Jan 19 2005

U.S. To Implement Frequent Traveler Program at JFK Airport

Tom Ridge, the Secretary of Homeland Security, announced this week that the U.S. will now start using enhanced technology to better expedite security checks and immigration processing for pre-screened, international visitors at the JFK International Airport in New York City. "These efforts demonstrate again that we can design border security initiatives to both enhance homeland security and facilitate global commerce and travel," said Secretary Ridge."

The U.S. is also partnering with the Netherlands to develop an international registered traveler program. "A U.S.-Dutch pilot will bring the extensive experience the Dutch government has had with expedited travel security initiatives together with U.S. efforts," said Ridge, "paving the way toward a truly international registered traveler program that enhances security for all travelers."

Ridge also stated that the success of the US-VISIT program, especially the biometric portions of the program, "has given us the confidence to move forward with voluntary expedited travel programs using biometrics."

U. S. citizens and legal permanent residents and foreign visitors who regularly travel to the U.S. are be eligible for the program, after a successful background check.