GOES SENTRI
Posted on: September 12th, 2017
10 Things You Need To Know About
SENTRI Before You Apply
Travelling abroad is becoming increasingly popular in the modern society
as it is getting more facilitated and affordable. This is not the only reason, though. For some
people, moving in and out of their home country is a necessity depending on the
essence of their work. Although, it is said that travelling can broaden your
mind, there are certain aspects that can really make your journey tedious and
unpleasant.
For instance, the annoyances of the airport. From canceled flies to
endless lines on the customs, you cannot dismiss the downers of traveling
abroad. To spare the hassle of crossing
the border when entering into the U.S., the Customs and Borders Protection
(CBP) has developed different Trusted Traveler Programs. One such program is
SENTRI, that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers who cross the border from
Mexico to U.S. to skip some of the security procedures. The program provides
its members with a number of benefits that can alleviate their travel. However,
before you open your application form and start to fill it in, consider the
following ten things:
1. SENTRI is Specifically Designed for U.S. –
Mexico Land Border Crossing
Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection or SENTRI
grants pre-approved, low risk travelers access to expedite CBP process at the
land border crossing upon their arrival to U.S. from Mexico. Passengers can use
the dedicated SENTRI lanes and save considerable amount of time when returning
back home. You can find full information about SENTRI in our complete guide.
2. As a
SENTRI Member You Can Use Other Trusted Traveler Programs’ Benefits
As a SENTRI participant, you can take advantage of other Trusted
Traveler programs privileges when entering into the U.S. SENTRI membership
allows you to use NEXUS lanes and self-serve kiosk when arriving from Canada to
the States and Global Entry self-serve kiosks.
Keep in mind that Mexican nationals with SENTRI card are required to apply
for Global Entry through the Global Enrolment System (GOES).
3. You
Cannot Use Your SENTRI membership when Traveling to Canada!
Unfortunately, SENTRI and Global Entry are not recognized by Canada.
This means that SENTRI members will not be permitted to use NEXUS lanes when
ENTERING Canada. However, travelers are permitted to access the NEXUS
lanes when RETURNING to the United States. Click here to learn more about SENTRI goes and other
Trusted Travelers programs.
4. There
is No Need To Pay For TSA PreCheck
That’s right! If you have a SENTRI pass, you are eligible for TSAPreCheck. All you need to do is to include
your membership number (PASS ID) in the “Known Traveler Number” field when
booking your flight, or enter it into your frequent flyer account. The membership
number from your SENTRI card enables the TSA’s Secure Flight System to confirm that
you are a legitimate CBP Trusted Traveler.
5. Applying
For SENTRI is Easier Than You Think
The first step is to set up your own personal Global Online Enrollment
System (GOES) account regardless of your age. After you log in to your account,
you will need to fill in an online form and pay a non-refundable application
fee. If your application is conditionally approved by the CBP, you will receive
further instructions for scheduling an in-person interview with a CBP officer
in one of the many enrollment centers. You can find more detailed information
about the application process and the interview here.
6. Plan
Your Interview Well
Although the interview is not at all stressful or complicated, you need
to be prepared. Available dates for interview dates vary in different Enrolment
Centers and it may take weeks before you can attend a meeting with a CBP
officers. This means that you should plan your trip abroad accordingly. You can
also go directly to the enrollment centers and check if they have any available
time slots. You will not be asked any personal questions. You will be asked
about how often you visit the countries mentioned in your application and
whether you travel with friends and family. Then you will be fingerprinted and
asked to take a photo.
7. Don’t
Forget To Bring Your Documentation.
Here is what you will need on the day of
the interview:
·
Valid passport or other
document of citizenship and one other form of identification such as driver’s
license or ID (originals);
·
Lawful permanent residents should
bring their resident card;
·
Non U.S. citizens are required to present
originals of evidence of immigration admissibility
·
Vehicle registration and
evidence of U.S. automobile insurance;
·
A notarized authorization
letter ,if the vehicle is not registered in the applicant’s name;
·
Written authorization on
company letterhead for company owned vehicles;
8. You Can Register Your
Vehicle
If you are planning to apply for SENTRI, you can register your vehicle
without paying any additional fee. Individuals who decide to do this after the
initial application are required to pay a $42 non-refundable registration
fee. You can add or remove vehicle from
your SENTRI membership through your GOES account. Once your vehicle is
approved, you can use it immediately with your SENTRI pass. CBP does not
require any vehicle inspections.
9. SENTRI Works Pretty Simple and Fast
What makes the SENTRI process so efficient is the RFID technology that allows
CBP to automatically identify approaching travelers in SENTRI lanes. CBP
officers can then quickly verify the traveler’s identity. Then they will either
let you pass or will ask you to undergo further screening.
10. SENTRI
Membership Will You Cost You a Bit More
Sure, SENTRI comes with plenty of benefits, but is it worth the money?
The short answer is no. You are actually better off applying for Global Entry.
Like other CBP Trusted Travelers programs, it gives you access to both NEXUS
and SENTRI lanes when returning to the U.S. As a Global Entry member you are
also eligible for TSA PreCheck. SENTRI membership will cost you $197.25 for 5
years compared to $175 for five years for Global Entry and $125 for NEXUS.
