The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a travel document issued by the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) that facilitates business travel within the member economies. The card is available to citizens and permanent residents of participating countries, who are also employed in eligible positions in these countries.
The ABTC program was created to reduce the time and cost associated with business travel between the 21 APEC economies. It allows cardholders to enter participating economies without long queues at immigration, quickly complete customs clearance, and gain access to fast-track lanes for security checks.
In order to apply for an ABTC, applicants must meet certain criteria. They must be employed in an eligible position, such as a senior executive or specialist in their field of expertise.
The applicant must also have a valid passport from one of the APEC member countries. Additionally, applicants are required to submit proof of employment and a letter of recommendation from their employer.
Benefits
The primary benefit of having an ABTC is that it allows cardholders to travel freely between APEC member countries without having to obtain additional visas or permits. This saves both time and money as travellers can enter participating countries without long queues at immigration or expensive visa fees.
In addition, the ABTC grants holders access to fast-track lanes at airports and other ports of entry which reduces waiting times significantly. It also provides duty-free shopping privileges at select stores in some APEC economies.
Conclusion
The APEC Business Travel Card offers numerous benefits for those who travel frequently between its 21 member economies. By providing access to fast-track lanes and duty-free shopping privileges, it makes travelling easier and more convenient for those who qualify for its programme. For eligible citizens and permanent residents of participating countries, it is a great way to save both time and money when travelling for business purposes.