1.         Today, on 3 June 2016, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Consular, Passport and Visa Division of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security of the United States for the Development of an International Expedited Traveler Initiative (also known as the Global Entry Programme) was signed. The MoU was signed in Washington D.C. by the Ambassador of India to the United States and the Deputy Commissioner, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security of the United States.

2.         The Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection programme, which allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. India’s entry into the Global Entry Programme will offer Indian citizens opportunity to apply for membership in this Programme. After joint scrutiny and clearance by both countries, the approved Indian travelers will be extended the facility of expedited entry into the United States through automatic kiosks at select airports.

3.         The procedures for India’s entry into the Global Entry Programme are expected to be completed in the coming months.

Washington D.C.

3 June 2016