Vision-Box implementing Turks and Caicos Islands biometric digital border program

The government of Turks and Caicos Islands says it has begun the implementation of a digital border initiative with face biometric technology provided by Vision-Box, now a part of Amadeus.

According to TC Weekly, the program is part of broader plans by the British Overseas Territory to modernize its immigration system by deploying biometric gates at entry points, and other systems and devices for travel document verification.

The objective, officials say, is not only to strengthen border security but also to enhance efficiency, speed and traveler experience.

The digital border implementation is expected to last 18 months, with the system expected to fully rollout by mid-2027, according to the government.

Vision-Box was contracted last year for the facial recognition project.

“A key component of the project will be the introduction of automated border crossing technology through secure eGate systems, which will significantly improve the efficiency of border crossings,” Deputy Premier and Minister of Immigration and Border Services, Hon. Jamell Robinson, is quoted as saying in parliament this month.

Robinson added that when the digital system fully rolls out, it is expected to substantially help the government in effectively tracking illegal migrants and all those who want to abuse their immigration system.

The digital border initiative in Turks and Caicos Islands actually started years back with the deployment of biometric gates at Providenciales International Airport in 2022.

The Deputy Premier also disclosed that in addition to digital borders, there is a plan to introduce a nationwide biometric enrollment for non-citizens, targeting airports, detention facilities and public offices.

Premier Charles Washington Misick announced last year that the government was preparing a $15 million spending package on the digital border program, which seeks, in part to tackle a crisis triggered by the volume of migrants to the country from Haiti.

Misick, early this month, unveiled a major digital transformation agenda, citing several initiatives including the rollout of a national digital D and a digital government ecosystem to enhance access to public services.

Article Topics

airport biometrics  |  Amadeus  |  biometrics  |  eGates  |  face biometrics  |  facial recognition  |  Turks and Caicos  |  Vision-Box