According to Trading Economics, the United States processed almost 6.9 million tourist arrivals in July 2024 alone. It starkly contrasts with the previous month when only 5.64 million tourists arrived in the country.
If you also plan to enter the U.S. soon, you must prepare for an initial assessment and explore your expedited entry options. The travel documentation you need to enter the U.S. depends on your purpose and country of origin.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the fundamentals of legal and fast-track entry to the U.S. and share tips to help you prepare better, so read on.
Initial Assessment Options for Entry to the U.S.
Depending on your home country and purpose of entering the U.S., you may only need to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). However, you must apply for a visa if you’re not eligible for an ESTA.
Check Your Country’s VWP Participation
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows nationals and citizens of several countries to enter the U.S. for business or tourism and stay for up to 90 days without the need to apply for a visitor (B) visa. According to the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs, there are over 40 VWP participating countries. Check if your country (in which you’re a passport holder) belongs to the list.
If it does, you’ll be happy to know that you can expedite the entry process to the U.S. by acquiring an ESTA approval before you travel. You can apply for an ESTA online via the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website. The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs notes that an approved ESTA for tourism and business purposes typically lasts two years.
However, remember that an approved ESTA doesn’t automatically guarantee your approved admission to the United States. CBP officials will still enforce border control policies and pre-clearance procedures before permitting (or denying) your entry.
Apply for the Correct Visa
If your country isn’t a VWP participant, your initial assessment for entry to the U.S. starts with a visa application. The same goes for everyone else (whether from a VWP country or not) who wants to enter the country for a purpose other than business or tourism (e.g., study, work, or live in the U.S.). Visit Travel.State.Gov and use its Visa Wizard tool to help you determine the visa you need and your eligibility requirements.
Confirm Your Eligibility for Global Entry
Run and managed by the U.S. CBP, the Global Entry program helps expedite the clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers when arriving in the United States. Program members enter the U.S. using the Global Entry processing technology at many select airports.
The Global Entry program accepts membership applications from:
- S. citizens
- Lawful permanent U.S. residents
- Applicants at least 18 years old
- Minors with the consent of their parents or legal guardians
- Citizens of specific countries
According to the CBP, citizens of 15 countries are eligible for Global Entry enrollment Some examples are Argentina, The Netherlands, the U.K., and Singapore.
If you’re eligible for Global Entry, here’s what you must do next.
Create a TTP Account
Visit the Department of Homeland Security’s website to create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account. Every potential and existing member, including minors, must have a personal TTP account.
Complete the Application
Once you create your TTP account, you can start the Global Entry application. Each application requires a non-refundable fee of $120, which you can pay via credit card or electronic bank transfer (ETF).
Schedule an Interview
The CBP conducts a rigorous background check on each Global Entry applicant. Upon the conditional approval of your application, your TTP account will give you detailed instructions on scheduling a Global Entry interview at an Enrollment Center.
Most Global Entry Enrollment Centers are in the U.S., although a few are in other countries, such as:
- Canada
- Guam
- Puerto Rico
- Qatar
During your interview, bring your valid travel documents and passport. If you have multiple passports (e.g., you’re a dual citizen), have all of them with you so that the officers can add their information to your file.
If applicable, bring your valid permanent resident card or evidence of residency, such as a driver’s license with your current address.
Opt for Enrollment on Arrival (EoA)
If no Global Entry Enrollment Center is near you, you can complete the interview upon your arrival in the United States. CBP officers will process your EoA, including interviewing you and inspecting your travel documents.
If you are traveling to the United States from another country, you may be able to use the EoA facility at your “local” airport. Here are some countries and their airports with EoA facilities:
- Canada: Most major international airports (e.g., Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, etc.)
- Aruba: Queen Beatrix International Airport
- Bermuda: L.F. Wade International Airport
- Ireland: Dublin and Shannon International Airports
- The Bahamas: Lynden Pindling Nassau International Airport
- United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi International Airport
Don’t forget to bring all your required documents (passport, proof of residency, and other travel documents) if you opt for EoA. The CBP officer will inspect and assess them for your enrollment.
After Successful Enrollment
Once you’ve successfully enrolled as a Global Entry member, you can enjoy the benefits of expedited admission to the United States. You no longer have to deal with long queues for non-members. You won’t have to fill out paperwork, either.
Instead, you can proceed to the Global Entry lanes, where innovative processing technology will expedite your entry by capturing your photo and verifying your membership. You can further speed up the entry process by using the Global Entry Mobile App to report your arrival.
After that, you’ll receive on-screen instructions about speaking with a CBP officer. The officer will confirm you’ve completed the Global Entry process.
Your Global Entry membership will last for five years. So, if you plan to travel in and out of the U.S. regularly, consider paying the $120 for enrollment.
Enjoy Your Stay in the U.S.
Entering the U.S., especially as a foreign national, requires an initial assessment, usually through a visa or ESTA application. However, once you’ve obtained either, you can facilitate expedited entry procedures by becoming a Global Entry member. For only $120, you can enjoy the convenience of quicker admission to the country.
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