Citizens of India Eligible to Avoid Long Immigration Inspections Lines When Entering U.S.

Citizens of India now join a select group of countries including the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Germany, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, and South Korea who may participate in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Global Entry Trusted Traveler Program. The U.S. CBP trusted traveler program gives pre-screened, low-risk travelers a faster entry process into the U.S. While the individual application requirements vary depending on the traveler's country of citizenship, all travelers must undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview to apply.

Approved travelers will benefit from expedited immigration and customs clearance when they enter the United States through a participating airport.

Applying for Global Entry Membership

Travelers interested in Global Entry membership must set up an account in GOES (CBP's Global Online Enrollment System), complete an application, and pay a $100 non-refundable fee.

Once the online application is approved, a CBP officer will conduct a scheduled interview with the applicant and then make a final eligibility determination at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.

Using Global Entry

Global Entry membership is valid for five years, though a violation of program rules could result in revocation of membership privileges. Those enrolled in Global Entry also have access to TSA PreCheck, which gives pre-vetted travelers expedited security screening during their trips within the U.S.

Upon arrival to the United States, Global Entry members use an automated airport kiosk to undergo customs and immigration inspection. Global Entry kiosks are in place at 59 major airports in the U.S. and worldwide. Members scan their passports, are fingerprinted and photographed, and complete an onscreen customs declaration. If a traveler clears automated inspection, the kiosk issues a transaction receipt and directs the traveler to baggage claim. Those who do not clear automated inspection are referred to a CBP officer.

Additional Requirements

Global Entry members who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. lawful permanent residents must maintain updated visa information with CBP. If a Global Entry member obtains a new visa, or obtains a new petition for a work visa, the member must notify CBP in-person at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.

Please visit this website for more details.

For questions, please contact Grant Sovern at (608) 283-2668/grant.sovern@quarles.com, Nneka Umeh at (312) 715-5124/nneka.umeh@quarles.com, or your Quarles & Brady attorney.