–as gov’t advances digital overhaul spanning citizen services, digital payments, healthcare delivery
THE process of applying for a Guyanese passport is set to become significantly easier, with the government preparing to launch an online portal as part of a wider push to digitise public services and streamline citizen access.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event recently, President Dr Irfaan Ali said work was advancing on putting the passport application process online, with several technical and institutional steps now nearing completion.
The government is moving simultaneously to roll out a national electronic payment system and transform both public services and healthcare through technology.
A key component, he explained, is finalising arrangements with an agency responsible for biometric processing, similar to systems already used for international visa applications.
“There are a number of things that have to be completed. You know, we have Guyanese all over the world. So right now, if you want a visa for some countries, you have to do the biometrics with an agency. And I would say within a month, we should be closer to that,” he said.
Parallel to the online passport initiative, the government is pushing ahead with the creation of a national payment system built around electronic wallets, which will allow citizens to make digital transactions more easily.
President Ali said that several commercial banks were on the verge of introducing their own E‑wallet products, with the broader framework for a fully integrated system to be completed over the coming month.
“We’re also working on the national payment system. So we are advancing work on the national payment system with the E-wallet. I know many banks are ready to launch theirs.”
Beyond the financial and administrative reforms, President Ali painted a broader picture of rapid digitisation across Government services.
“All of these things must integrate with each other. We have now, for example, we are now moving closer to having real time reading of X -rays, MRI, CT scans and all of these things integrated into a global health system. So, we are definitely pursuing technology at a speed and scale that would allow the country to propel itself among its competitors.”
Back in June 2025, President Ali had announced that several digital and artificial intelligent-led platforms would be introduced with the aim of improving access to government services and enhancing security.
The country had also moved to introduce automated and paperless processes at its port of entries.
Electronic gates (E-gates) were installed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).
These innovative gates revolutionise the travel process, offering passengers faster check-in times, smoother security screenings and a more convenient overall experience.
Other massive digitisation efforts also saw the launch of several applications including the farmers connect mobile app allowing Guyanese farmers to access extension services and agricultural support more easily.
President Ali said these efforts form part of a wider national strategy to use technology to improve service delivery, expand opportunity and better connect citizens to Government resources.
That push is also expected to be reinforced through initiatives such as the Guyana Digital School, which to date is offering schooling to students across the Caribbean region.
