Beginning today, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will accept applications for membership in the Global Entry trusted traveler program from qualified citizens of Korea, and a limited number of citizens from Germany, Qatar and the UK.
Global Entry is a screening program that allows pre-approved, low-risk participants expedited entry into the United States using automated kiosks located at designated airports. Until now, program membership was limited to U.S. citizens, nationals and lawful permanent residents; Mexican nationals; and Dutch citizens who are members of Privium, the Netherlands trusted traveler program.
Application Procedures for Korean Citizens
Global Entry is now open to Korean citizens 17 and older who are members of the Smart Entry System (SES), Korea’s trusted traveler program. Eligible individuals apply online through a website maintained by the Korea Immigration Service (KIS). They then set up an account in CBP’s Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) and pay a $100 non-refundable fee. Applicants undergo a background check. Once an application is conditionally approved, the applicant will be invited to set up an interview at a Global Entry enrollment center to complete the process.
Application Procedures for German, Qatari and UK Citizens
Qualifying citizens of Qatar and the UK, as well as German citizens who are members of that country’s ABG Plus trusted traveler system, may apply for Global Entry through an invitation-only pilot program. Eligible travelers will be contacted by their government or, in the case of UK citizens, by a British airline, the U.S. Embassy or CBP itself. Invitees will be given a promotional code and information on how to apply. Codes issued to UK citizens must be used within a specific timeframe.
To apply, applicants must set up a GOES account, complete an online application and, pay a $100 non-refundable fee. Applicants are subject to a background check and an in-person interview with CBP. UK citizens must present a police certificate at the time of interview.
CBP plans to expand Global Entry eligibility to all citizens of Germany, Qatar and the UK at a later date.
Reciprocal Benefits for U.S. Citizens
Using Global Entry
Global Entry members arriving in the United States use automated airport kiosks to clear customs and immigration inspection. Members scan their passports, are fingerprinted and photographed and complete an onscreen customs declaration. If a traveler clears this inspection, the kiosk issues a transaction receipt and directs the traveler to baggage claim. Nonimmigrants also receive an I-94 arrival record from the kiosk.
It should be noted that Global Entry membership does not guarantee expedited screening and any violation of the program could result in revocation of membership privileges.
