The Trinidad and Tobago government has announced a sweeping immigration regularization initiative requiring all undocumented migrants to register through a newly established digital framework starting next week. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander unveiled the Migration Registration Framework during Thursday’s post-Cabinet news conference, marking a significant policy shift in the nation’s approach to irregular migration.
The comprehensive program mandates that all undocumented individuals regardless of nationality must complete online registration through the dedicated portal migrantregistration.gov.tt, followed by in-person interviews to obtain official Migration Registration Framework cards. The administration has set a registration fee of TT$700 (approximately US$110), while exempting children from the financial requirement.
Minister Alexander emphasized the inclusive nature of the current framework, contrasting it with the 2019 program implemented by the previous administration that exclusively targeted Venezuelan nationals. “This Government intends to do things differently,” Alexander stated, highlighting the digital-first approach that leverages government facilities nationwide.
Registration necessitates presentation of valid identification, proof of address, and employment details when applicable. However, the minister clarified that individuals with criminal records may face registration challenges, emphasizing the government’s stance against admitting those who might “add to the nation’s problems.”
Despite the warning, authorities encourage all undocumented migrants—including those who entered illegally—to participate without fear of immediate reprisal. The program aims to create a structured immigration system while identifying productive contributors to Trinidad and Tobago’s development. Those failing to register risk potential deportation proceedings as the government seeks to balance humanitarian concerns with national security priorities.