Dec. 1, 2010 -- The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) will soon launch one of the world’s first automated multi-state travel documents (CARIPASS) for use within ten (10) Participating countries of the Community. Under the coordination of the Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (CARICOM IMPACS), the CARIPASS is another step in the movement towards standardized border control facilities within CARICOM, including training, entry and exit procedures and travel documents.

The CARIPASS allows CARICOM citizens and legal residents of Participating States over the age of sixteen (16) years to access a safe and secure automated self-processing gate within selected airports. Cardholders will benefit from the ease of expedited processing through immigration checkpoints when using the CARIPASS, which is the
size of a credit card. Issued cards can be valid for a period of one (1) or three (3) years and will be issued by CARIPASS Enrolment Centres in each of the ten Participating States.

The CARIPASS will also assist the Region in the global fight against identity theft and illegal migration, given that the document is matched to the cardholder using both biometric and biographic data captured upon enrolment.

Installation of the CARIPASS System commenced in November 2010. Members of the public should note that specific launch dates in each Participating CARICOM Member State would be dependent on the passing of relevant legislation.

Participating countries will include Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Trinidad & Tobago. For more information, visit www.caripass.org.