Global Entry: el pase rápido a Estados Unidos que ya beneficia a tres países de Centroamérica
Viajar a Estados Unidos, sin filas interminables ni trámites engorrosos ya es una realidad para Costa Rica y El Salvador. En 2025, ambos países se incorporaron al programa Global Entry, un sistema que agiliza el ingreso migratorio para viajeros previamente autorizados y que hasta ahora solo Panamá tenía en Centroamérica. ¿Quiénes pueden acceder, qué beneficios ofrece realmente y qué implicaciones tiene este acuerdo con Washington para los gobiernos y sus economías? En este explicativo te contamos cómo funciona Global Entry.
TL;DR
- El Salvador and Costa Rica joined the U.S. Global Entry program in 2025.
- Global Entry offers expedited immigration processing for pre-approved, frequent travelers.
- Panama has been a participant since 2013.
- Applicants must first obtain a U.S. visa before applying for Global Entry.
- The program is available at air, land, and sea ports in the U.S. and is open to citizens of participating countries.
- Processing time for new applicants is typically under 90 days, though interviews may cause longer waits.
- Benefits include exclusive lanes, reduced wait times, and eligibility for TSA PreCheck.
- Ineligibility can result from false information, criminal records, or immigration law violations.
- The application process involves creating a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account and an interview.
- An alternative 'Enrollment on Arrival' (EoA) process is available for those entering the U.S. from abroad.
- The membership costs $120 and is valid for five years.
- The expansion is expected to strengthen diplomatic ties, facilitate trade, and benefit the economies of El Salvador and Costa Rica.