WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao is continuing to invest in technology and equipment for immigration operations at Curaçao International Airport, with the government saying the latest improvements are part of a wider effort to create a more modern and efficient border-control system.
The Ministry of Justice said several investments have already been implemented, including electronic immigration gates, the Curaçao Express Pass and protective equipment for immigration personnel.
The recently inaugurated immigration counters are the latest component of that modernization program, but Justice Minister Shalten Hato says additional investments are still on the way.
According to the ministry, the different projects are designed to complement one another rather than function as isolated improvements. The broader objective is to modernize passenger processing while maintaining the security requirements associated with immigration and border control.
Electronic gates, or e-gates, are intended to increase automation within the immigration process, while the Curaçao Express Pass provides another option aimed at facilitating passenger processing at the airport.
The government has also invested directly in the safety of immigration personnel by providing officers with bulletproof vests.
The ministry said modernization must benefit both sides of the immigration process. Travelers should experience more efficient and professional service, while employees should have the infrastructure, technology and equipment necessary to perform their duties effectively.
The latest investment comes as Curaçao continues to position its airport infrastructure as an important component of the island’s tourism economy. For arriving international passengers, immigration represents one of the first government services they encounter after entering the country.
According to the Ministry of Justice, further improvements are planned as it works toward an immigration operation that is increasingly modern, efficient and professional.