WASHINGTON — El Salvador has become the first country in Central America to join the United States Global Entry program, granting its citizens access to expedited immigration processing at U.S. airports — a move announced the same day President Nayib Bukele visited the U.S. for a high-profile diplomatic meeting.
The agreement took effect Monday following a signing between El Salvador’s Minister of Security, Gustavo Villatoro, and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.
The decision places El Salvador among a select group of only 20 nations worldwide granted access to the Global Entry system.
“I congratulate El Salvador on its incorporation into the Global Entry program,” the U.S. Embassy in San Salvador said in a statement. “It reflects the mutual trust between our countries and offers Salvadoran travelers faster, more secure access to the United States.”
The Global Entry program, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is designed for low-risk, pre-approved travelers.
It allows expedited processing through automated kiosks at more than 75 U.S. airports. Enrollees also receive TSA PreCheck benefits, making airport security screening quicker on domestic flights.
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To apply, Salvadoran nationals must create an account on the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website and pay a non-refundable $120 application fee, which covers five years of membership.
Applicants must then await conditional approval before scheduling an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center or through Enrollment on Arrival when entering the U.S.
During the interview, CBP officers collect biometric data, including fingerprints and a photograph, and verify passport and identification information. If approved, travelers may immediately begin using Global Entry services.
Applicants must maintain valid passport and visa information through the TTP dashboard. Any updates, such as name changes or visa renewals, must be reported in person at an enrollment center.
Processing times vary. According to CBP, initial screenings can take about two weeks, but manual reviews may delay processing for 12 to 24 months.
CBP notes that some applications may be subject to extended review periods, even within the same household.
Travelers enrolled in Global Entry enjoy a faster re-entry experience into the U.S. and are not required to complete traditional customs forms. The program reduces wait times and streamlines airport inspections.
CBP reminds users that a Global Entry card is not required to access TSA PreCheck. Instead, members must enter their Known Traveler Number when booking airline tickets.
To maintain membership, users should renew up to one year before expiration. CBP will notify members in advance through their registered email.
Eligibility may be denied or revoked due to incomplete applications, disqualifying offenses, or misrepresentation. All applicants must pass rigorous background checks to ensure they pose no risk to U.S. border security.
El Salvador’s admission into the program is seen as a diplomatic success for Bukele’s administration and a significant benefit for Salvadorans who frequently travel to the United States.
