The system will also be used for processing applications for Proof of Nationality Letters for individuals who may have lost or damaged their BOTC certificate.

Deputy Governor, Franz Manderson, explained that applying for naturalisation or registration as a BOTC will be easier with the new online system as applicants or agencies can now complete the entire application process online at www.odg.gov.ky without having to physically visit government offices to submit application, make payment or provide supporting documentation.

“The brand new BOTC portal and overhauled process is designed to save time for customers. It is more convenient, with easy access all year-round, and allows applicants to submit and track applications at their convenience. It is another step towards delivering world-class customer service,” Mr. Manderson said.

To apply online, applicants or their agents should visit www.odg.gov.ky or eservices.gov.ky, complete the application form and upload all required documents. Applicable fees can also be paid online using a debit or credit card or other preferred payment options including cheque or bank draft at the post office.

The new portal uses improved security standards through multi-factor authentication. In order to gain access to the system, users will be required to enter a verification code when signing-up on the portal for the first time, along with a one-time password which will be sent by text message to the Cayman Islands mobile telephone provided at the time of signing up on the portal.

The project to deliver the new system was managed by the E-Government Unit, in the Ministry of Commerce, Planning and Infrastructure, in partnership with teams from the Office of the Deputy Governor, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, Workforce Opportunity Residency Cayman and Customs and Border Control.

Minister of Commerce, Planning and Infrastructure, Hon. Joey Hew stated that the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the importance of online options for business and commerce across our Islands. “Getting information and vital services to Caymanians and residents digitally has never been more important. The E-Government Unit had several projects in train, including this one, prior to the pandemic and will proceed to deliver other initiatives,” Minster Hew said.

Director of E-Government, Ian Tibbetts, explained that the BOTC project is part of a strategic policy initiative to implement solutions to extend access to public services, improve the quality of customer service and increase efficiency. “In rolling out this online service for BOTC applications, the project team has built on the successes and lessons learned from launch of the trade and business license online portal and the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service records check services. This solution offers further enhancements for applicants such as the ability to save partially completed applications for later completion and the ability to track the progress of submitted applications,” Mr. Tibbetts said.

Applicants to the new online system will also be able to provide feedback through an easy to use feedback form.

To accommodate members of the public who do not have online access, the ODG will continue to accept paper applications. The completed application form and documents should be placed in the ODG’s drop box at the Government Administration Building. For these applications, payment of the fees should be made at the Post Office and the receipt dropped off with the application. Cheques should not be included with applications submitted through the drop box.

Successful applicants will be required to attend a pledge ceremony