All business executives know that time is a precious commodity that can't afford to be wasted. If you are returning from an international business trip or need to catch a flight to New York, you may find yourself languishing in a security or immigration line for what may seem like hours. With corporate travelers earning airlines 60% of their revenue, they cannot afford to have you waiting either. These three Trusted Traveler Programs were designed with the frequent corporate traveler in mind. Which one is right for you?
GLOBAL ENTRY
This program is intended for the frequent international traveler and open to the following:
US Citizens
Lawful Permanent Residents
Dutch Citizens
South Korean Citizens
Mexican Nationals
When returning from your international trip you may bypass the long lines and enter the US by using an automated kiosk. Simply present your machine-readable US Passport or Permanent Resident Card, place your fingertips on the scanner, and make your customs declaration. By using Global Entry, filling out the blue customs form on the airplane before landing becomes obsolete. The kiosk will issue you a traveler receipt and direct you to baggage claim and exit.
The cost to apply is $100 (non-refundable) and you will go through a rigorous background check and face to face interview with a US Customs and Border Patrol officer.
NEXUS
This program is for those who primarily travel between the US and Canada by either land, air or sea. The NEXUS Card, which uses proximity Radio Frequency technology, is also approved as an alternative to the passport (but only between the US and Canada). If you try to use your NEXUS Card to go to London, you will be sent away. Only citizens and permanent residents of the US and Canada may apply.
Upon entering and exiting Canada or the US, you may simply present your NEXUS Card or have your iris scanned for identification, and make your declaration.
The cost to apply is US $50 or CN $50 (non-refundable).
TSA PRE CHECK
This service provides a quicker transit through airport security lines by providing a designated line for approved members. You do not have to remove your belt, shoes, or any lightweight jacket you may be wearing, nor do you need to remove your 3-1-1 compliant bag and laptop from your luggage.
If you are a frequent traveler on one of the 11 participating airlines (Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America), chances are you have been automatically enrolled, so check your boarding pass for the TSA PreCheck logo and proceed to the designated lane.
If not, you may apply online for $85 (non-refundable). You must be an American citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident to apply.
To apply for any of the aforementioned programs or for more information, click here.
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