Lois Larson
The Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) are an excellent way to expedite your journey through the airport. Managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), these programs offer modified screening for pre-approved members, improving security and efficiency. TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST are some of the programs available under TTP. Each program caters to different traveller profiles, such as those departing from U.S. airports, entering the U.S. from international destinations, or those frequently travelling between the U.S. and its neighbouring countries, Canada and Mexico.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To reduce wait times at airport security and border crossings |
| Administered by | Department of Homeland Security (DHS) |
| Applicability | For frequent travelers to international destinations, commercial truck drivers hauling goods from Mexico or Canada, etc. |
| Programs | TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST |
| TSA PreCheck | For travelers departing from U.S. airports |
| Global Entry | For travelers entering the U.S. from international destinations by air, land, or sea |
| NEXUS | For pre-screened travelers entering the U.S. and Canada |
| SENTRI | For pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving in the U.S. |
| FAST | For known low-risk shipments entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico |
| Eligibility | U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and Mexican nationals |
| Validity | 5 years |
| Requirements | Fee, documents proving identity, and interview (depending on the program) |
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What You'll Learn
TSA PreCheck®
With TSA PreCheck®, travellers can keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on during screening. Electronics and liquids in compliant bags can also remain inside. TSA uses unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, throughout the airport. All travellers will be screened, and no individual is guaranteed expedited screening. About 99% of TSA PreCheck® passengers wait less than 10 minutes.
To enrol in TSA PreCheck®, individuals can follow a few simple steps. First, select an enrolment provider with locations nearby and submit an application online, which typically takes around 5 minutes. Next, complete the enrolment process in person, including fingerprinting, document verification, photo capture, and payment. The cost of enrolment varies by provider. Once approved, enrollees receive a Known Traveller Number (KTN) to add to their airline reservations. Membership is valid for five years.
It is important to note that TSA PreCheck® enrollees are subject to recurrent criminal history vetting. Certain violations of federal security regulations, such as assault, threats, or interference, may result in temporary suspension or permanent disqualification from the program. The duration of suspension or disqualification depends on the severity of the offence. TSA PreCheck® members can contact the Transportation Security Administration through various channels, including Twitter, Facebook Messenger, and Apple Business Chat, for assistance with any issues or questions regarding their status.
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Global Entry
To apply for Global Entry, individuals must submit an application, pay the fee, and provide documents proving their identity. All applicants must undergo a background check, and some may be required to complete an in-person interview. While Global Entry aims to speed up the travel process, members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States.
Some travellers question the benefits of Global Entry, particularly those who have experienced short wait times at customs without it. However, others find the extra cost minimal and worth it, even for occasional international travel.
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NEXUS
At Canadian Preclearance airports, NEXUS members can use their membership card at Global Entry kiosks to enter the United States without a passport. NEXUS members receive Global Entry benefits, which can expedite entry into the United States from international locations outside of North America. However, when using Global Entry kiosks at U.S. airports, NEXUS members must use their passports, regardless of their country of origin. Additionally, NEXUS members are generally eligible for TSA Pre-Check when entering the United States, but this requires correctly entering their PASS ID number from their NEXUS card.
To activate a NEXUS card, members must log into their Trusted Traveller Programs (TTP) account, click on the "Activate Membership Card" button, and hold their card in front of the proximity card reader. It is important to always travel with your passport and/or proof of permanent residence when using the NEXUS card, as these documents may be required.
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SENTRI
The Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection (SENTRI) is a program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers upon arrival in the U.S. It is one of the Trusted Traveler Programs offered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that provides modified screening for pre-approved members, improves security by making screenings more efficient, and facilitates legitimate trade and travel.
The fee for SENTRI applicants is $120 for adults and free for minors under the age of 18. This fee structure is consistent with CBP's Global Entry and NEXUS programs. SENTRI members can use the airport Global Entry system as well as the NEXUS lanes when entering the U.S. from Mexico and Canada.
Global Entry members who wish to drive their vehicles in the SENTRI lanes must register their vehicles with CBP and schedule an appointment at a SENTRI enrolment centre to conduct a 7-point vehicle inspection. There are no additional requirements for members to use the NEXUS lanes when entering the U.S. However, Global Entry cards are not valid for entry into Canada via the NEXUS lanes and kiosks; travellers must apply separately for NEXUS.
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FAST
The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program is a commercial clearance initiative for known low-risk shipments entering the United States from Canada and Mexico. It is one of the programs under the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Trusted Traveler Programs, which are designed to facilitate legitimate trade and travel by providing modified screening for pre-approved members.
The FAST program aims to improve security and efficiency during screenings, specifically for commercial shipments. By enrolling in the FAST program, businesses can benefit from expedited clearance when importing low-risk goods into the US from Canada or Mexico. This means reduced wait times and streamlined border crossing processes for eligible shipments.
To enroll in the FAST program, businesses must meet certain eligibility requirements and complete the necessary application procedures. The specific criteria and application process may vary, so it is essential to refer to the official Trusted Traveler Programs website for the most up-to-date and accurate information. The website provides a tool to help businesses find the right program and understand the specific requirements and benefits of each Trusted Traveler Program, including FAST.
Once enrolled in the FAST program, businesses can take advantage of expedited clearance for their low-risk shipments entering the US from Canada and Mexico. This can result in reduced delays, improved efficiency, and facilitated trade between these countries. The FAST program is particularly beneficial for companies that regularly import goods from these countries and prioritize streamlined border crossings.
In addition to FAST, the Trusted Traveler Programs offer other initiatives such as TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry, which are designed to expedite traveler screening at participating TSA security checkpoints and provide expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the US. These programs cater to different needs, with TSA PreCheck® focusing on departing travelers from US airports and Global Entry catering to travelers entering the US from international destinations by air, land, or sea.
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Frequently asked questions
The TSA PreCheck® program expedites traveler screening through participating TSA security checkpoints at U.S. airports.
Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the U.S. from international destinations by air, land, or sea.
To activate your card, log into your Trusted Traveler Program (TPP) account. After you log in, click on the “Activate Membership Card” button under the Program Membership(s) section.
