How Do I Apply for an APEC Business Travel Card?

Applying for an APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) varies slightly by country, but the general process is similar across participating APEC economies.

🇺🇸 For U.S. Citizens: Step-by-Step

The United States is a transitional member of the ABTC program. That means U.S. cardholders can use expedited APEC lanes, but do not receive visa-free entry to other countries.

Here’s how to apply:

1️⃣ Be a Global Entry Member

You must be enrolled in Global Entry (a U.S. Trusted Traveler program) to be eligible for the ABTC.

• If you’re not a member yet, apply at: ttp.dhs.gov
• Global Entry includes a background check, fee, and interview

2️⃣ Apply Online for ABTC

Once you're approved for Global Entry:

• Log into your Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account at ttp.dhs.gov

• Select “APEC Business Travel Card”

  Fill out the application and provide:

  • Employment and travel information
  • Business sponsor contact details
• Pay the $70 application fee

3️⃣ Wait for Approval

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will review your application
• Processing typically takes 4–8 weeks, but may vary
• If additional information is needed, CBP may contact you or your sponsor

4️⃣ Receive Your Card

• If approved, your physical ABTC will be mailed to you
• The card is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires
• U.S. does not yet support a digital ABTC, so you must carry the physical card

For Applicants Outside the U.S.

Citizens of other APEC economies (e.g., Australia, Singapore, Japan) can apply through their respective immigration or border authority websites. Most offer both physical and digital ABTCs, and provide visa-free entry to other participating economies.

Search for “[Your Country] APEC Business Travel Card application” or visit your immigration department’s website.

✅ Checklist Before You Apply

• ✅ Valid passport
• ✅ Global Entry membership (for U.S. applicants)
• ✅ Legitimate business travel history in APEC countries
• ✅ Business sponsor who can verify your travel purpose
• ✅ Willingness to undergo a background check