US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced that her country has signed the agreement known as Global Entry with Costa Rica, which speeds up the immigration process for Costa Ricans at several US airports.
The signing took place during the US spokesperson’s visit to Costa Rica, after she met with President Rodrigo Chaves.
Global Entry, according to official information, is a Trusted Traveler Program run by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving in the United States.
Keep in mind that this new agreement doesn’t exempt travelers from having to get a US visa to travel.
The program is designed for frequent travelers and business travelers.
The Global Entry program currently benefits 21 different countries, including Costa Rica, and it cuts down on time spent in lines and screenings at select US airports.
Besides getting through immigration lines faster, travelers who join the program can also benefit from access to TSA PreCheck, which cuts down on passport check times.
To join the program, you have to apply for eligibility on the official website, pay $120 (nonrefundable), and schedule an interview.
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Authorities have said this is something you handle yourself and that you shouldn’t pay any intermediaries to do it.
The deal came together after tough negotiations and requirements that began in late 2020, under President Carlos Alvarado’s administration.
