5 days ago
New relief for international travelers to the U.S. amid Trump-era restrictions
As immigration controls tighten under the Trump administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has released a series of announcements that could make travel easier for international visitors this summer.
The federal agency is implementing several measures to streamline the entry process at U.S. airports ahead of a busy season that is expected to bring millions of travelers from around the world.
CBP is actively encouraging international passengers to take advantage of mobile tools designed to make their arrival to the U.S. faster and more efficient.
CBP technology streamlines entry process for international travelers
'CBP is committed to enhancing national security while streamlining lawful travel,' said CBP Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino.
'By leveraging advanced technologies and mobile applications, we are transforming inspections at airports into a seamless, touchless process, enabling faster risk identification and efficient processing of legitimate visitors,' she added in a news release.
This summer also marks the debut of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, scheduled from June 14 to July 13. The tournament, hosted for the first time in the United States, is expected to draw millions of international visitors — alongside the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Together, the events could bring in up to 10 million foreign travelers, according to CBP estimates.
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CBP's modernization efforts include Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), which uses auto-capture photo technology to conduct a complete customs assessment: biometric verification, eligibility checks and enforcement review — before a traveler even meets a CBP officer.
Another option, Seamless Border Entry (SBE), combines the Trusted Traveler Programs framework with 'On the Move' technology. This system allows Global Entry members to move through inspection with little or no interaction with a CBP officer, depending on officer discretion, authorities said.
SBE is currently available at select airports, including Miami International, Los Angeles International, Washington Dulles, Chicago O'Hare, Newark Liberty, George Bush Intercontinental and Toronto Pearson.
CBP also offers a suite of free mobile applications, available through the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or via the CBP Mobile Apps Directory. These tools allow eligible travelers to submit passport information in advance and speed up their inspection upon arrival.
U.S. entry requirements in 2025: What visa waiver travelers need to know
Travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) can use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) mobile app to submit applications via smartphones, tablets, or other mobile devices. ESTA is also available online for those unable to download the app.
Regardless of how travelers enter the U.S., CBP reminds all visitors that they must meet legal requirements, present proper documentation, undergo background checks and inspections, and comply with the terms of their visa or authorization.
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'If statutes or visa terms are violated, travelers may be subject to detention and removal,' the agency warns. 'A visa is a privilege, not a right, and only those who respect our laws and follow the proper procedures will be welcomed.'
Throughout the Trump administration, U.S. embassies and federal agencies have reiterated the importance of adhering to the 90-day limit allowed under ESTA.
Domestically, CBP continues to enforce stricter identity controls for U.S.-bound travelers through the implementation of REAL ID, which went into effect on May 7, 2025, for boarding international flights.
