Saint Kitts and Nevis’ eTA system proves timely and impactful during 2025 Music Festival surge

Basseterre, Saint Kitts, July 07, 2025 (SKNIS): The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is celebrating the successful implementation of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system, launched on May 26, 2025, as the digital gateway proved instrumental during one of the nation’s busiest travel periods for the year – the St. Kitts Music Festival.

From June 21–28, 2025, a total of 7,711 passengers arrived in Saint Kitts and Nevis via air and sea, marking a dramatic increase compared to 4,429 during the same period in 2023 – a difference of 3,718 passengers. The surge in visitors, drawn by one of the Caribbean’s premier entertainment events, was seamlessly accommodated thanks to the newly implemented eTA system.

“This record-breaking performance during the festival is a powerful demonstration of how innovation and strategic planning are improving our visitor experience while strengthening national security,” said Prime Minister and Immigration Minister, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew. “We are not only keeping pace with global standards - but we are also setting them.”

Notably, June 26, 2025 – the day before the main stage performances – saw 1,564 arrivals, the highest ever recorded for a single day ahead of the Music Festival.

In just its first month of operation, the eTA platform has processed over 21,000 applications, with 21,138 approvals and an average turnaround time of just over nine (9) hours. The system has streamlined immigration processing at ports of entry, reducing average wait times by 96 percent –  from 50 seconds to just three (3) seconds – via the high-tech biocorridor.

The impact of the system extends beyond speed and security. More than 8,800 visitors listed “pleasure” as their reason for travel, confirming the Federation’s continued appeal as a leisure destination. In addition, $107,525 in traveler fees was collected, contributing to national development.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis remains committed to modernising border management and enhancing the visitor experience, especially as international travel to the Federation continues to grow.

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