Published on Friday, December 12, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves-Robles has become the first Costa Rican citizen to receive approval for the U.S. Global Entry trusted traveler program.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said during a press conference that Chaves-Robles was required to complete the same interview process as all other applicants to obtain the credential.

Costa Rican citizens are now eligible to apply for Global Entry, a program that streamlines immigration procedures and speeds entry into the United States for preapproved, low-risk travelers, the Presidential House announced.

 

With the agreement, Costa Rica joins a select group of countries whose citizens have access to the program, which U.S. authorities say enhances both efficiency and security at U.S. ports of entry.


According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, applicants are subject to extensive and recurring background checks conducted by both U.S. and Costa Rican authorities. The process also requires an in-person interview with a CBP officer before enrollment. Applicants must pay a $120 fee at the time of application.


“To maintain low-risk traveler status, Global Entry members must not violate any of the program’s terms and conditions,” CBP states on its website. “Program violations will result in appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.”

Authorities said the Global Entry program is intended to strengthen border security while also supporting trade, tourism and cultural exchange between the two nations.

The agreement enabling Costa Rica’s participation was signed in June 2025 by Noem and Chaves as part of a series of bilateral accords reached during Noem’s official visit to Costa Rica.

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What other support should the U.S. provide to Costa Rican tourists? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com