On March 11, the government of Liberia officially launched its new Visa on Arrival system, in collaboration with the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) and the project contractor – consortium CETIS, one of the Europe’s leading companies in security printing and identity management, and ZIP SOLUTIONS.
According to Front Page Africa Online, this digital system follows the successful 2022 introduction of Liberia’s Work Permit Issuing System and represents a significant step in the government’s effort to modernize and digitalize public administration.
It is designed to streamline the entry process for tourists, business visitors, and investors arriving at Monrovia’s Roberts International Airport (RIA), with the expectation of boosting tourism and business travel, thus contributing to Liberia’s economic growth. “We believe this initiative is crucial to Liberia’s digital transformation and modernization. By combining local expertise with global experience, we’ve created a secure and efficient system that not only enhances border control but also contributes to the growth of the country’s economy,” said Hon. Elijah F. Rufus, Acting Commissioner-General of the Liberia Immigration Service.
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Roman Žnidarič, Executive Director at CETIS, the Slovenia-based contractor, expressed pride in the collaboration, highlighting CETIS’s over 200 years of experience in security printing and identity management. “We are proud to contribute to Liberia’s development with this secure, transparent system. Our goal is to ensure its continuous improvement for years to come,” said Žnidarič.
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Key Benefits of the New System include faster application process: simplifies visa applications, reducing waiting times and paperwork, with the ability to submit applications remotely.
- Improved Border Controls: Enhances security and efficiency at Roberts International Airport.
- Cost Reduction: Lowers the cost of obtaining a Visa on Arrival, making it more accessible to travelers.
- Support for Diaspora: Encourages Liberians abroad to return by streamlining the visa process.
- Economic Growth: Facilitates easier travel for tourists and investors, supporting job creation and revenue generation.
- Enhanced Security: Establishes a reliable database for foreign nationals in Liberia, strengthening national security.
- Regional Cooperation: Aligns Liberia with international standards for smoother regional travel.
The Visa on Arrival and Re-entry Permit Issuing System marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s travel and immigration processes, benefiting both the government and the public.
