By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a significant development for international travel, Costa Rica has been officially included in the United States’ prestigious Global Entry program. This move positions Costa Rica as the 21st nation worldwide whose citizens are eligible for this trusted traveler initiative, marking a new chapter in expedited access to the U.S. for frequent flyers and strengthening the diplomatic ties between the two countries.
The Global Entry program, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is designed to significantly reduce waiting times for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival at major U.S. airports. Instead of waiting in lengthy immigration queues, members can proceed directly to automated kiosks, complete a customs declaration, and be on their way, revolutionizing the entry experience.
To better understand the legal and procedural implications for Costa Rican citizens interested in the Global Entry program, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The inclusion of Costa Rica in the Global Entry program is a significant diplomatic and commercial milestone. It not only streamlines travel for frequent flyers but also acts as a powerful signal of trust and reliability to the international business community. For Costa Rican executives and investors, this facilitates more agile and efficient access to the U.S. market. However, applicants must be aware that the process involves a thorough background check by U.S. authorities; therefore, absolute transparency and a clean record are paramount for a successful application.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s point is exceptionally well-taken; this development is as much about reinforcing international trust as it is about streamlining travel. The emphasis on applicant responsibility serves as a critical reminder of the program’s integrity. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his clear and valuable perspective on this important step forward for the nation.
This inclusion is being hailed by Costa Rican officials as a powerful vote of confidence from the United States. Omer Badilla, the Director of Migration and Foreign Affairs, emphasized the practical benefits for Costa Rican citizens, framing the program as a fundamental shift in the arrival process for those who travel regularly for business, tourism, or family.
It is a fast entry door. There will no longer be lines or direct contact with an immigration officer, but rather automated gates specifically designed for quick entry.
Omer Badilla, Director of Migration and Foreign Affairs
The path to membership involves a multi-step process. Prospective applicants must first complete an online form and pay the $120 fee, which covers a five-year membership. The Costa Rican government then conducts a preliminary review and provides a recommendation. However, the ultimate decision rests solely with the United States government, which performs its own comprehensive background checks on every candidate.
Once provisionally approved, applicants must complete the final step: a brief, in-person interview. This interview is conveniently scheduled to take place during the applicant’s next trip to the United States at a designated Global Entry enrollment center, typically located within major international airports. Upon final approval, the traveler’s membership is activated, granting them access to the expedited lanes.
The U.S. Embassy in San José has clarified that the program is tailored specifically for individuals who travel abroad frequently. They also advised potential applicants to be patient, as processing times can extend beyond 90 days due to the thorough nature of the security and background verifications. This diligence ensures the integrity of the program and the security of U.S. borders.
For Costa Ricans who travel primarily within the United States and do not have frequent international trips planned in the near future, the embassy suggested considering an alternative. The TSA PreCheck® program, which focuses on expediting security screening at domestic U.S. airports, may be a more suitable option for such travelers. This distinction helps applicants choose the program that best fits their individual travel patterns.
The inclusion of Costa Rica in the Global Entry program is more than a logistical convenience; it represents a deepening of the bilateral relationship with the United States. It acknowledges the country’s status as a trusted partner and opens a more efficient corridor for business leaders, investors, academics, and tourists, fostering greater economic and cultural exchange for years to come.
For further information, visit migracion.go.cr
About Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería:
The General Directorate of Migration and Foreign Affairs is the Costa Rican government body responsible for managing and controlling the entry and exit of nationals and foreigners. It oversees immigration policies, visa issuance, residency applications, and passport services, ensuring the orderly and secure movement of people across Costa Rica’s borders.
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 part of the Department of Homeland Security, CBP is responsible for securing the nation’s borders and managing programs like Global Entry.
For further information, visit cr.usembassy.gov
About U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica:
The U.S. Embassy in San José is the diplomatic mission of the United States of America in Costa Rica. It serves to protect and promote U.S. interests, assist American citizens, and foster strong bilateral relations between the two nations through diplomatic, economic, and cultural initiatives.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of principled practice and professional excellence. The firm blends a rich history of advising a wide array of clients with a forward-thinking approach, consistently embracing innovative legal solutions. Central to its ethos is a profound commitment to public empowerment, actively working to demystify the law and foster a more knowledgeable society equipped with legal understanding.
