Alexander, chief immigration officer discuss priorities

Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, centre, in a meeting with permanent secretary in the ministry, Videsh Maharaj, left, and acting Chief Immigration Officer Gewan Haricoo. -

On January 2, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander and permanent secretary in the ministry, Videsh Maharaj, met with the acting Chief Immigration Officer of the Immigration Division, Gewan Haricoo, "to establish the strategic priorities for 2026."

A statement posted on the ministry's Facebook page on January 2, tagging several media houses, said the meeting identified four key pillars for the year.

The first was digitalisation, with the ministry announcing plans for launching an electronic disembarkation card to modernise border entry and reduce waiting times.

The statement also listed security, highlighting plans for reviewing the registration framework for undocumented migrants to uphold the rule of law.

Infrastructure was identified as another pillar. "Upgrading the Immigration Detention Centre (IDC) with modern security technology and humane facilities," the statement said.

The fourth pillar was identified as public service.

The post added, "Prioritising the reopening of the San Fernando Immigration Office to restore accessibility for residents in the south."

"Collectively, the ministry aims to enhance national security while creating a more efficient, technology-driven system for the public."

The announcement came two days after the ministry announced increases in several immigration-related fees, which took effect on January 1.

On December 31, the ministry announced, also via social media, a "revised fee structure for services provided by the Immigration Division."

Under the new rates, the cost of a standard 32-page passport for adults ages 16-59 has doubled to $500, up from $250.

Business or 48-page passports now cost $700, compared to the previous $350.

The fee for expedited passport services has also doubled to $600.

Replacements for lost or misplaced valid passports for both children and adults are doubled, now costing $2,000.

According to the ministry, the adjustments made under the Immigration (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, are a vital component of the Government's ongoing commitment to modernising the nation's border management and enhancing the efficiency of service delivery to all.