India added to Global Entry Program

IMPACT – MEDIUM

Indian nationals are now eligible to apply for the U.S. Global Entry program, a trusted-traveler program that allows preapproved, low-risk travelers to use automated kiosks when clearing immigration at designated airports rather than having to wait in line. India is the 11th country whose nationals will be eligible for Global Entry.

Key points:

• Applicants must apply online and pay a nonrefundable government fee of $100 for a five-year membership.
• Once the online application is provisionally approved, the applicant must schedule an interview with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer, who will make a final decision on the application.
• Membership in the program does not replace the need for travelers to obtain the appropriate visa before travel.

Background: Global Entry participants may bypass manned immigration inspection queues at entry points and undergo automated clearance at 53 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance locations, significantly reducing wait times upon arrival. India joins Argentina, Colombia, Germany, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland and the United Kingdom among countries that have Global Entry arrangements with the U.S. Canadian nationals and those enrolled in NEXUS are also permitted to use Global Entry kiosks. Additional details are available on this CBP website.

BAL Analysis: Indian nationals who are frequent travelers will benefit from the program, as their entry clearance will be expedited at dozens of airports. Global Entry participants may also benefit from TSA security prescreening at designated international airports before boarding a flight to the U.S. Travelers are reminded that Global Entry does not ensure admission and they must still secure an appropriate visa before travel.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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