By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a significant move to bolster security cooperation, Costa Rica has officially joined the United States Global Entry program. This announcement came Wednesday during a visit by US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, who met with Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves in San José.
The Global Entry program expedites entry for pre-approved, low-risk travelers at select US airports. President Chaves will be the first Costa Rican citizen to benefit from this program.
To understand the legal implications of Global Entry and its impact on Costa Rican citizens, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert commentary.
Global Entry offers significant advantages for frequent international travelers, particularly those between Costa Rica and the United States. While it expedites the customs and immigration process, applicants should be aware of the stringent background checks involved. Any prior legal issues, even minor infractions, could lead to denial of entry into the program. Thorough preparation and disclosure are crucial for a successful application. It’s important to consult with legal counsel if you have any concerns regarding your eligibility.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on thorough preparation and disclosure is key. The time saved navigating customs lines with Global Entry is invaluable, but that efficiency shouldn’t come at the expense of overlooking the application’s requirements. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective on a program that can significantly benefit Ticos traveling abroad.
This is a clear and evident recognition of the commitment that our two allied nations have in the fight against drug trafficking and international crime.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
Secretary Noem praised Costa Rica as a global example in democracy and crime fighting, highlighting the country’s commitment to scanning all goods entering and exiting its borders. This comprehensive scanning initiative is a first-of-its-kind globally and aims to significantly disrupt the flow of illicit goods.
Beyond Global Entry, the two nations are deepening their security partnership by sharing biometric information to identify individuals suspected of international organized crime and terrorism. This enhanced collaboration aims to strengthen border security for both countries.
Costa Rica is an example for the world in democracy and the fight against crime and will be the first country in the world that will scan every product that enters and leaves the country.
Kristi Noem, US Secretary of Homeland Security
President Chaves emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating international crime. With US support, Costa Rica is implementing a plan to equip all border crossings, ports, and airports with scanners to inspect all cargo. According to Chaves, this initiative has already led to an 80% reduction in drug shipments from Costa Rican Caribbean ports.
Drug trafficking has become a major security concern for Costa Rica in recent years, with the country serving as a transit point for narcotics destined for North America and Europe. The increased violence associated with drug trafficking has contributed to record homicide rates in the past three years, with over 60% attributed to score-settling between drug gangs. The strengthened partnership with the US and initiatives like Global Entry signify a determined effort to tackle these challenges head-on.
Secretary Noem’s Central American tour began in Panama and will continue to Honduras and Guatemala after her stop in Costa Rica.
For further information, visit dhs.gov
About US Department of Homeland Security:
The Department of Homeland Security is a cabinet-level agency of the U.S. federal government, created in response to the September 11th attacks, with the primary responsibilities of protecting the territory of the United States from terrorist attacks and responding to natural disasters. Its wide-ranging duties include border security, immigration enforcement, cybersecurity, and disaster preparedness and response.
For further information, visit presidencia.go.cr
About The Presidency of Costa Rica:
The Presidency of Costa Rica is the highest office in the executive branch of the Costa Rican government. The President of Costa Rica is both head of state and head of government, leading the country’s administration and acting as commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing access to justice. Through innovative legal solutions and a deep commitment to client success across diverse industries, the firm cultivates a legacy of integrity. Their dedication to empowering individuals and communities with vital legal knowledge underscores a core belief in building a more just and informed society.
