sea ports.

This move signals a shift toward a fully digital border experience.
Accordingly, travellers will process their own entry.

Under the new system, travellers will swipe electronic passports.
Therefore, manual immigration checkpoints will be replaced.

Instead, high-speed automated kiosks will manage arrivals.
This change aims to reduce processing time.

Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant explained the decision.
He said the upgrade responds to efficiency and modernisation needs.

Moreover, Merchant outlined key features of the system.
These include enhanced passenger screening.

In addition, the system will automate passenger data processing.
It will also integrate operations across air and sea ports.

Merchant confirmed the introduction of e-gates.
“You take your passport, you swipe, and you go,” he said.

Beyond convenience, the government is prioritising security.
Therefore, advanced biometric technology will be included.

The system will expand fingerprint databases.
It will also strengthen watch list capabilities.

Importantly, these systems will sync in real time.
They will connect with international aviation platforms.

They will also link with global law enforcement systems.
As Merchant noted, speed is not the only goal.

“This is about the integrity of our borders,” he said.
Real-time data will support stronger enforcement.

Biometric matching will help identify risks quickly.
At the same time, legitimate travellers will move easily.

Merchant stressed the system is fully integrated.
Security standards will remain consistent everywhere.

Whether arriving by air or sea, the process will be the same.
This includes arrivals at V. C. Bird International Airport.

It also applies to heritage quays and seaports.
Accordingly, border controls will be uniform nationwide.

The upgrade will also improve reporting tools.
These tools will support stronger monitoring and compliance.

Additionally, the system aligns with ICAO standards.
It also supports future e-passport developments.

Merchant said the technology is future-proof.
It keeps Antigua and Barbuda aligned with global travel trends.

Coverage will extend to maritime arrivals as well.
Thus, both islands will share the same protections.

Deployment of the system is expected to begin soon.
Meanwhile, officials aim to minimise travel disruptions.

Overall, the upgrade marks a major step forward.
It modernises borders while strengthening national security.

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