How to Avoid the Hassle at Customs

A new program offered by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) called Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.  No processing lines, no paperwork, expedited entry benefits in other countries and reduced wait times; could you ask for a better deal?

Global Entry is available to all US citizens, lawful permanent residents, Dutch citizens and Mexican nationals.  Travelers must be pre-approved for the program.  All applicants undergo a background check and interview before being enrolled.   As an approved Global Entry member, your membership will be valid for five years with no additional fees.

Currently at 20 major US airports, Global Entry kiosks are available where participants present machine-readable US passport or permanent resident card, place fingertips on scanner for verification and make customs declaration.  Travelers then receive a transaction receipt and are directed to baggage claim and the exit.

Members still declare all goods at the Global Entry electronic kiosk and still pay regular duty fees on items brought into the country, but there is no need to complete the paper form before arrival.

This is a great opportunity to proactively plan for your next meeting and incentive travel programs, especially if international travel is a regular occurrence within your company.  For your attendees this means less hassle coming back into the US.

Since Global Entry members are pre-screened, you arrive, check-in with Global Entry and you are on your way!

It’s easy to apply:

1. Apply Online:  Simply fill out the online application and pay a $100 application fee.
2. Schedule Interview:  Once this is reviewed, you will receive a message to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
3. Interview Determines Eligibility:  US CBP officer will ask you questions, take your photo and scan your fingerprints.
4. Provide Identification:  bring valid passport and one other form of I.D.  (driver’s license or ID card).  If you are a lawful permanent resident, you must present your permanent resident card.

Find out more about the CBP Global Entry program here.

Contact FUSION to learn more about how to make your next travel incentive program execute flawlessly.