Consultant calls for ETA system to tighten Fiji border controls

Investment consultant Sandeep Singh is calling on the Government to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, arguing that Fiji’s current visa-on-arrival policy is being misused.

In his submission on the national budget, Mr Singh urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Immigration to review and reform the existing entry framework.

He said Fiji should require travellers from India and Bangladesh to obtain an ETA prior to arrival, similar to systems used in other countries.

“This will allow proper screening before entry and reduce the risks currently faced at our borders,” he said.

Mr Singh claimed the current system was affecting the local workforce and contributing to issues including human trafficking, worker exploitation, and immigration abuse.

He alleged that he had encountered individuals in Fiji operating as “love gurus, astrologers, pundits, black magic gurus and illegal immigrants,” though these claims were not independently verified.

He further alleged that some individuals were operating outside the conditions of their permits, including investor permit holders allegedly involved in religious organisations and fundraising activities not aligned with approved business purposes.

Mr Singh said there were increasing cases of people entering Fiji under false pretences, misusing permits, or engaging in activities outside visa conditions.

He also alleged misuse of investor permits for unregulated services and fraudulent operations.

“We must act now,” Mr Singh said.

He said an ETA framework would not discourage genuine investors or visitors, but instead improve screening through clear categories for business and tourism travel.

“This reform will not negatively impact genuine investors or businesses. Instead, a proper ETA framework can include clear categories for business travellers and tourists, allowing them to apply easily by submitting basic documentation,” he said.

Mr Singh also proposed that work permit holders obtain approval before entering Fiji.

His recommendations include:

• All visitors applying for an ETA before travel
• Tourist and business visas limited to 30 days per entry
• Multiple-entry ETAs with strict total stay limits
• Extensions requiring verified local sponsorship
• Strong penalties for overstays

He also claimed that while in India, he encountered individuals allegedly holding fraudulent or misrepresented permits linked to Fiji, including alleged false associations with organisations such as the Fiji Sugar Corporation.

Mr Singh further alleged that Fiji was being promoted in some circles as a transit route to Australia and New Zealand, with individuals reportedly paying between US$10,000 and US$30,000 to secure entry through questionable means.

“This is not just an immigration issue; it is a national security concern,” he said.

“Fiji must take immediate action to close these loopholes, protect its workforce and safeguard the integrity of its immigration system.”