A digital visitor information card has been introduced to help ease visitors arrival in Bermuda.

A spokesman for the Bermuda Tourism Authority said the new system will also assist in collecting information and could help to boost visitor spending.

The new system allows visitors to fill out their visitor arrival cards online at bermudaarrivalcard.com and print them, but the next phase will allow visitors to use their smartphone instead of a printed copy.

Almost 500 visitors tried out the digital visitor arrival cards in December, and the BTA said feedback has been positive.

Kevin Dallas, the BTA chief executive, said: “Making it easier to get out here and get around the island is a major part of the new National Tourism Plan.

“Our objective in the infrastructure section of the plan is to work closely with partners to encourage the use of technology in a way that improves the visitor experience.

“Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, and the team at the Department of Immigration have embraced the idea of frictionless travel and have our sincere thanks for a successful phase one launch.”

A BTA spokesman said the digital process will help the BTA collect visitor card information quickly and easily.

The spokesman said: “Currently, with a handwritten form, the information isn’t physically entered into a database until days after the visitor has left. And sometimes there are data entry errors due to illegible handwriting.

“Now, with accurate information from visitors in advance, tourism officials can send pre-arrival marketing messages via e-mail, if the visitor has opted in.

“In the future, travellers can receive topical messages on where to eat and which events to attend while they’re out here. The potential positive impact on visitor spend and experience is substantial.”

Bushara Bushara, Newstead’s general manager, also voiced his support for the new system.

He said: “A smooth pre-arrival process is a critical part of a successful stay.

“That’s the reason we added the digital visitor arrival card to our pre-arrival communications with guests.

“It lessens travel stress for them and fits neatly with the airport transfers, Island Tour Centre experiences and other things we encourage guests to set-up before their trip.”