by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 4:15 PM ET, Tue January 7, 2025
One of the least enjoyable parts of traveling is waiting in a immigration line at your intended destination.
And while this step can’t be avoided in most countries around the world, there are three where U.S. citizens with Global Entry membership can apply for expedited entry benefits, according to The Points Guy (TPG.)
It seems Australia, New Zealand and Mexico offer U.S. Global Entry members a faster entry process when visiting.
Here’s a closer look at the details.
Australia
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, U.S. Citizens enrolled in Global Entry may use the “Smartgate system” when visiting Australia without registration.
Per TPG, U.S. citizens who have Global Entry are able to use facial recognition and electronic passports to access expedited arrivals and departures across 10 airports in Australia. In order to use this system, participants must be at least 16 years old and their passport must also have a biometric symbol on it.
New Zealand
When visiting Australia’s neighbor, New Zealand, U.S. Global Entry members are allowed to pass through a designated processing line for expedited entry. This perk is available at Auckland Airport (AKL), Wellington Airport (WLG) and Christchurch Airport (CHC).
U.S. travelers wishing to use this entry line must have their Global Entry card, U.S. passport and arrival documentation.
Mexico
When visiting Mexico, U.S. citizens may apply for the Viajero Confiable program for expedited entry into the country, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
According to TPG, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid passport and pay an application fee online. In addition, applicants must also interview at an enrollment center.
Applicants that receive approval can pass through automated kiosks at airports that are part of the program. Participating airports include Cancun International Airport (CUN), Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD).
Additional countries offering expedited entry
A few other countries also have expedited entry processes in place for U.S. citizens, according to Customs and Border Protection.
Those programs include the Dutch Privium program in the Netherlands, the Korean SES program in South Korea, Panama's Global Pass program, Taiwan's e-Gate option, and Germany's EasyPASS.
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