Solomon Islands Border Officials Discuss Landmark Digital Border Management System
Honiara, 23 July 2025 — The Solomon Islands took a significant step forward in modernizing its immigration services with the launch of a two-day national workshop introducing the country’s new Digital Border Management System (BMS).
Held from 23rd to 24th July 2025, the workshop was officially opened by the Honourable Minister for Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, who lauded the initiative as a “major milestone in our journey toward a modern, efficient, and secure border management system for the Solomon Islands.”
The Minister congratulated the Solomon Islands Immigration Division (SIID) and its dedicated team for their vision and leadership in embracing digital transformation.
Minister Hon. Trevor Manemahaga at the workshop opening ceremony.
“By adopting a digital approach to visa application and issuance, we are not only enhancing service delivery and national security, but also paving the way for improved revenue generation,” he said.
The digital BMS platform is being developed with generous support from the Government of Australia, whose enduring partnership with Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea was also acknowledged by the Minister.
He further expressed appreciation for the technical experts from the Australian Department of Home Affairs and the Immigration and Citizenship Authority of Papua New Guinea, whose expertise and collaboration have been instrumental in shaping the new system.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders from across government and partner agencies to better understand the features, benefits, and legal frameworks underpinning the BMS. Sessions included technical presentations, group discussions on implementation pathways, and a plenary on stakeholder coordination.
“The workshop provides an essential platform for ensuring smooth integration and effective stakeholder collaboration,” said the Director of Immigration, who presented an overview of the system and its expected national impact.
Participants actively engaged in identifying border management challenges and outlining coordinated responses to strengthen system rollout.
The two-day event will conclude with a summary of key outcomes and a roadmap for next steps.
This transformative initiative signals a bold step towards modernization, security, and regional collaboration for the Solomon Islands.
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– Government Communication Unit