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Information recently gathered by Consortium journalists reveals that the U.S. Virgin Islands might just hold the key to quick appointments for the Global Entry Program, a fact that has often flown under the radar.
The Global Entry Centers located on the islands of St. Croix and St. Thomas are characterized as "Enrollment on Arrival" or EOA centers. This status differs from traditional enrollment centers, which explains why these particular centers are not listed on the Global Entry application website.
EOA centers, by their unique nature, offer a swift and efficient process that is especially beneficial for both residents of and travelers to the U.S. Virgin Islands. This efficiency is in stark contrast with the lengthier process common in stateside centers, a factor that has recently prompted applicants from areas like Tampa to flock to the islands.
Anyone interested in the Global Entry Program should visit the website to apply, ensuring they understand the qualifications and requirements. Being a low-risk program designed to expedite the travel process for pre-screened travelers, any previous arrests might affect the application.
A crucial step in the process is securing conditional approval before heading to the airport for the interview, a common feature of the EOA centers. The result of this interview generally comes in real-time, usually between 24 to 47 hours pending the results.
The program not only offers benefits such as TSA Pre-Check Eligibility and Real ID but also a host of other conveniences like skipping processing lines and avoiding paperwork. Global Entry members can enjoy expedited entry benefits in other countries, availability at major U.S. airports, and significantly reduced wait times.
Moreover, the Global Entry Program can quickly adapt to life changes. For example, if a member gets married and their last name changes, local Global Entry personnel at the USVI airports can access the system almost in real time to make the necessary changes, according to people familiar with the local process.
Once the application process is successfully completed, members receive a PassID, also known as the Known Traveler Number (KTN), located on the back of the Global Entry card. This PassID doubles as the Pre-Check ID, linking the benefits of both programs to one number.
This combination of efficiency, flexibility, and tangible benefits make the Global Entry Program in the U.S. Virgin Islands a surprisingly well-kept secret that could benefit travelers and residents alike.
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