Travel Maker’s Travel Tips here today with an overview of what Trusted Traveler programs are, and whether Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI are right for you!
Customs can be an inconvenient part of international travel. Long lines and wait times complicate what should be the easiest part of traveling – getting back home! Fortunately for the smart traveler, we’ve got a few options that can get you through Customs and back home lickity-split.
U.S. Customs and Border Patrol currently offer three different options that allow select individuals to breeze through Customs at select U.S. port of entry.
Let’s start off by explaining the application process. All three options require the traveler to fill out an extensive questionnaire, pay the application fee, and sit down with a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Agent for an interview. The applicant will be fingerprinted, and an extensive background check will be performed. Proof of Residency is required for both NEXUS and Global Entry, but not SENTRI. You can be automatically disqualified for a number of reasons, such as lying on the application, having a criminal background, and previous customs violations, among others. Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI are all valid for 5 years before they have to be renewed.
Let’s get started!
SENTRI
Application Fee: $25
SENTRI is the CBP’s “fast-travel” pass for American Citizens traveling back into the country from Mexico. When arriving into the country from a southern border Port of Entry, there will be dedicated lines for SENTRI holders, allowing for expedited reentry into the United States.
Who can apply for SENTRI?
There are no residency or citizenship requirements for SENTRI.
Who is SENTRI for?
People who make frequent trips between the US and Mexico. This includes American citizens, but, due to the relaxed application requirements, also includes those with visas or those working in the United States who do not possess US citizenship.
NEXUS
Application Fee: $50
NEXUS is the northern border counterpart to SENTRI, allowing NEXUS holders expedited reentry into the US when returning from Canada. Travelers with NEXUS will be able to use specific kiosks in Ports of Entry instead of having to wait to talk to a Customs Agent.
Who can apply for NEXUS?
In order to be eligible for NEXUS, the applicant must be a US citizen, a lawful US permanent resident, a Canadian Citizen, a lawful Canadian permanent resident, or a Mexican national who is part of Mexico’s trusted Traveler Program, Viajero Confiable.
Who is NEXUS for?
People who travel often between the US and Canada for work or pleasure.
Global Entry
Application Fee: $100
Global Entry is the king of three options, allowing for expedited entry back into the United States from any country, unlike NEXUS and SENTRI, which only cover entrances from Canada and Mexico. With Global Entry, you can also be eligible for quicker entry into other countries. That said, Global Entry can be slightly more complicated than the other two options.
Who can apply for Global Entry?
US citizens and US lawful residents. Additionally, citizens from the following countries are eligible with possible additional requirements that you can check out here.
- Citizens of Argentina
- Citizens of India
- Citizens of Colombia
- Citizens of United Kingdom
- Citizens of Germany
- Citizens of Panama
- Citizens of Singapore
- Citizens of South Korea
- Citizens of Switzerland
- Citizens of Taiwan
- Mexican nationals
Who is Global Entry for?
People who travel often for business, anyone that makes frequent trips outside the United States, or someone that has family and friends abroad.
You can read more on Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI at the Customs and Border Patrol website here.
Travel Makers MD