Thursday 2nd October, 2025
The PNG Immigration and Citizenship Services Authority (PNG ICSA) launches the PNG Digital Arrival Card (PNGDAC) and the establishment of the Immigration Operations Command Center (IOCC) on Thursday the 2nd of October, 2025 in Port Moresby.
This marks a milestone in border modernization, a key part of the PNG e-Border Solution Project led by the PNG ICSA.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister responsible for Immigration and Border Security Hon. John Rosso was unable to attend the launch however he explained that the PNGDAC and IOCC are initiatives from phase one of the Pre-Advance Passenger Information Project.
In his media statement, Hon. Rosso stated that 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,” he 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.”
Hon. Rosso also stated that 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.
He said this is more than just a technological upgrade however a national security priority.
“By modernising 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.”
Hon. Rosso commended the Chief Migration Officer Mr Wellington Navasivu and his team for their tireless work in delivering this reform and the Deputy Chief Migration Officer for Visa, Passport and Work Permit Mr Clarence Parisau for launching the initiatives.
He said he is looking forward to phase 2 of the project which will expand these capabilities even further with full interactive passenger data feeds from all airlines and sea vessels.