The Trinidad and Tobago government has unveiled a sweeping immigration registration initiative targeting all undocumented migrants within its borders, set to commence on January 30. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander announced the program during a post-Cabinet media briefing on January 22, revealing significant operational details and policy shifts from previous approaches.
The newly approved Immigration Registration Framework mandates a $700 registration fee for adult applicants while exempting children from financial charges. Successful registrants will receive identification cards valid through December 31, 2026—approximately one year of documented status.
Minister Alexander emphasized the program’s comprehensive scope, contrasting it with the 2019 registration that exclusively targeted Venezuelan nationals. “We are presently asking all illegal immigrants to be registered,” Alexander stated, acknowledging the estimated 44,000 Venezuelans identified in a 2023 Assessment Capacities Project report while extending the mandate to all nationalities.
The registration process incorporates both digital and in-person components. Applicants must initiate registration through the dedicated online portal migrantregistration.gov.tt, followed by scheduled interviews at designated government facilities. Four major sporting venues—Larry Gomes Stadium in Arima, Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, and Dwight Yorke Stadium in Tobago—will serve as processing centers to accommodate anticipated volumes.
Alexander criticized previous administration’s efforts as lacking “accountability, intelligence and strategy,” alleging that migrants previously submitted fictitious information. The new system requires verified identification, current addresses, and employment details when applicable.
The Minister issued a stern warning to migrants with criminal records, indicating that legal troubles would likely prevent successful registration. “We want persons to come to Trinidad with purpose and help us build,” he stated, adding that the government seeks productive contributors rather than “persons to add to the nation’s problems.”
With an allocated budget of $1 million—$4 million less than previous programs—the initiative will involve collaboration between the Homeland Security and Defence ministries. The registration fee is intended to partially offset operational costs, though the government will absorb most expenses.
Undocumented individuals are urged to participate regardless of their entry method, with Alexander assuring that “We don’t want persons to run away. We want persons to come forward and register.” Those failing to register risk deportation if identified after the process concludes.