WILLEMSTAD - The government of Curaçao, in collaboration with Curaçao Airport Holding, announced today that the world's first mobile digital ID verification system for contactless border crossing will be created. This system allows for necessary checks to be conducted in advance, prior to the flight. As a result, the entire border control procedure will become easier and faster. The program will utilize integrated "remote" and "in-person" technologies, provided through a partnership between Airside and Vision-Box. Airside is a leader in privacy-focused digital identity systems, and Vision-Box is the global leader in biometric travel solutions.
According to Mr. Shalten Hato, Minister of Justice of Curaçao, "This initiative demonstrates Curaçao's commitment to employing innovative solutions to provide a safe and seamless experience for all travelers crossing our borders." Priscilla Duin-Circkens, Chief Strategy Officer at Curaçao Airport Holding, further emphasized that "This collaboration among all stakeholders represents a significant advancement in the digital era of travel and innovative border control processes, striking a balance between the country's security and passenger privacy." Curaçao has relied on the contributions of several local companies in this important project, including KPC, Immigration Service, ACTS, SBIR, Net Vision, EY, and the Curaçao Tourism Board.
An important aspect of this digital ID verification is that the passenger initiates the verification process of the digital travel documents and sharing of these documents themselves. The Airside application can only verify and share electronic travel documents, including biographical and biometric data, with strict consent from the traveler. This allows the immigration services of the country to employ a risk-based approach to anticipate any potential issues.
The biometric information and verified passport data remain on the passenger's app on their device. Airside cannot access this information, and the passenger maintains full control at all times. At the time of travel, the passenger can send their information to the Curaçao Immigration Service with a single button press. This information will only be used for the specific travel process for which the passenger has applied. When the passenger presses the button, a "one-token identity" is created and transmitted to border control through encryption. Airside and Vision-box employ a unique system that handles encryption technology, ensuring the preservation of privacy.
What can you imagine with this?
As a passenger, you choose to use the Airside Digital Identity App on your smartphone (iPhone or Android);
Through this app, you share your verified passport with border control officials before your journey;
Upon arrival/departure at the airport, you can easily and swiftly pass through the contactless platforms using facial recognition;
The result is that both tourists and residents of Curaçao who opt for this system essentially navigate the border control process using their faces as proof.
With a capacity of 2.5 million passengers per year, CUR is ready to continue its integral role in our island's tourism sector. In 2022, the airport served 1.46 million passengers, with international routes showing a remarkable increase of 106% compared to 2019. This robust performance has already exceeded previous forecasts. The airport expects to welcome approximately 1.6 million passengers in 2023 and anticipates long-term growth of around 10% per year. With this new, fully contactless process, Curaçao paves the way for seamless border control for travelers, with safety and convenience remaining paramount.
Wilhelmus Ignacio, Managing Director of Curaçao Airport Holding, stated, "This groundbreaking collaboration embodies our brand values of innovation and inclusivity. By harnessing state-of-the-art technology, we are not only enhancing the operational excellence of immigration but also the initial impression travelers have of Curaçao. This initiative embodies our commitment to providing travelers with a seamless, authentic, and unforgettable experience from the moment they arrive at our destination, all while ensuring passenger privacy remains a top priority."
Minister of Economic Development, Ruisandro Cijntje, declared, "This new program will mean a truly customer-friendly experience for our tourists, allowing them to feel at ease throughout the entire airport journey. This, in turn, will enable them to quickly explore our beautiful island."
The biometric digital ID verification for contactless border crossing will be rolled out in the first half of 2024.
