The US has announced today at the World Travel Market that Global Entry has been extended to UK citizens.
Global Entry allows for quicker clearance of pre-approved, low-risk travellers. UK citizens can register to be eligible from December 3.
To register travellers must apply through the UK Home Office website and pay a £42 processing fee.
If it passes UK vetting the traveller will receive a UK Access Code, which will be entered when applying for Global Entry through the Global Online Enrolment System.
The non-refundable application fee for a five-year membership is $100 and applications can only be made online. Once approved the travellers must then attend an interview with a US customs officer.
Travellers will then be able to use special gates at US airports. The US claims the process cuts down passport control waiting times by around 70 per cent.
The announcement was made by US Customs and Protection Commissioner R Gil Kerlikowske, US Ambassador Matthew Barzun and director general of the Border Force Charles Montgomery.
Kerlikowske said the scheme – currently in use at 46 US airports – would enhance security as well as make travel between the two countries easier.
“The expansion of the Global Entry service to British citizens is a testament to the close collaboration between our two countries,” said Montgomery. “We have a mutual interest in operating safe and secure border controls, where legitimate, low-risk travellers are offered excellent levels of customer service,” he added.