Customs issues strong warning: Travelers in Florida could lose these ‘privileges’
A new warning from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) was issued this week after an incident involving a traveler at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
The federal agency reminded the public that it can revoke the “privilege” of expedited entry for certain “trusted” international travelers if they violate the rules of a popular program that was expanded and promoted during the Trump administration.
This program, which benefits travelers from about 20 countries, recently added El Salvador, as a recognition by the U.S. government of president Nayib Bukele’s support for large-scale deportation operations.
Warning after Fort Lauderdale airport incident
The CBP alert was prompted by a recent case at Fort Lauderdale airport, where a traveler enrolled in the Global Entry program attempted to bring in five grams of MDMA, a synthetic drug also known as ecstasy.
“A (former) Global Entry traveler at FLL International thought 5 grams of MDMA could slip past CBP. Our K9 squad had other plans,” wrote Carlos C. Martel, CBP’s Director of Field Operations in Miami and Tampa, on social media.
The agency shared the message with a clear warning: “Take note. Your Trusted Traveler privileges can and will be revoked if you fail to follow the law.”
What is Global Entry and how you can lose it
The Global Entry program is part of the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) offered by the U.S. government to facilitate the entry of low-risk travelers.
Applicants for Global Entry undergo rigorous and recurring screening by U.S. authorities, including an in-person interview with a CBP officer before initial enrollment. Membership costs $120, is applied for online, and is valid for five years.
Benefits include access to TSA PreCheck, which allows faster security screenings at U.S. airports.
However, CBP warns: “To maintain low-risk traveler status, Global Entry members must not violate any of the program’s terms and conditions. Violations will result in appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.”
It’s important to note that Global Entry membership does not exempt travelers from visa requirements to enter the United States.
