Want to Speed Through Customs? These Countries Let Americans Join Their Trusted Traveler Programs Dave Odegard January 18, 2024 International Travel, Travel Tips Experiencing the thrill of great deals on international flights can often be tempered by the long waits at customs and passport control. Trusted Traveler programs are a game-changer for frequent international travelers, allowing for pre-approved screening and faster clearance through customs. The cornerstone of these programs for Americans is the Global Entry program. Along with TSA PreCheck, it provides streamlined processing upon re-entry into the U.S. and is often a prerequisite for joining other countries’ Trusted Traveler programs. The 5-year membership, costing $100, requires a background check and an in-person interview. With Global Entry in your travel toolkit, explore these Trusted Traveler programs to make your international journeys smoother: Germany Perfect for frequent flyers to Germany, the EasyPASS Program speeds up passport control at major airports like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin. Available for travelers 18 and older with a U.S. electronic passport. Mexico Viajero Confiable Mexico operates in airports such as Mexico City, San Jose del Cabo, and Cancun. It requires U.S. electronic passport holders over 18 who are also Global Entry members. The process involves an application fee and an in-person interview for biometric data collection. New Zealand Global Entry members enjoy dedicated lanes at Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch International airports. Just present your Global Entry card, U.S. passport, and arrival documentation for expedited processing. Canada A collaborative program between the U.S. and Canada, NEXUS allows expedited entry into Canada through special processing lanes. U.S. citizens with no criminal history are eligible, with a $50 application fee and an interview requirement. Panama Regular travelers to Panama can take advantage of Panama FastPass for streamlined customs clearance at Tocumen International Airport. Requirements include a U.S. passport, clean criminal history, and a $100 application fee, plus an in-person interview. The Republic of Korea Frequent flyers to South Korea aged 17 and above with a U.S. electronic passport and Global Entry membership can apply for the Smart Entry Service (SES). SES operates at Incheon, Gimpo, and Gimpae airports with a $100 fee and an interview process. The United Kingdom While the UK’s Registered Traveler Program isn’t available for U.S. passport holders, Americans can use ePassport gates at various airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester, for faster entry. Singapore Operational at Changi Airport, the Automated Clearance Initiative (ACI) is open to Americans with active Global Entry status. Enrollment in the program is free, but applicants must undergo biometrics enrollment. Taiwan Taiwan’s e-Gate is available for U.S. citizens with Global Entry, aged 14 or older and at least 140 cm tall. The program operates at several Taiwanese airports and ports. The application process involves an online enrollment, interview, and a fee of approximately $95. FAQs: Q: What are the general eligibility criteria for these Trusted Traveler Programs? A: Eligibility typically includes a valid U.S. electronic passport, no criminal history, and in some cases, existing membership in programs like Global Entry. Age requirements vary by program. Q: Can I enroll in multiple Trusted Traveler Programs at the same time? A: Yes, you can enroll in multiple programs simultaneously, provided you meet each program’s individual eligibility criteria. Q: How long does the approval process typically take for these programs? A: The approval time varies, but it generally takes a few weeks to a few months from application to interview and final approval. Q: Are there any benefits for family members or traveling companions? A: Some programs offer benefits for family members, like the ability to include them in your application. However, each traveler typically needs their own membership. Q: What happens if my passport expires or changes? A: You need to update your information with each Trusted Traveler Program. Failure to update could result in delays or denial of expedited processing. Q: Is the membership fee refundable if my application is denied? A: No, the membership fees for these programs are generally non-refundable, even if the application is denied. Q: How do I renew my membership in these programs? A: Membership renewal typically involves submitting a new application and fee. The process may also require an updated background check and possibly a new interview. Have you used any of these programs? Maybe we missed one? Tell us about it in the comments section below.
