US Global Entry to become permanent

Allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers from certain countries
Global Entry kiosk
Global Entry kiosk

The US Department of Homeland Security announced the Final rule that establishes Global Entry as a permanent program. Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers from certain countries.

It helps to streamline the international arrivals and admission process at airports for trusted travelers through biometric identification.

Estimating that Global Entry cuts time spent in customs by up to 70 percent for most participants, CBP announced more travelers would be able to use lawful travel documents and provide their fingerprints at specialized kiosks to expedite their arrival into the country. Most Global Entry travelers are able to process themselves into the country in about five minutes, CBP estimated.

“Global Entry expedites the customs and security process for trusted air travelers through biometric verification, while helping DHS ensure the safety of all airline passengers,” Napolitano said in a statement Monday. “Making Global Entry permanent will improve customer service at airports across the country and enable law enforcement to focus on higher-risk travelers.”

The permanent program takes the place of a pilot program first started in 2008. The program has expanded several times in the last several years, and it is now accessible at 20 US international airports.

To date, there have been approximately 1.8 million admissions with Global Entry by more than 260,000 members and more than 1 million trusted travelers receive Global Entry benefits. The program is available to U.S. citizens and U.S lawful permanent residents, as well as Mexican nationals. Citizens of the Netherlands may also apply under a special reciprocal arrangement that links Global Entry with the Dutch Privium program in Amsterdam. Canadian citizens and residents may participate in Global Entry through membership in the NEXUS program.

Here is the statement from Customs and Boarder Protection (CBP).

More information can be found at the websites of CBP and Global Entry.