Trusted traveler programs expanded

What is the change? The U.S. has added Taiwan to the Global Entry program, allowing Taiwanese passport holders who enroll in the program to use expedited immigration clearance at dozens of airports. In reciprocation, Taiwan will allow U.S. citizens who are already enrolled in a U.S. trusted traveler program to enroll in e-Gates, Taiwan’s trusted traveler program.

What does the change mean? The trusted traveler programs allow eligible nationals to be preapproved as low-risk travelers and use automated airport kiosks rather than go through traditional inspection lines.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate. Travelers may begin to enroll Nov. 1.
• Visas/permits affected: Entry.
• Who is affected: Taiwanese passport holders traveling to the U.S. and U.S. citizens who are enrolled in a U.S. Customs and Border Protection trusted traveler program, such as Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI.
• Impact on processing times: Faster immigration clearance at designated airports.
• Business impact: Frequent business travelers benefit from the streamlined services.
• Next steps: Taiwanese travelers may apply at the Global Entry website. U.S. citizens may apply at Taiwan’s e-Gates website.

Background: The Global Entry program provides streamlined arrivals at 54 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance international locations. Applicants apply online before attending an interview with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at an enrollment center. The application fee is $100 for a five-year membership.

U.S. applicants for enrollment in Taiwan’s e-Gate program, which provides automated border entry, must be a member of another U.S. trusted traveler program. Applicants must go to an enrollment center to present their passport and have their photo and fingerprints taken. The application fee is 3,000 New Taiwan dollars (about US$100).

BAL Analysis: Business travelers, especially those making frequent or repeat trips, should consider applying for the trusted traveler programs.

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

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