By GEORGINA MICHAEL
The Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority (ICSA) today launched the PNG Digital Arrival Card (PNGDAC) and Immigration Operations Command Center (IOCC).
The launching was officiated by Deputy Chief Immigrations Officer – Visa Passport and Work Permit, Clarence Parisau.
The PNGDAC is an environmentally friendly system that replaces the old paper arrival card to secure online platform where passengers travelling can fill 72 hours prior to travelling.
Deputy Prime Minister and Immigration Minister John Rosso said in a media statement: “Papua New Guinea today marks a milestone in border modernization with the official launch of the PNG Digital Arrival Card (PNGDAC) and the establishment of the Immigration Operations Command Center (IOCC).”
He said the new initiatives formed Phase 1 of the Pre-Advance Passenger Information Project, a key part of the e-Border Solution Project led by the ICSA.
“The PNGDAC replaces the old paper arrival card with a secure, online platform. From now onwards, passengers travelling to PNG can conveniently complete their arrival card digitally in 72 hours prior to boarding, making travel easier, while also giving our border agencies faster access to accurate passenger information,” Mr Rosso said.
The IOCC will act as the central hub for immigration intelligence and risk assessments, receiving and analyzing passenger information in real time. It is designed to meet international standards, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and International Air Transport Association (IATA) protocols, ensuring PNG’s border systems are future-ready and globally aligned.
“For the first time, Immigration, Customs, and the National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority, are fully integrated into one information system, allowing a whole-of-government approach to secure borders, faster processing, and smarter facilitation of trade and travel,” Mr Rosso said.
“This is more than just a technological upgrade. It is a national security priority. By modernizing our border security systems, the Government of Papua New Guinea is protecting our people, strengthening trade and tourism, and ensuring that PNG remains connected to the world in a safe and secure way.”
He commended the Chief Migration Officer, Wellington Navasivu, and his team for their tireless work in delivering the new system.
He added that Phase 2 would expand to full interactive passenger data feeds from all airlines and sea vessels.
Deputy Chief Immigrations Officer Mr Parisau concluded: “I now declare that the PNG Digital Arrival card is formally to be used as it is a good initiative for Papua New Guinea to move into the Digital world making travelling easier while being environmentally friendly.”