WASHINGTON, Dec. 16, 2015 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bern. Switzerland and the USA on Wednesday signed a declaration of intent on Switzerland's participation in the United States' Global Entry programme. In future, Swiss citizens who qualify will also be able to take part in the programme and thus benefit from simplified entry procedures at American airports.

In 2012, the USA offered Switzerland the opportunity to participate in its Global Entry programme for simplified entry to the USA. The programme would allow registered Swiss travellers to enter the USA more quickly and easily after being subjected to advance security clearance by the authorities in Switzerland and the USA.

A study commissioned by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) in 2013 revealed that Swiss business people who travel frequently are most likely to be interested in the Global Entry programme. The study suggested that up to 2000 people may wish to participate. The main benefit of Switzerland's participation lies in the promotion of its business and bilateral relations with the USA.

In the declaration of intent signed by the SEM and US ambassador Suzan LeVine, Switzerland and the USA express their desire to expand the US Global Entry programme to include Swiss citizens.

The Federal Office of Police (fedpol) will be responsible for the practical aspects of implementing the Global Entry programme, and in particular for arranging the security clearance procedures in Switzerland.

CONTACT: Lea Wertheimer
         State Secretariat for Migration
         Switzerland
         
         lea.wertheimer@sem.admin.ch

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