At the same time that the U.S. is imposing new restrictions on the visa waiver program, it’s also taking steps to provide more overseas pre-clearance to speed up arrival in the U.S.
The visa waiver program—which allows residents of 38 cooperating countries, many in Europe, to visit the U.S. without having to go through time-consuming applications—is getting limts that require visas for anyone who has visited Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan within the past 5 years. Exceptions may be added for journalists and humanitarian workers before final passage.
The pre-clearance program, which dates back at least 60 years, stations U.S. immigration and customs personnel at airports outside the U.S., so that clearance can take place during the waiting period before boarding the plane. On arrival in the U.S., there is no processing—it’s handled like a domestic flight.
Another benefit, especially for Canada, is that pre-clearance in Toronto and other large airports means that passengers can fly directly to U.S. cities that don’t have customs and immigration stations. Toronto, in 1962, was the first pre-clearance city.
The Homeland Security Department is now negotiating to add pre-clearance at ten more airports in nine countries, mostly in Europe. DHS likes the idea because it pushes out U.S. borders so that security risks are barred before boarding. Among the high-volume airports proposed for addition are London Heathrow, Istanbul, Madrid, Amsterdam, Tokyo Narita, Brussels and Manchester. For a complete list, click HERE
The Western Governors’ Association, representing 19 western states, has called for an even-bigger expansion of pre-clearance, saying it’s not only good for security, but could encourage more visitors to the U.S.
Photo of opening of Aruba pre-clearance: Aruba Investment Agency
Is driving from Canada into the US a problem for Brits ?
Last time I was held up for some time having to go into the office and complete forms. I was in the US 48 hours earlier but they had do it all again.
Don’t know if it’s a problem for Brits, Garry. But it is not a problems for Canadians and Americans, some of whom cross the border every day.
Perhaps it was your dry sense of British humor?!?……which I like, but which a border guard might not.
I’ve been through pre clearance in Canada and it does save time when entering the States.
Most every Canadian city has this pre-clearance, which really is formal immigration and customs inspection. Once through, you’re in the USA, even though still in Canada. The lines move quickly and it certainly beats the zoo you find on arrival at immigration and customs at major US airports.
Perhaps he didn’t enjoy being reminded that our Queen Elizabeth II still owns Canada ! We had to complete another Visa Waiver Form. But they were extremely polite.