Customs and Border Protection (CBP) recently announced a significant change in the application fees for the Global Entry, Nexus, and Sentri trusted-traveler programs, effective as of October 1st. The new fee structure will see all three programs having an application fee of $120, a notable increase from the previous fees of $100 for Global Entry and $50 for Nexus. However, despite the increase for some programs, the fee for the Sentri program will actually decrease from $122.25.
CBP stated that the purpose of harmonizing the application fees for these programs is to better cover the costs associated with processing applications. It has been 15 years since the fees were last updated, and as the programs have grown and evolved over time, it has become necessary to adjust the fee structure to ensure the continued success and sustainability of the programs. This move is aimed at ensuring that the agency can effectively manage the increasing demand for these trusted-traveler programs.
Each of the three programs – Global Entry, Nexus, and Sentri – offers distinct benefits to travelers seeking expedited entry into the United States. Global Entry streamlines the customs clearance process for air travelers, Nexus provides expedited entry from Canada via land, sea, and air, and Sentri allows for expedited entry from Mexico through roads and air. Members of these programs enjoy expedited processing, shorter wait times, and enhanced travel experiences.
One of the key updates as part of the fee restructuring is that minors applying to any of the three trusted-traveler programs will now be eligible for free application if their parents or legal guardians are either already enrolled or are enrolling concurrently. Previously, minors applying for Nexus could do so for free, while those applying for Global Entry had to pay the $100 application fee. Additionally, Sentri offers various family plans to accommodate multiple members of a family applying for the program.
The harmonization of application fees for CBP’s trusted-traveler programs reflects a strategic move to align the costs with the value and benefits offered by these programs. By adjusting the fees to cover processing expenses and introducing new benefits for minors, the agency aims to ensure the continued success and integrity of these programs for years to come. Travelers can expect a more consistent and equitable fee structure across all programs, enhancing the overall customer experience and facilitating seamless entry into the United States.