Cost to skip the line at passport checks more than DOUBLES

The cost of services that speed up passport checks at US borders are to rise.

Fees for the  three trusted traveler programs - the hugely popular Global Entry plus Nexus and Sentri - now all cost $120 from October 1.

Previously, all had different fees - which had not been increased in 15 years, the US Customs and Border Protection agency said.

Most affected is Nexus, the program to speed up travel between the US and Canada. The cost will more than double from $50.

Global Entry, launched in 2008 and with tens of millions of users, will rise from $100. It can be used by Americans and select other nationalities to avoid waiting in line at airports. 

Sentri, which allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States at Southern land border ports, will move from an 'a la carte' fee structure to the flat $120.

Under 18s will not have to pay when a parent is already a member or also joins one of the programs. 

Meanwhile, Americans who travelling to Europe face a new charge.

Last month, it was announced that Americans travelling to the UK will have to pay a $13.05 (£10) fee to enter the country from next year. 

The new electronic travel authorization (ETA) will be digitally linked to passports. 

It  will be valid for multiple trips over two years for stays up to six months at a time, or until the holder's passport expires. 

US citizens can apply for an ETA starting on November 27, 2024 and should expect a response within at least three business days. 

Each traveler is required to have their own ETA, including all children. 

'Everyone wishing to travel to the UK – except British and Irish citizens – will need permission to travel in advance of coming here,' according to the government. 

Seema Malhotra, the United Kingdom's minister for migration and citizenship, said the new changes are part of a 'worldwide expansion' of the program. 

The country first introduced the ETA last year for visitors from seven Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and United Arab Emirates. 

The UK also plans to expand ETAs to citizens of other countries and territories, including Canada, Japan, Mexico and Australia. 

In August the European Union announced that Australian citizens would have to pay a new $11.50 application fee to travel to the continent in 2025.

Previously Australians could travel visa-free to the history and culture-rich continent, but that's not the case anymore.

The program starts in the first half of 2025.