By the Caribbean Journal staff

St Kitts and Nevis has begun issuing biometric passports today, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Labour and Social Security.

The new passports are being introduced as part of the government’s efforts to prevent fraud and identity theft.

“The new document to be issued by the Government of St Kitts and Nevis is more secured and and designed with specific imbedded features intended to enhance the integrity of the new E-Passport and will facilitate more seamless travel by citizens and residents of the Federation,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry said that the introduction of the new passport had become necessary given regional and global efforts to improve security.