The Ministry of Homeland Security of Trinidad and Tobago has announced a comprehensive four-pillar strategic framework for 2026 following a high-level meeting on January 2. Minister Roger Alexander convened with Permanent Secretary Videsh Maharaj and Acting Chief Immigration Officer Gewan Haricoo to establish the nation’s security priorities for the coming year.
The strategic blueprint centers on digital transformation, with plans to implement electronic disembarkation cards to streamline border entry processes and significantly reduce passenger waiting times. Security enhancements form the second pillar, featuring a comprehensive review of registration protocols for undocumented migrants to strengthen legal compliance.
Infrastructure modernization constitutes the third strategic priority, focusing on technological upgrades to the Immigration Detention Center (IDC) with advanced security systems and improved humane facilities. The final pillar addresses public service accessibility, prioritizing the reopening of the San Fernando Immigration Office to better serve southern residents.
This strategic announcement follows closely on the heels of significant fee adjustments implemented January 1 under the Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2025. Standard adult passport costs have doubled from $250 to $500, while business passport fees increased to $700 from $350. Expedited processing services now cost $600, and replacement fees for lost valid passports have risen to $2,000 for both children and adults.
The ministry characterizes these changes as essential components of the government’s commitment to modernizing border management systems and improving service delivery efficiency across all immigration operations.