The Fiji High Commission in Wellington, New Zealand has commenced the processing of the e-passports applications after the installation of the new e-passport enrolment kit.
The new technology has enabled mission staff to record the biometric data of Fijians who travelled from Christchurch, Auckland, Napier and Hastings since its installation.
Wellington was the second Fijian diplomatic mission to receive the e-passport enrolment kit. It was brought to New Zealand on the 21st January by the Department of Immigration in Suva.
Fiji’s High Commissioner Filimone Waqabaca said the new system would help Fijians enjoy the benefits of the Bainimarama Government’s Digital Strategy.
“We’re really glad the new e-passports have a whole range of security features that help Fijians in New Zealand travel easier and make the passport more secure. It’s also been great for our staff in Wellington to have a more integrated approach with the Department of Immigration with everything online now.”
“We normally average about 5-10 clients a day but we’ve been putting out the word through our community leaders and our mailing lists and we expect to get even more busier as more Fijians from all over New Zealand realise they no longer have to travel back to Fiji to get their passports done, “ he said.
The Mission staff have also been quick to adapt to the new technology that has greatly enhanced their work. This is part of the Fijian Government’s digital transformation that ensures secure borders and socio-economic progress for all Fijians.
High Commissioner Waqabaca thanked the Immigration Department for also considering their request for a mobile enrolment kit to be used in community outreach events in cities like Auckland, Hamilton and Christchurch that has a significant Fijian presence.