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Skip the immigration and security queues at international and domestic US airports with the US Global Entry and TSA PreCheck programs. Australian travellers will now have access to these fast-track services, making travel to the United States more seamless and efficient.

What is Global Entry?   

Global Entry is the USA’s international ‘trusted traveller’ program designed for pre-approved flyers entering the US from overseas. TSA PreCheck complements this for domestic flights within the US, offering expedited security screening.

Starting in January 2025, 1,000 Australian citizens will be eligible for the ‘Phase 1’ trial of the Global Entry program. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be an Australian citizen who has travelled to the US at least five times in the previous 12 months (this requirement will be removed in Phase 2).
• Satisfy Global Entry’s strict eligibility requirements, including:
  • No criminal convictions or pending charges.
  • No violations of customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations.
  • No ongoing investigations by law enforcement agencies.
  • Evidence of being a ‘low-risk traveller’ as assessed by US Customs & Border Protection (USCBP).

Successful applicants will enjoy Global Entry benefits for five years, allowing them to skip the long immigration lines at US international airports by using a self-service passport kiosk. Global Entry approval also includes TSA PreCheck access for domestic flights, which often means:

• Dedicated screening lanes.
• No need to remove shoes, belts, or laptops during security checks.

Application Process

1. Apply through the US Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) website.
2. Receive an invitation from the Australian Department of Home Affairs to complete an Australian background check.
3. Await further checks from USCBP.
4. Attend an in-person interview if required.

Costs

The Global Entry application fee is $US100 (~$160 AUD). An additional fee for Australian background checks is expected, though this fee will be waived for trial participants.

Don’t Overlook Mobile Passport Control

While waiting for Global Entry access, Australians can use Mobile Passport Control (MPC) to streamline their arrival in the US. MPC is a free app that allows travellers to:

• Pre-fill essential travel documents.
• Submit a digital customs declaration upon arrival.

Key Features of MPC

• Available at 30 US airports, including major hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Honolulu (HNL), and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW).
• Open to United States citizens, residents, and ESTA visa waiver holders (Australians included).
• Eliminates the need for paper forms and speeds up customs processing.

Steps to Use Mobile Passport Control

1. Download the free app from the Apple Store or Google Play before your trip.
2. Create your profile, adding passport details, date of birth, and a selfie.
3. Complete and submit the MPC declaration upon arrival in the US, answering the required questions.
4. Proceed to the MPC immigration lanes and present your receipt to the border protection agent.

Tip: Activate mobile data or connect to airport WiFi to submit your declaration.

By using Global Entry and Mobile Passport Control, you can make your travel experience to the United States faster and stress-free. As your Personal Travel Manager, I’m here to ensure your seamless and enjoyable trips—contact me for more tips and travel assistance!