Trinidad and Tobago to Launch Online Arrival Card in 2026

Trinidad and Tobago is preparing to roll out a new online system that will allow travelers to complete the country’s arrival and departure card digitally before traveling. The initiative, officially presented on March 11, is expected to go live on March 17, 2026, and is intended to gradually replace the paper forms currently used at ports of entry.

While the new platform is not a visa, it is an important entry and exit procedure change that affects most international travelers arriving in Trinidad and Tobago by air or sea.

What is changing

The government plans to introduce an Online Arrival and Departure Card platform so travelers can submit the required entry and exit information electronically prior to arrival.

Based on the announced timeline:

• March 11, 2026: The initiative was officially presented.
• March 17, 2026 (expected): The online platform is scheduled to go live (travel.gov.tt).
• Phased transition: Paper cards are expected to be gradually phased out rather than ending immediately.

Who is impacted

This change is relevant for:

• Foreign nationals traveling to Trinidad and Tobago who are required to complete an arrival and departure card.
• Returning citizens and residents, if the online card becomes the standard method used at ports of entry.

Because implementation details can differ by port of entry (airports vs seaports) and by traveler category, travelers should verify whether paper cards remain available during the transition.

What travelers should prepare

Although full operational guidance is expected once the portal goes live, travelers should generally be ready to:

• Provide passport details matching the travel document used for entry.
• Enter flight or vessel information and travel dates.
• Provide address details in Trinidad and Tobago (such as hotel or host address), if requested.
• Confirm basic health or customs-related declarations, if included in the digital process.

How this relates to visas and entry requirements

An online arrival/departure card typically functions as a pre-arrival registration and immigration information form, not a visa or entry authorization by itself.

Travelers should still ensure they meet Trinidad and Tobago’s entry rules, which may include:

• Having the correct visa (if required for your nationality)
• A passport with sufficient validity for the duration of the trip (rules can vary by nationality and carrier)
• Evidence supporting the purpose of visit (such as return/onward ticket and accommodation details), if requested at border control

For travelers who need a visa, the arrival/departure card process is usually an additional compliance step rather than a replacement for visa issuance.

What to watch during the transition

As the country moves from paper to digital forms, travelers should look for official updates on:

• Whether the online card is mandatory for all arrivals from March 17, 2026 or introduced in stages
• Whether airlines and cruise operators will require confirmation of submission before boarding
• Any fees (many jurisdictions provide such cards free of charge, but official confirmation matters)
• Whether a QR code or confirmation email must be shown on arrival

Practical traveler tips

• Complete the online form after your itinerary is confirmed, especially flight number and arrival time.
• Ensure the data matches your passport exactly to reduce processing delays.
• If traveling as a family, check whether each traveler must submit individually, including minors.
• Keep a screenshot or offline copy of your submission confirmation in case connectivity is limited upon arrival.

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