Croatian citizens can now travel to the US even more easily, after Croatia became a full partner in the Global Entry program on Thursday, announced the Croatian Ministry of the Interior and the US Customs and Border Protection Agency (CRB).

Membership allows low-risk travelers with prior approval to enter the US faster through 77 airports in that country.

Those interested in a business or tourist trip to the US can apply for Global Entry, which currently has ten million members.

Croatia thus joined the group of 14 partner countries: Bahrain, Argentina, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Panama, South Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Brazil and Great Britain.

According to the CRB, those who sign up go through strict screening and must complete an interview, and once they become a member, additional screening is possible upon entry into the US. Violation of the program's terms and conditions will result in the termination of membership privileges, the US agency warned.

"Today's announcement symbolizes our countries' efforts and commitment to fostering relationships that facilitate trade, but just as importantly, strengthen our security while benefiting our citizens," said Matthew Davies, senior CRB official.

"This partnership enables low-risk Croatian citizens with prior approval to apply for membership in the Global Entry program and thus become trusted travelers with the goal of faster entry into the United States for tourism or business purposes. Thus, citizens of the Republic of Croatia can start submitting requests to join the Global Entry program from March 16, 2023.

Croatia's full partnership in the Global Entry program followed shortly after Croatia joined the US visa waiver program in October 2021, which allows Croats to travel to the US visa-free for up to 90 days.

The ceremony on the occasion of Croatia's entry into Global Entry should be held in Washington in the coming weeks.