The testing of the paperless or electronic ED cards for entry or departure from Antigua and Barbuda is continuing as officials seek to ‘iron-out’ any remaining kinks in the system ahead of full introduction expected by the end of the month.
Technology Minister, Melford Nicholas, who is spearheading the efforts in collaboration with the Immigration Department, said the period of testing is continuing with passengers using the paperless system as part of the exercise.
According to Minister Nicholas the ‘live’ testing has been ongoing for the past five to six weeks and that the exercise is nearing the end point.
Additionally, a meeting is planned for Tuesday between technicians from the Ministry of Technology and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority to discuss the progress of the testing and to arrive at a date for the full implementation of the paperless system.
Antigua and Barbuda wants to implement the paperless system in keeping with the global trends and to make it easier for passengers to navigate the entry/departure processes at the country’s main gateway, the VC Bird International Airport.
Minister Nicholas explained that the system allows passengers to fill out the new electronic ED cards between 48 and 24 hours prior to their travels which will greatly reduce their contact time with the immigration officer.
He anticipates that an announcement on the implementation will come by the end of the week.
