U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced last week that El Salvador has officially joined America’s Global Entry program, becoming the 20th country to partner with the United States on the new “trusted traveler initiative.”
The move is just another effort to boost travel, economic, and immigration cooperation between the U.S. and foreign countries worldwide.
The agreement, outlined in a CBP media release, allows eligible Salvadoran citizens to apply for Global Entry membership, which gives them access to expedited customs and immigration processing at select airports in America. The program is allegedly designed for low-risk, pre-vetted travelers and hopes to reduce wait times at international points of entry without compromising security.
“With over 1 million travelers entering the United States each day, this agreement reflects our shared commitment to safe and efficient travel for both of our countries,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “This partnership with El Salvador will enhance the speed and accuracy of the arrival process, while protecting national security at the same time.”
Immigration applicants from El Salvador must undergo rigorous background checks conducted by U.S. and Salvadoran authorities, including in-person interviews with CBP officers. They must also show continued participation in the program, which requires members to follow strict terms and conditions.
President Nayib Bukele welcomed the development, calling it a significant milestone in the relationship between the two countries.
“This new Global Entry partnership with the United States marks a significant milestone for both countries. By granting Salvadoran citizens access to expedited processing, we not only strengthen our economic ties and create new investment opportunities but also enhance the security of our borders,” Bukele said.
“This collaboration reflects both countries’ commitment to strengthen bond and joint efforts, benefiting Salvadorans and Americans alike,” El Salvador’s president added.
However, the agreement between El Salvador and America comes during a contentious time.
This week, the Department of Homeland Security has pushed back against growing criticism over the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia back to El Salvador. DHS released court documents detailing past allegations of domestic violence filed by his wife, including claims of physical assault in 2021, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
DHS argues that Garcia, portrayed by some lawmakers and media as an innocent Maryland resident, has a history of violence and alleged ties to MS-13.
Despite a prior immigration court ruling granting him protection from deportation, Garcia was sent to a high-security prison in El Salvador on March 15, an act the Supreme Court later deemed unlawful. The Trump administration has called the deportation an “administrative error” but refuses to reverse it, citing national security standards.