Traveling to Curaçao has become significantly easier thanks to a new initiative introduced by Entrust, a global leader in identity-centric software. In collaboration with the Government of Curaçao, Entrust has launched a seamless and contactless travel experience through its subsidiary, Airside.
The Airside Digital Identity App, part of the world’s first fully operational pre-processing biometric border crossing program, allows travelers from the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union to enjoy a streamlined entry process. This service became available on June 26.
Travelers can enroll in the Curaçao Express Pass Program via the app, enabling them to securely share passport data with border control agents before their trip. “Upon arrival at Curaçao International Airport, pre-processed travelers enjoy expedited clearance through designated lanes where they simply show their faces to process through contactless e-Gates,” Entrust officials explained. This process eliminates the need for physical document checks, significantly reducing processing times by more than 50% while maintaining high levels of security and accuracy.
The verification and sharing of electronic data are initiated by the travelers themselves, and the app is tailored to meet Curaçao’s specific governmental requirements. “The government processes the data after opt-in user consent for entry via the border management system but does not hold it long-term in a gallery,” officials noted. “Your verified information is protected on your encrypted device. Only you can share the information with immigration… Data will only be available for the e-Gates on the day of travel and will then be automatically deleted.”
This innovative program follows Curaçao’s busiest year for tourism, with the island welcoming 1.76 million visitors in 2023, resulting in an estimated economic impact of $1.4 billion. Curaçao, one of the four subdivisions of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, is poised to enhance its appeal further with this cutting-edge travel technology.