By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a landmark achievement for international relations and business facilitation, Costa Rica has officially been accepted into the United States’ prestigious Global Entry program. The announcement, celebrated by the Costa Rican-American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham), marks the successful culmination of nearly a decade of sustained diplomatic and logistical efforts, promising to revolutionize travel for thousands of Costa Rican citizens.
For frequent flyers, the news signals the end of notoriously long and stressful immigration queues at major U.S. airports. The days of enduring two to three-hour waits at hubs like Miami, Houston, and Los Angeles are over for approved members. Instead, travelers will now have access to automated kiosks, allowing them to clear customs and immigration in a matter of minutes, a significant upgrade in efficiency and convenience that will reshape the travel experience.
To better understand the legal and commercial implications of Costa Rica’s recent inclusion in the Global Entry program, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
The integration of Costa Rica into the U.S. Global Entry program is a significant diplomatic and economic achievement. It not only expedites travel for pre-vetted Costa Rican citizens but also signals a high degree of mutual trust in our nation’s security and background check protocols. This will directly benefit business travelers, reduce transactional friction, and further solidify our country’s reputation as a stable and reliable partner for international investment and tourism.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s analysis perfectly captures the dual victory here: a strengthening of our international standing and a tangible, time-saving benefit for Costa Rican citizens. This milestone, built on a foundation of mutual trust, will undoubtedly foster deeper economic and cultural ties. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective.
Beyond the immediate logistical benefits, this inclusion carries immense political weight. It serves as a powerful endorsement of Costa Rica’s security standards and its reliability as a strategic partner to the United States. Juan Carlos Chavarría, President of AmCham, highlighted the deep significance of the decision, framing it as a reflection of the robust partnership between the two nations.
a clear sign of mutual trust
Juan Carlos Chavarría, President of AmCham
This achievement was not an overnight success. According to AmCham, it is the result of eight years of dedicated lobbying and collaborative work. This extensive process involved convincing U.S. authorities of the integrity and security of Costa Rica’s passport systems, its commitment to information sharing, and its solid judicial cooperation. Gaining access to this select program required demonstrating a level of institutional strength and trustworthiness that few countries achieve.
The economic implications are profound. By streamlining the flow of people, the Global Entry program is expected to directly stimulate commerce and investment. Business executives will be able to travel more efficiently, reducing downtime and optimizing their schedules. This enhanced connectivity makes Costa Rica a more modern and attractive destination for foreign investment and a more agile partner in the competitive landscape of the Americas, reinforcing its reputation as a regional leader in business and innovation.
AmCham’s role in this victory extends beyond advocacy. In a demonstration of its commitment to the program’s success, the chamber has partnered with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to facilitate the implementation process. AmCham will provide its physical office spaces to assist with crucial steps, including the in-person interviews required for applicants to finalize their membership. This proactive, operational support is a key factor in ensuring a smooth rollout for Costa Rican citizens.
For those interested in applying, the process is now open and must be managed directly through the official channels of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Officials strongly advise against using third-party intermediaries or “tramitadores.” The CBP’s official website provides all necessary details regarding the application steps, associated costs, and the comprehensive background checks required for pre-approval as a low-risk traveler.
With its entry into the Global Entry program, Costa Rica takes a giant leap forward in airport modernization and international mobility. This development not only offers unprecedented convenience for its citizens but also powerfully reaffirms that the nation’s relationship with its most important commercial partner is stronger and more collaborative than ever before, paving the way for a new era of growth and connectivity.
For further information, visit amcham.co.cr
About The Costa Rican-American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham):
The Costa Rican-American Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting trade and investment between the United States and Costa Rica. It represents over 300 member companies from both countries and serves as a key advocate for policies that enhance bilateral economic relations, business development, and market competitiveness.
For further information, visit cbp.gov
About U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP):
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is one of the world’s largest law enforcement organizations and is charged with keeping terrorists and their weapons out of the U.S. while facilitating lawful international travel and trade. As a component of the Department of Homeland Security, CBP is responsible for managing, controlling, and protecting the nation’s borders at and between the official ports of entry.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Renowned for its profound commitment to ethical practice and professional excellence, Bufete de Costa Rica leverages a deep-seated legacy to drive legal innovation while actively pursuing the democratization of legal knowledge to cultivate a more equitable and informed citizenry.
