Trinidad and Tobago citizens will have access to e-passports from the beginning of 2027.
Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander says there will be no need for a rush to replace existing passports, as the transition will be implemented gradually.
Speaking to journalists after the launch of a barbering programme in Tunapuna on Monday, he reiterated that the Government is moving away from machine-readable passports.
“We have reached a point in that application process, and we have not completed our mission yet with the providers of the machine-readable passports, but as we wait, all will be well. We were looking at the e-passports that should be online, we are looking at the first day of 2027.”
Minister Alexander noted that the new system will be easier for citizens, as they will not be required to queue at Immigration Division offices.
“With the new process, when the new process starts, hopefully next year, you would not have to go to an office. You will download, upload and all your documents, all of that, you scan it, check it and then you will get your passport. It makes the process simpler.”
The Homeland Security Minister advised that there is no need for the population to rush to get a new passport.
“If we are moving away from machine-readable passports into e-passports, there would be a time when you will have to, there are some changes to come. I see people running coming now and then eventually, what would you do? They will have to come for the e-passports.”
Minister Alexander confirmed that the Ministry will receive another shipment of machine-readable passports in September, which will be enough to supply the Immigration Division into the new year.