Antigua considers stricter rules amid surge in lost passports

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is weighing tougher measures after reports of lost passports surged in early 2026, officials said.

According to Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, dozens of citizens reported missing passports in the first weeks of the year. While most cases appear to involve misplacement rather than theft, each report triggers a formal process: police must file a report, immigration authorities investigate potential misuse, and passports are cancelled in national systems to prevent fraud.

Authorities warn that lost passports can be used for identity theft or other criminal activity. Even when no misuse occurs, the administrative response strains public resources and carries financial costs. Citizens pay EC$200 for a replacement, but the government absorbs much of the expense for the secure documents.

Cabinet officials said proposals under review could include higher replacement fees and longer waiting periods for new passports, except in genuine emergencies. Emergency travel provisions would not cover discretionary trips such as holidays.

“The process is in place to protect our citizens and the integrity of our travel documents,” Merchant said, noting that the new measures aim to reduce the administrative and financial burden caused by lost passports.