BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, January 4th, 2012 (CUOPM) – St. Kitts and Nevis begins issuing new E (Biometric) passports from January 5th, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Labour and Social Security has announced.
The Ministry said in a news release that the new passports, with several improved security features, are being introduced as part of government’s ongoing efforts to prevent fraud and identity theft consistent with its regional and international commitments.
The Passport Office will issue the new E - (Biometric) Passports to citizens and residents, who are applying for the documents for the first time, or to those requesting replacements.
Citizens and residents currently using the machine readable passports will continue doing so, once these are not expired, lost and or damaged.
They will not, at this time, be required to change to the new E - (biometric) Passports; until the old document has expired.
Information on the various fees to be applied through the purchase of stamps for the issuance of the new E Passport can be obtained from the Passport Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Labour & Social Security, Government Headquarters, Church Street, Basseterre.
The Ministry said that introduction of the new passport has become necessary given the regional and global efforts to improve security.
“The new document to be issued by the Government of St Kitts and Nevis is more secured and designed with specific imbedded features intended to enhance the integrity of the new E Passport and will facilitate more seamless travel by citizens and residents of the Federation.
Fees associated with the new Biometric passports are as follows:
Issue of a 32-page epassport for applicants under 16 years or over 65 years – EC$150.00
Issue of a 32-page e-passport for applicants 16 years or under 65 years – EC$250.00
Replacement of a lost, stolen and or damaged e-passport (except for citizenship by investment) – EC$500.00
Replacement of a lost, stolen and or damaged e-passport with a copy of a report from the Police, Fire & Rescue Services Department, other relevant authority, or such credible information supporting the applicant's statement – EC$250.00
Processing and issuing of a passport in four days or less (except for citizenship by investment) – EC$350.00.
Separate fees for applicants who obtain citizenship by investment are to be published shortly.
Further information and or clarification can be obtained by calling 467 1202 and or 467 1209 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM
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