Immigration officers tighten checkpoints as Guyana faces surge in foreign entry

Immigration officers across Guyana are intensifying checks at key entry points as the country experiences a sharp rise in foreign nationals and travellers, with authorities warning that increased demand to enter Guyana is putting pressure on border monitoring systems.

Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Stephen Telford says the expanded use of immigration checkpoints is a critical part of efforts to verify that individuals entering the country are doing so through legal and authorised channels.

He explained that while the Immigration Department primarily deals with foreign nationals, officers also play a wider role in confirming lawful entry and supporting national security efforts at a time of growing international interest in Guyana.

“Guyana is the place that everyone is pushing to come to now and people would try all means to get to Guyana,” Telford said, pointing to what officials describe as rising attempts to enter the country through various formal and informal routes.

According to Telford, the country has recorded a steady increase in arrivals over recent years, reflecting Guyana’s expanding global profile and increased mobility into the country.

He disclosed that arrivals surpassed one million in the last year, underscoring what immigration officials see as a significant shift in travel volumes and border activity.

Authorities say the increased presence of immigration officers at checkpoints is intended to strengthen verification systems, ensure compliance with entry laws, and support ongoing monitoring as Guyana continues to experience higher levels of regional and international movement.

The Immigration Department maintains that the goal is not only enforcement, but also maintaining orderly and legal entry as the country continues to attract growing economic and international attention.