Saint Kitts and Nevis is preparing to modernize its border management with the introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in 2025.
Saint Kitts and Nevis plans to strengthen border security and facilitate travel by introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in 2025.
Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Terrance Drew announced the initiative during his 2025 Budget Address on December 16.
The ETA system, a modern digital solution that many destinations already practice, will provide pre-arrival clearance for travelers wishing to enter St. Kitts and Nevis through designated ports.
The move aims to secure the borders of the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis, while stimulating the local economy by making travel to the archipelago smoother and more efficient.
An ETA for “secure yet welcoming and protective but open” borders
“As we strive to secure our borders and facilitate safe, seamless travel, it is imperative that we embrace modern solutions that align with global best practices,” says the Kittian and Nevisian Prime Minister.
“When you can just come off of a plane, we have all of your information here so you can just walk and all the information is collected,” explains Terrance Drew, adding that ETA will help increase revenue for the Caribbean country..
This initiative comes at a time when global trends demand innovative approaches to border management. St. Kitts and Nevis aims to strike the right balance between maintaining high security standards and creating a travel-friendly environment.
The Prime Minister emphasized: “The rapidly changing global landscape requires us to adapt and innovate to ensure that our borders remain both secure and accessible. With this system, we can create borders that are secure yet welcoming and protective but open to global opportunities. We therefore look forward to the full operationalization of the eTA system at our ports of entry in 2025.”
Terrance Drew also noted that the ETA system underlines the government’s commitment to protecting the Federation while leveraging technology to support tourism, a mainstay of the local economy.
He affirmed that Saint Kitts and Nevis continues to position itself as a forward-thinking, globally connected destination.
Travel requirements to Saint Kitts and Nevis
All travelers to Saint Kitts and Nevis must complete an electronic immigration and customs form (ED) prior to arrival.
This form, available online, generates a receipt with a QR code that visitors must present on entering the country. The QR code can be printed or scanned directly from a mobile device.
As far as visa requirements are concerned, Saint Kitts and Nevis offers visa exemption to citizens of several countries, including European states, Canada, the USA and Australia, allowing them to stay for varying lengths of time without a visa.
People visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis on a cruise, or for a stay of less than 24 hours, do not need a visa, whatever their nationality.
Travelers from non-exempt countries must obtain a visa prior to travel. To simplify the process, the government has introduced an electronic visa application system (e-Visa). Visitors can submit their application and pay the fee online, receiving an electronic authorization valid for entry into the country.
