In recent years, the electronic passport has changed the way we travel, with more security, faster processing, and smoother border control. The United States launched its Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in 2008, the world’s first electronic travel authorization (eTA) system. Other countries are gradually following suit, establishing the necessity of traveling with an electronic passport.
What is an electronic passport?
Frequently tagged as an e-passport or biometric passport, electronic passports feature an embedded Near Field Communication (NFC) chip containing biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and the holder’s personal information.
In 1998, Malaysia became the first country to issue biometric e-passports. By the end of 2008, 60 countries were issuing. As of 2025, more than 140 countries issue e-passports to their citizens.
The adoption of e-passports has enabled the integration of advanced border control technologies such as electronic gates (e-gates) and automated processing systems, allowing travelers to pass through immigration checkpoints faster.
Electronic gates
The UK government launched its third-generation e-gates at Heathrow Airport in 2015 for UK passport holders and citizens of specific visa-exempt countries. Sir Charles Montgomery, former Director General of Border Force at the Home Office, stated, “Increasing the use of digital technology at the border is part of Border Force’s commitment to improve the passenger experience.”
After New Zealand expanded e-gate access to all EU passport holders on 3 September 2024, Dana McDonald, New Zealand’s Group Manager of Border Operations, said, “Our e-gates use sophisticated biometric software and information from e-passports to carry out necessary checks within seconds, enabling Customs frontline officers to place increased focus on other tasks like assessing high-risk travelers, such as drug couriers.”
Find out more about Passport by Investment Countries and Programs for 2025
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
An eTA is another layer of digitalization in global mobility. eTAs require citizens of visa-exempt countries to pre-register online and provide basic personal and travel information before arriving at their destination.
It enhances security by allowing governments to screen travelers before they arrive. Notable eTA programs are the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), the first to begin operation, Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), and the South Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA).
The UK launched its eTA program in November 2024 and made it mandatory for citizens of specific visa-exempt countries on 8 January 2025. After several delays in the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) launch, all non-EU citizens who enjoy visa free entry to the Schengen Area must request an ETIAS from April 2025. While these programs make entry easier for many travelers, applicants must meet specific criteria and pay a small fee.
What does this mean for passport by investment holders?
Caribbean citizenship by investment allows foreign investors to obtain a powerful second passport that simplifies mobility, with visa free and visa on arrival access to strategic destinations like the UK, EU Schengen states, Russia, and China.
With the rise of e-passports, expanding eTA policies, and initiatives to improve border security, Caribbean countries have begun adapting to these changes. St Kitts and Nevis rolled out the new biometric St Kitts and Nevis passport on 10 November 2025, with the country’s Prime Minister, Hon Dr. Terrance Drew, stating, “We now have one of the most advanced passports in the world with the launch of the new state-of-the-art passport system, marking a significant advancement in national security.”
Vanuatu announced in August 2024 that it will all new Vanuatu passports will be e-passports to align with global security standards cited by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Conventional paper-based passport systems are limited, exposing passports they produce to forgery and tampering, which can lead to identity theft and nationality security risks. Caribbean passport by investment countries are maintaining the credibility of their programs with e-passports, ensuring adherence to global security standards to maintain visa-waiver agreements to Caribbean passport visa free countries, as well as the safety and security of Caribbean citizens.
