Australians Granted Faster Entry into the United States

Australia has officially joined the U.S. Global Entry program that will start in 2025, making travel to the United States easier for Australians.

Initially, about 1,000 Australians who have visited the United States five or more times in the past year will have expedited entry into the country.

The second phase of the program, which requires approval from Parliament in Canberra, will make the program available to all Australians.

Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke expressed the government’s commitment to providing expedited immigration and customs clearance for eligible Australians starting in January 2025.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Senator Penny Wong emphasized that joining the Global Entry program showcases the strong bond between Australia and the United States.

“The foundation of the friendship between Australia and the United States is the friendship between our people. This program will deepen these links and facilitate greater commercial connections,” said Minister Wong.

With over 1.3 million Australian visitors to the United States annually spending more than US$8.7 billion, the program will benefit a significant number of travelers.

Australia also has approximately 500 defense personnel and their families stationed in the United States.

Australia’s participation in the Global Entry program aligns with other nations like the UK and Singapore, allowing for the exchange of time-sensitive transit information with the United States.

Initially announced in 2018, Australia’s inclusion in the Global Entry program faced delays due to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath.