Government says TA form to be dropped earlier than planned
The controversial Travel Authorisation form imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic is to be dropped three weeks earlier than previously announced.
The Government announced yesterday that the TA’s elimination would be effective November 13, saying the move would “streamline the overall travel experience for visitors”. Previously the Government said the TA form would finish on November 30.
It means the $40 fee, along with proof of vaccination or medical insurance, will end on that date.
From November 14, the Bermuda Tourism Authority is to reinstate the Bermuda Arrival Card, a digital form for visitors only, which was in place before the pandemic.
The card is a digital form for visitors only, which captures visitor data, generating tourism statistics for the country and provides visitors, who opt-in, with relevant, timely communications to enhance their stay. It is meant to be completed before travel to the island.
The online visitor arrivals process can be completed in three steps.
1.Go to www.BermudaArrivalCard.com
2.Complete the form accurately and completely with visitor details
3.Download the form and present it to immigration officials for inspection
There is no approval process, no fee, and once the required fields have been completed the form is available as a downloadable link or by e-mail.
All non-residents who travel to Bermuda as of November 14 must complete the Bermuda Arrival Card even if they have previously completed a Travel Authorisation form.
Hard copy “Pink Forms” will be available for non-resident travellers who have not completed the digital Bermuda Arrival Card. There is no need to accept a “Pink Form” if you have completed the digital form.
The Minister of Tourism, Vance Campbell, said: “Our Government has delivered on our pledge to protect the health and safety of our residents and visitors, and now with the earlier end date for the TA, travel to Bermuda will be simpler for our visitors.”
Tracy Berkeley, the interim chief executive officer at BTA added: “Bermuda’s tourism industry fully supports the decision to eliminate the Travel Authorisation and bring the island’s public health emergency orders to an end.
“We are especially appreciative of our partners in the Ministry of Health for the collaborative approach to solving our shared challenges. This is exciting news that will help to restore a frictionless travel experience for our visitors.”
Stephen Todd, the chief executive officer at the Bermuda Hotel Association said: “Bermuda’s hoteliers are thrilled with the decision to end the Travel Authorisation three weeks early.
“This move comes at a crucial time before the US Thanksgiving travel period. This is a time when we anticipate welcoming visitors looking to take advantage of the current fall into winter promotions. It should also support demand in time for the return of three additional direct flights from Miami, JFK, and Toronto.”
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