Smarter border management can drive economic growth and boost travel

Posted on November 5, 2025

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) recently released a report on “Smarter Border Management.” The report indicates that with the adoption of newer digital technologies, governments can boost the global economy, boost tourism, and create millions of jobs by 2035.

The report indicates that managing borders more efficiently could help boost the global economy by $401 billion and create 14 million jobs, most of them in the G20 countries, the European Union, and the African Union. The report also notes that a shift in border control systems and more effective visa policies would strengthen border management systems.

Economic boost from border modernization

With global travel and tourism expected to contribute $16.5 trillion to global GDP by 2035, modernizing borders is critical to economic growth. The report stresses that by improving border management, countries can enhance security, increase tourism and enhance their competitiveness. In addition to the economic benefits, improved border management also supports employment growth and helps build trust with travellers.

Basic principles for smarter frontiers

The report identifies key actions governments need to take to modernize borders. Among the most important priorities are the following:

1. Complete digitization of visa and travel permits: Digitization of visas and travel permits can streamline travel processes, reduce waiting times and improve efficiency.
2. Adopting digital identities and biometrics: Implementing biometric technology can speed up processing and improve border security by ensuring accurate identity verification.
3. Strengthening government cooperation: By coordinating efforts between tourism, security and finance ministries, governments can address the complexities of border management and ensure smoother travel experiences.
4. Pre-clearance of passengers: Allowing travelers to cross borders before arrival can reduce congestion and improve overall travel times.

By adopting these measures, governments can provide a seamless travel experience while enhancing security.

The traveler benefits from smarter borders

For travellers, smarter borders mean faster processing, fewer delays and an overall better travel experience. Travelers are increasingly open to using digital tools such as biometric identification, with 75% of travelers preferring biometric methods over traditional manual processes. Furthermore, 85% of travelers want to share their data in advance to speed up the process.

Governments can use this information to build direct digital relationships with travelers, improve communication and increase traveler confidence. With the right systems in place, passengers will enjoy faster, safer and more convenient journeys.

Global success stories in border management

Many countries have already implemented successful innovations in border management, proving the effectiveness of digital solutions. For example, the United States uses biometric facial comparison technology at more than 200 airports. This system speeds up the entry of international travelers, enhancing security and efficiency.

The UAE has introduced artificial intelligence to speed up visa processing times, allowing travelers to complete applications more efficiently and significantly reduce wait times. Likewise, Australia’s SmartJet system, which uses facial recognition to process borders, has dramatically improved clearance times, with an increasing number of travelers choosing to use the technology.

The future of border management

As demand for travel increases, pressure at borders will increase. Governments must adapt to new challenges and leverage technology to meet the needs of modern travellers. By using data-driven solutions, countries can act faster, increase security, and ensure smoother travel experiences for everyone.

The future of travel depends on the ability to integrate technology into border management. By making these improvements, countries will not only be able to enhance security, but will also unleash the potential for economic and social benefits.

Guidance for travelers

1. Use digital travel passes: Travelers should check whether their destination country offers digital visas or travel permits, which may speed up their travel experience.
2. Embrace biometrics: When available, choosing biometric screening will save time and enhance security.
3. Provide data in advance: Many countries now allow travelers to provide their information before arrival. Doing this helps speed up the entry process.
4. Stay informed about border policies: Travelers should stay up to date with the latest border policies and ensure they meet all necessary digital requirements before departure.

conclusion

Using smarter border management tools helps enhance border security and helps balance the integration of the travel industry, with these tools providing data-driven approaches that help improve border management, reduce delays and simplify the travel experience. These changes can generate economic growth delivered by governments along with travelers and businesses. Future-oriented policies will reward governments with better and safer travel methods.