INS Extends Enrollment Period for SENTRI
For Immediate Release
U.S. Department of Justice
Immigration and
Naturalization Service
Press Release
February 28, 2003
INS Extends Enrollment Period for SENTRI
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a move that will benefit thousands of dedicated commuter lane users along the U.S.- Mexico border, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) has extended the enrollment period for SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) participants from one to two years. The change takes effect today.
“This is a milestone for the SENTRI program,” said Acting INS Commissioner Michael Garcia. “Extending the enrollment period will mean greater convenience, fewer processing delays, and cost savings for SENTRI applicants. It is also an important step forward in our effort to refine and expand the SENTRI program.”
SENTRI is an automated system that enables enrolled motorists at selected land border ports to complete the inspections process and enter the United States more expediently using dedicated commuter lanes. As part of the enrollment process, SENTRI participants undergo an extensive screening that includes law enforcement and criminal background checks. By encouraging low-risk travelers to participate in programs like SENTRI, authorities can focus more attention and resources on unknown or higher-risk travelers.
While today’s action will eliminate the need for participants to reapply every year, the INS will continue to perform regular law enforcement queries on SENTRI participants to ensure the integrity of the program.
Currently, there are more than 42,000 travelers participating in the SENTRI program along the U.S.-Mexico border. Interest in the program rose dramatically in the wake of 9/11, leading to increased processing times for SENTRI applicants. Requiring participants to re-enroll every year added to the backlog.
In addition to reducing the processing time for SENTRI applications, the extended enrollment period will also save participants money because the enrollment fee, which is not increasing, will only be due every two years. For current SENTRI users the enrollment period will be valid for two years from the date of the last enrollment.
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