Caribbean mulls over Schengen-style visa
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Travellers could be able to move between Caribbean countries on a single visa similar to the Schengen, a task force has suggested.
The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Aviation Task Force, made up of representatives from airlines, regulatory bodies, policy makers and tourism professionals, has recommended the single visa as one of several initiatives to boost tourism to the islands.
Its visa could take on the same model as one devised by Saint Lucia-based Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), a sub-region that is in the process of creating its own economy and is expected to offer clearance at first entry for member states. If successful for OECS, the single visa could be implemented across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) region.
As well as the single visa, the force also put forward a standardised entry and exit card across the Caribbean, which would reduce airline costs and streamline customer service. Again it will follow a model set by OECS if successful.
The two suggestions were part of a range of initiatives put forward with the aim to boost tourism in Caribbean. A review of taxes and fees for regional travel and the wish to end the second screening for transit passengers were also discussed.