Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials are espousing the benefits of the agency’s recently signed agreement initiating negotiations to include the Dominican Republic among Global Entry foreign partner countries.
Authorities indicated CBP Deputy Commissioner Troy Miller and Dominican Republic Minister of Foreign Affairs Roberto Álvarez signed a memorandum of understanding expediting entry procedures to U.S. territory.
“We are excited to be partnering with the Dominican Republic to work toward welcoming Dominican citizens into Global Entry membership in the future,” Miller said. “These initial steps symbolize our countries’ efforts and commitment to foster a relationship that facilitates commerce and legitimate travel and, just as importantly, strengthens both of our countries’ security while providing a benefit to our citizens.”
Per officials, Dominican citizens who apply and gain approval to participate in Global Entry will be able to enter the United States using the control kiosks in the Federal Inspections Service areas of 85 airports in the United States and other countries.
“Once fully implemented, Global Entry will contribute to the growing tourism and business ties that currently position the Dominican Republic as an ideal destination for relocating North American companies to the region and for strengthening supply chains,” Álvarez said.
Additionally, the CBP noted successful Global Entry applicants would benefit from the TSA PreCheck program, enabling a smoother screening process at security control for domestic and international flights departing the United States – eliminating the requirement to remove shoes, jackets or belts, and computers from carry-on bags.