Fiji modernises border security with 2 new systems

Fiji’s national security is set to modernise further as Cabinet has approved two new systems designed to detect early risks, support legitimate travel, and align with international standards.

The two systems are the Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR).

The Advance Passenger Information system allows immigration authorities to pre-screen travellers before arrival, helping identify individuals who may pose security or immigration risks.

Cabinet says it collects basic personal and travel details from passports at check-in, which airlines then send electronically to authorities before departure.

This includes a traveller’s name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, flight details and destination.

The Passenger Name Record system provides authorities with deeper insight into travel patterns, helping detect suspicious activity and support security investigations.

Cabinet says it contains detailed booking data from airlines or travel agents, including travel itineraries, contact details, payment methods, travel companions, booking dates, seat preferences, and travel history.

Both systems complement each other: API verifies who is coming, while PNR helps determine why and how they are travelling.

The implementation of the API and PNR systems is expected to strengthen Fiji’s border security by identifying high-risk travellers early, speeding up airport processing for genuine passengers, and improving data-sharing among key agencies.