U.S., Australia explore expedited customs clearance swap
08 May, 2012
category: Biometrics, Government
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Australia’s Attorney General and Ministry of Defense are exploring ways to grant reciprocation for fast-tracking each other’s citizens through customs checks in both countries, reports Australian Business Traveller.
The U.S. government hopes to find a way to allow Australians with e-passports use the fast-track Global Entry lane at airport customs and immigration entry points. In return, Americans with e-passports would be able to use Australia’s SmartGate lines at their international airports.
The two countries have signed a Joint Statement on Frequent Traveller Facilitation to look into this possibility but did not specify how long this process might take.
At border checkpoints, travelers would be confirmed with their electronic travel document and a biometric.
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