Talks aimed at making the Bermuda pre-clearance process “safer, smoother and more traveller friendly” have taken place between the Government and US Customs.

Hosted by the United States Consulate General, a meeting this month brought together the Ministry of Transport and a visiting delegation from US Customs and Border Protection.

A ministry statement said that a key focus of the meeting was the US pre-clearance process, which allows travellers to complete US customs and immigration checks before leaving Bermuda.

“The group discussed ways to modernise the pre-clearance process, and make it safer, smoother and more traveller-friendly,” it said.

The Minister of Transport, Wayne Furbert, noted: “This meeting was an important step forward in improving the travel experience for Bermudians and visitors alike.

“By working closely with US Customs and Border Protection, we are ensuring that Bermuda remains a world-class travel destination.”

Acting US Consul General Vanja Vukota added: “Expanding pre-clearance will improve collaboration and co-ordination between CBP and Bermudian law enforcement, provide an improved experience for all travellers, and allow for deeper ties between the people of the United States and Bermuda.”

Glenn Rogers, the US Customs and Border Protection pre-clearance director, added: “This partnership facilitates improving pre-clearance’s foundation in Bermuda for long-term co-operation, benefiting our citizens and fostering collaboration between the US and Bermuda.”