A new Border Division has been established with effect from this week as the Isle of Man Government begins work towards creating a dedicated Border Agency.

The new division represents the first phase of a wider programme aimed at strengthening border security, improving immigration controls and protecting the island from criminal exploitation and abuse of its immigration systems.

Plans for the Border Agency were announced by the Chief Minister last month as part of a broader initiative to improve the island's ability to identify, assess and respond to emerging threats.

The programme follows concerns over the potential abuse of the island's immigration system, labour exploitation, illegal immigration and organised criminal activity.

Work already undertaken by the Customs and Immigration Division has included enhanced enforcement activity at the island's ports and the establishment of a dedicated immigration compliance team.

The Government said this has resulted in joint operations with the Isle of Man Constabulary and cases progressing through formal legal processes.

As part of the restructuring, existing staff and resources from the Customs and Immigration Division will transfer into two separate divisions: the new Border Division and a Customs and Excise Division.

The Border Division will operate as an interim arrangement within the Treasury, reflecting the department's existing ministerial responsibility for immigration matters. During this phase, preparations will begin for the establishment of a permanent Border Agency.

The division's responsibilities will include expanding border enforcement activity, developing an appropriate management structure, identifying resource and legislative requirements and producing a comprehensive project plan for the future agency.

Treasury Minister Chris Thomas said: ‘This is an important step towards delivering a more modern, resilient and effective approach to border security for the Isle of Man and eventually a Border Agency.

‘The establishment of the Border Division demonstrates the Government’s commitment to protecting our communities, safeguarding the integrity of our immigration system and ensuring the island remains a safe place to live, work and do business.

‘I am particularly pleased that we are building on the excellent work already undertaken by Customs and Immigration staff. The new Division will strengthen enforcement capabilities, improve cooperation across agencies and put us in a stronger position to respond to emerging risks, while ensuring the Isle of Man remains welcoming to those who legitimately wish to visit, work and contribute to our community.’

Funding of approximately £1.2 million has been allocated during the 2026-27 financial year to support the division's initial establishment. The investment will fund additional frontline border officers and resources needed to manage increased operational and casework activity.

The programme includes the creation of 17 new posts, including border enforcement officers, investigation officers and specialist roles covering intelligence, telecommunications and policing.

Performance will be measured through a range of indicators, including border enforcement activity, immigration compliance outcomes, intelligence development and sharing, case progression, operational responsiveness and partnership working.

While the change programme is implemented, existing methods of contacting the divisions will remain unchanged.