apec business travel card reference letter

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The APEC Business Travel Card was initiated by the Asia Pacific Economy Cooperation (APEC) to assist the business community who has trade relations within the APEC member countries.

APEC is an organization that formed in 1989 in creating wider economic cooperation in Asian Pacific region.

There are 21 countries in the organization that are Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, China , Chinese Taipei, Philippines, Hong Kong , Indonesia, Japan , Korea , Malaysia , Mexico ,New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru , Russia, Singapore, Thailand, United State of America and Vietnam.

Conditions of the applicant:

• KLSCCCI’s LIFE member – Must be a Malaysian citizen holding a valid passport – A frequent traveller to APEC countries. – Company’s Directors (eg: Executive Director, Managing Director) – Company’s senior position

All applicants are required to provide the following documents:

• original completed APEC Business Travel Card Application Form (Attach with blue background passport size photo – with collar/ Formal)
• a photocopy of Malaysian Passport (Biodata Page and Signature Page, more than 3 years validity)
• a photocopy of applicant’s IC (front and back)
• Copy of  passport inside pages  that have been stamped to prove frequent travel to APEC countries   (Minimum 5 times travel passport chops to APEC countries travel record (year 2023) to prove the applicant is a frequent traveller to APEC countries.)
• company’s supporting letter to KLSCCCI, ACCCIM, IMI, please refer sample letter ( Remarks: Applicant cannot sign the letter by themselves (another Director sign the letter)
• latest print out of Corporate Information of Companies Commission of Malaysia (Corporate Information)
• Job’s Description to prove personal / company actively involved in business that require to travel frequently to the overseas
• A copy of current APEC card for Re-application purposes only.
• A copy of appointment letter if applicant is not Director of the company.
• a fee of RM35.00 per application via cheque (make payable to “ The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia”)

Besides the above documents, applicants also have to prepare two(2) sets of photocopy of the above document (1) to (9) to KLSCCCI.

ACCCIM will collectively submit the ABTC applications from Constituent Chambers and dispatch to Immigration Department, get the reference number issued by immigration and e-mail to constituent chambers/ applicants. ACCCIM will send respective reminders to constituent chambers / applicants to check ABTC status after 3 months from date of submission to immigration.

Processing Time is 4-6 months depending on the approval given by member countries through the ABTC System (on-line).

Further Detail, please go to below link: >> Immigration Department of Malaysia Website (APEC Card)

Please click here to download APEC application form!

APEC Sample Letter  – New application (PDF)

APEC Sample Letter  – New application  (Word File)

APEC Sample Letter  – Re-application (PDF)

APEC Sample Letter  – Re-application (Word File)

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U.S. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Travel Card Program FAQs

General questions about the program, what is the u.s. apec business travel card program.

The U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program is a voluntary program to  facilitate  travel for U.S. citizens engaged in verified business in the APEC region and U.S. government officials engaged in APEC business. Participants must also be members of a CBP trusted traveler program.  The U.S. APEC Business Travel Card will enable access to fast-track immigration lanes at airports in foreign APEC member economies. 

What is APEC and who are APEC members?

APEC, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, is an economic forum whose primary goal is to support sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.  The United States is one of 21 APEC member economies, which include:  Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Thailand and Vietnam.

Program Benefits

What benefits does the u.s. apec business travel card afford me.

The U.S. APEC Business Travel Card will enable access to a dedicated fast-track lane for expedited immigration processing at participating foreign APEC member airports.  For a complete list of APEC Business Travel Card participating airports, visit  www.apec.org/Groups/Committee-on-Trade-and-Investment/Business-Mobility-Group/ABTC .

U.S. APEC Business Travel Card holders may also use the available Global Entry processing technology at participating airports upon their U.S. return.  View the list of  airports with Global Entry .   

Eligibility for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card

Am i eligible for the u.s. apec business travel card.

To be eligible for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program, you must meet three criteria:

• you must be a U.S. citizen;
• you must be an existing member in good standing or be approved for membership in a CBP trusted traveler program (SENTRI, NEXUS, or Global Entry) during the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card application process, , meaning they will go through a thorough vetting process including a review of all relevant national security and criminal databases prior to enrollment;
• you must be either a verified business person, or a U.S. government official, who is actively engaged in APEC business.

Who is a “verified business person” engaged in APEC business?

A “verified business person” engaged in APEC business  means a person engaged in the trade of goods, the provision of services or the conduct of investment activities in the APEC region.  Professional athletes, news correspondents, entertainers, musicians, artists or persons engaged in similar occupations are not considered to be verified business travelers engaged in business in the APEC region when they are traveling in such a capacity. 

A “U.S. government official” means a U.S. government official performing U.S. government activities that support the work of APEC.

The application fee for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card is $70.  The fee is non-refundable.  This fee is in addition to the fee for the selected CBP Trusted Traveler Program.

For example, a new applicant applying for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card with their Global Entry application would pay an application fee of $170.  This breaks down to $70 for the APEC Business Travel Card application and $100 for the Global Entry application.

Trusted Traveler Membership

How do i apply for membership in sentri, nexus, or global entry.

Apply for a CBP trusted traveler program on the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website,  https://ttp.dhs.gov .  You also must schedule an enrollment center interview via your TTP dashboard during the application process.  For more information about Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI go to the  Trusted Traveler Programs  page.

Applying for and Renewing the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card

How do i apply for the u.s. apec business travel card program.

You must apply on the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website,  https://ttp.dhs.gov .  This is the same website that is used to apply for CBP’s trusted traveler programs.  Check the box in TTP for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card. Then schedule a visit to any CBP trusted traveler enrollment center for an interview (if you are not already a CBP trusted traveler) and for electronic signature collection. 

However, if you are already a CBP trusted traveler, you can visit any CBP trusted traveler enrollment center for your interview/signature collection without an appointment.

Do I have to be a member of a CBP trusted traveler program to apply for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program?

All applicants for a U.S. APEC Business Travel Card must be existing members in good standing of a CBP trusted traveler program or apply and be approved for membership in a CBP trusted traveler program during the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card application process.  An applicant for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card may be a member of any of three CBP  Trusted Traveler Programs : Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI, meaning they will go through a thorough vetting process including a review of all relevant national security and criminal databases prior to enrollment.  An individual may apply either for a CBP trusted traveler program in advance or when applying for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card. 

Is it more advantageous for me to apply for a CBP trusted traveler program in advance or when I submit the application for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card?

Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. 

• If you apply for the  U.S. APEC Business Travel Card program  and the  CBP Trusted Traveler Program  concurrently, then you have to visit the enrollment center only once for the CBP trusted traveler interview and for signature collection.  If you first apply for a CBP trusted traveler program, you will need two trips to an enrollment center, once for the interview and again for signature collection.
• If you apply for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card and the CBP Trusted Traveler Program concurrently, you will be required to pay the applicable fees for both programs when you submit the applications.  All application fees are non-refundable.  Since membership to a CBP trusted traveler program is a prerequisite for membership in the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card program, if you are denied CBP trusted traveler program membership, you would be also be denied a U.S. APEC Business Travel Card and no refunds are available.  This could be avoided if you applied first for a CBP trusted traveler program.

How long will my U.S. APEC Business Travel Card be valid?

Prior to December 13, 2016 ABTC cards were issued with a validity of 3 years or until the expiration date of the card holder’s passport whichever occurred first.  However, U.S. issued APEC Business Travel Cards approved on or after December 13, 2016 are now valid for five years from the date of issuance, or until the expiration date of the card holder’s passport, whichever comes first. This change in validity does not apply to current U.S. APEC Business Travel Card holders, whose cards remain valid only until the date printed on their card.

How do I renew my U.S. APEC Business Travel Card?

To renew the  U.S. APEC Business Travel Card , submit a new U.S. APEC Business Travel Card application, pay the program fee, and meet all the eligibility criteria, including maintaining active membership in one of the CBP Trusted Traveler Programs (Global Entry, NEXUS or SENTRI).

Do I have to renew my CBP trusted traveler program membership if it is set to lapse prior to the expiration of my U.S. APEC Business Travel Card?

Yes. CBP may revoke your U.S. APEC Business Travel Card if you fail to renew or maintain your CBP trusted traveler program membership. 

If I am already a member of a CBP trusted traveler program, do I still have to visit an enrollment center to complete my U.S. APEC Business Travel Card application?

Yes, once CBP determines you are eligible to participate in the APEC program you must provide an electronic signature that will be printed on the APEC Business Travel Card. You can complete the interview/signature collection process via Enrollment on Arrival  when returning to the U.S. from an international flight or at any CBP Trusted Traveler enrollment center, no appointment necessary.   

If I am a U.S. citizen living abroad, can I complete my interview in the country in which I reside?

No. Interviews and signature collection for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card must be done at a CBP trusted traveler enrollment center and none are located outside of the United States and Canada. See a list of all CBP enrollment centers for Global Entry , NEXUS , and SENTRI . Alternatively, you can complete the signature collection process via Enrollment on Arrival when returning to the U.S. from an international flight.

How will I know when I am accepted into the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program and how will I receive my travel card?

If you are accepted into the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program, CBP will update your  TTP  account to reflect the acceptance and will mail the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card to the mailing address that you provided on your application.  CBP will mail the card to U.S. or international addresses, but not to post office boxes. 

Traveling with the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card

Can the u.s. apec business travel card be used in lieu of a visa in a foreign apec member economy.

No.  Foreign APEC member economies will not recognize the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card in lieu of a visa. The U.S. is a transitional member of APEC and does not reciprocate with other economies regarding full pre-clearance benefits to applicants.  As such, no countries are listed on the back of U.S. APEC Business Travel Cards and card holders are required to present any travel or identity documentation, such as a passport and visa (where applicable), required by the foreign APEC member economy.  If a  U.S. APEC Business Travel Card  holder does not conform to the foreign economy’s visa,  passport  or entry requirements, the card holder may be directed to a non-expedited lane or refused entry.   Check the entry requirements of the destination APEC member economy before travel. 

Can I use my U.S. APEC Business Travel Card for personal travel, such as vacation?

No. The APEC Business Travel Card is for members who travel frequently on short-term visits within the APEC region to fulfill business commitments. To use the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card, you must be traveling solely for business purposes to the foreign APEC economy.  

Is my spouse or child able to access the APEC lanes if they are traveling with me?

No. The U.S. APEC Business Travel Card is not transferable and applicable only to the card holder. Access to APEC lanes will not be extended to anyone traveling with the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card holder.

Revoking or Suspending Membership

In what situations will cbp revoke or suspend a u.s. apec business travel card program membership.

A U.S. APEC Business Travel Card membership may be suspended or revoked if CBP determines that:

• the individual provided false information in the application and/or during the application process;
• the individual failed to follow the program’s terms, conditions and requirements;
• the individual has been arrested or convicted of a crime or otherwise no longer meets the program eligibility criteria.

CBP can also revoke membership if the card holder is no longer a member of a CBP trusted traveler program.  A U.S. APEC Business Travel Card applicant or card holder who is denied, suspended, or removed will not receive an application fee refund.

If my U.S. APEC Business Travel Card expires or I am no longer eligible for a U.S. APEC Business Travel Card, does this affect my membership in a CBP trusted traveler program?

No.  You would still be considered a full participant in the CBP trusted traveler program for the remaining period of your membership.

Application or Membership Problems

Who can i contact if my u.s. apec business travel card application or membership is suspended, denied, revoked or canceled.

In the event you are denied or revoked from the Trusted Traveler Programs, you will be provided information in writing detailing the reason for this action. If you believe the decision was based upon inaccurate or incomplete information, you may request reconsideration through the Trusted Traveler Programs website.

Reconsideration Requests and attachments to the Ombudsman should be in English and must include the following details:

• Date of denial and denial reason(s) from the letter;
• Summary of information to further clarify a record or explain an incident or arrest;
• Court disposition documentation in PDF format for all arrests or convictions, even if expunged; and/or
• Other supporting documentation you feel may influence the Ombudsman's decision. Supported formats: PDF, DOCX, DOC, PNG, JPEG, and GIF.

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APEC Business Travel Card Requirements: A Complete Guide

• InvestinAsia Team
• May 31, 2024

The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a game-changer for business travelers in the APEC region. It streamlines the entry process into participating economies, making business travel not just easier but more efficient. If you’re a frequent business traveler in the APEC region, understanding the requirements and benefits of the ABTC is essential.

Also read: The Benefits of Holding an APEC Business Travel Card

Eligibility Criteria for ABTC

General Requirements

To be eligible for an ABTC, you must:

• Hold a valid passport from an APEC economy or be a permanent resident of Hong Kong, China.
• Engage in regular business travel throughout the APEC region.
• Have no criminal convictions.

Economy-Specific Requirements

Each APEC economy may impose additional criteria. For example, some might require proof of business activities or specific endorsements from business associations.

Senior Government Officials

Senior government officials and those actively engaged in APEC business activities may also qualify for the ABTC. The definition of “senior government official” varies by economy, so it’s important to check with your home economy.

Also read: APEC Business Travel Card Participating Countries List

Application Process for ABTC

• Single Application Process: Applicants submit a single application to their home economy. If approved, the details are shared with other participating economies for pre-clearance.
• Pre-Clearance: Each participating economy conducts its own assessment. Once all have granted pre-clearance, the applicant receives an ABTC listing the economies they can travel to.

Also read: Can I Use an APEC Business Travel Card for Personal Travel?

ABTC Requirements in Indonesia

Indonesia has specific requirements for ABTC applicants. Let’s dive into the criteria and process for Indonesian business travelers.

Eligibility Criteria for Indonesian Applicants

• Must be a bona fide businessperson with a position equivalent to a director or higher.
• Must lead a company equivalent to a limited liability company (PT), not other forms like CV or UD.
• Application must be manual with all required documents.

Documents Required for ABTC Application in Indonesia

• Application Form: Available for download at www.imigrasi.go.id
• Company Request Letter: Addressed to the Director of Immigration Traffic.
• Recommendation Letter: From a business/professional association.
• Bank Reference Letter: Showing the last three months’ balance, minimum IDR 500,000,000.
• Passport Copy: With at least two years of validity remaining.
• Evidence of Business Travel: Proof of business trips in the last six months.
• Police Clearance Certificate: Issued by at least the local police department (Polres/Polda).
• Copy of National ID Card: Must match the business profession stated.
• Old ABTC Card (if applicable): For renewals or replacements.
• Recent Passport-Sized Photos: Two colored photos with a red background.
• Immigration Fees
• Representative Documents: Authorization letter and ID for those applying on behalf of the applicant.

Additional Requirements for Applicants Residing Outside Indonesia

• Proof of Local Domicile: Copy of local residency documentation.
• Recommendation and Bank Reference Letters: Must be issued by local authorities.
• Legalization of Documents: Required by the Indonesian embassy in the applicant’s residing country.

Requirements for Card Reprint Due to Loss/Damage

• Application Letter ( Addressed to the Director of Immigration Traffic)
• Police Certificate ( For lost cards)
• Old Card ( For damaged cards)
• Passport Copy
• Applicant’s Signature
• Power of Attorney (If applicable)

Requirements for Card Reprint Due to Passport Change or Country Addition

• Reprint Application Letter: Addressed to the Director of Immigration Traffic.
• Copy of New Passport

Also read: APEC Business Travel Card Exclusive Lanes Airport List

Apply your APEC Business Travel Card through InvestinAsia (for Indonesian Citizens)

For a seamless ABTC application process, consider using InvestinAsia’s service. We have a trusted professional team that will assist you every step of the way. From gathering the necessary documentation to submitting your application, InvestinAsia ensures that your ABTC application is handled efficiently and accurately, saving you time and effort.

For Indonesian citizens, check out our services for APEC Business Travel Card Application .

Chat with us now for FREE consultation and special offer!

The APEC Business Travel Card is an invaluable tool for business travelers within the APEC region. It simplifies travel, saves time, and enhances business efficiency. By understanding and following the application requirements and processes, you can take full advantage of this beneficial program.

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Knowledge Article

APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) for U.S. citizens

The U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program (ABTC) is a voluntary program to facilitate travel for U.S. citizens engaged in verified business in the APEC region and U.S. government officials engaged in APEC business. To apply, please visit the  Trusted Traveler Program website.  If you are already a Trusted Traveler Program member, please see the following steps:

• select “ Apply” for APEC Business Travel Card on the Dashboard.
• Log in and complete the application process.
• Once approved, you must visit a CBP Trusted Traveler Enrollment Center for signature collection. No appointment is needed.

For a list of enrollment centers, visit the CBP   website. If you are a U.S. citizen, an active member of a CBP Trusted Traveler Program (NEXUS, Global Entry, or SENTRI), and a bona fide businessperson who is engaged in the trade of goods, the provision of services or the conduct of investment activities within the APEC region, you can apply for ABTC. Start by logging in to the TTP website. Then from the Dashboard, go to the Program Memberships section and click on the  Apply for APEC Business Travel Card  button. If you are not yet a member, you can apply for an APEC Business Travel Card simultaneously with your Trusted Traveler Program application. On the Program Selection step, be sure to select the box for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card in addition to the Trusted Traveler Program for which you want to apply. Complete the application and track your application status on the website. Scheduling an appointment to finalize the ABTC application is not mandatory but recommended. You can also finalize your ABTC enrollment on a walk-in basis at an Enrollment Center. If you choose to finalize your enrollment as a walk-in, be aware that scheduled appointments have priority, and you will be seen at the first available opportunity. Note: An ABTC expires in five years or when the passport associated to the ABTC application expires, whichever is sooner. The expiration date will be printed on the card.

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Application for APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC)

APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) provides business people streamlined entry to participating economies through a simple pre-clearance system that allows them, through a single application, to obtain a multiple short-term entry to participating APEC economies.

Participating economies in the ABTC Scheme currently includes Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, People’s Republic of China, the Philippines, Peru, Russia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Qualifications for an ABTC, among others:

• The company/business entity represented by the business person must be engaged in international trade, and selling of goods or services and investments between APEC economies
• Applicants must have never been charged or convicted of any criminal offense
• Vested with powers and prerogatives to lay down and execute management policies in furtherance of the primary business purpose of the business entity and hold specific authority to negotiate and commit to trade and investment activities (e.g. Chairman, CEO, President, Vice Presidents, Chief Financial Officer, Regional Head and Board members of a registered company); or,
• An official nominated by the CEO, President, or Regional Head, whose work is directly involved in the trade of goods, the provision of services, or the conduct of investment activities when travelling overseas.

Applications may be filed through any of the following Certifying Business Organizations (CBOs):

• Makati Business Club (MBC) 2/F, AIM Conference Center Benavidez St., Legaspi Village Makati City Telephone No.: (+632) 7751-1137, 7751-1138 Fax No.: (+632) 7750-7406, 7750-7405 Email:  [email protected]
• Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) 3rd Floor, Commerce and Industry Plaza (CIP) 1030 Campus Avenue cor Park Avenue McKinley Town Center, Fort Bonifacio Taguig City Telephone No.: (+632) 8846-8196 loc 113 Fax No.: (+632) 8846-8621 Email Address:  [email protected]
• Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT) International Trade Complex Roxas Blvd. cor Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue Pasay City Tel No.: (+632) 8230-5539 Email Addresses:  [email protected] ;  [email protected]
• Passport and ABTC details should be the same.
• Passports generally have to be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.
• Please report the loss immediately to ABTC-Philippines and apply for a new passport. Requirements for application include a Notarized Affidavit of Loss explaining the circumstances on how the passport was lost or stolen
• As soon as the new passport is issued, inform ABTC-Philippines of the new passport number and apply for the re-issuance of the card. Some economies do not accept cards bearing passport details different from the current passport

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APEC Business Travel Card

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travel Card is a scheme designed to facilitate the movement of business travellers between APEC member economies.

Singapore citizens may apply for the card if they do not have any past criminal convictions, and are:

• A bona fide business person representing an economically active business entity; or
• A member of a professional body (for example, a doctor, lawyer or accountant); or
• A public officer representing a ministry, government department, economic agency or statutory board, travelling in official capacity.

Singapore citizens with a valid passport and the issued APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) may use the ABTC as a multiple-journey visa that enables expedited immigration clearance through designated lanes in the following participating economies:

If you travel to the US or Canada with an ABTC, you will be subjected to the standard immigration clearance processes; however, you may use ‘fast track’ immigration lanes (currently designated for airline crew) at major international airports*.

*The designated airports in Canada are:

• Calgary International Airport
• Edmonton International Airport
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport
• Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
• Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport
• Toronto Pearson International Airport (Terminals 1 and 2)
• Vancouver International Airport
• Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport.

You will need to provide original documents and official translations (for documents in languages other than English), as well as copies of the documents for ICA to retain.

ICA accepts:

• Translations provided by the embassy of the country that issued the document
• Translations produced by a notary public in Singapore or the country that issued the document
• Privately created translations attested by the embassy of the country that issued the document, or notarised by a notary public in Singapore or the country that issued the document.

ICA does not endorse any private translation companies or entities. Insufficient documentation may result in non-acceptance of your application. You may be required to provide additional documents to support your application.

You will need the following to apply for an ABTC using e-Service :

• Your recent passport-sized, digital, colour photograph taken within the last three months. Please see Photo Guidelines for information on photo requirements.
• Scanned signature image file:- in JPEG format ('jpg' extension)  - Preferred dimension of 250 x 220 pixels  - File size of less than 60 KBytes
• Scanned copy of a letter of authorisation or support from the organisation:- in JPEG format ('jpg' extension) or PDF format  - File size of less than 1 MB ( sample supporting document )- If the letter of support is self-signed, please provide a scanned copy of your ACRA Business Profile
• For members of professional bodies who are applying for the ABTC in their personal capacity, a letter  stating the reason for application, along with proof of membership from the professional body must be provided
• If you are applying as part of an overseas company, you must submit a scanned copy of the company's overseas business registration certificate written in any of the four official languages (English, Mandarin, Tamil or Malay).
• Valid Singapore passport.

Login to our e-Service  using your Singpass 2FA to complete the online application form.

If your ABTC has expired or there is a change in your passport details, you would need to submit a new application online. If your passport is expiring, or you have a pending passport application, please apply for a new ABTC after you have collected your replacement passport.

A non-refundable S$100 fee is payable.

Payment can be made using either:

• Visa or MasterCard credit/debit card
• American Express (AMEX) credit card
• Internet Direct Debit (DBS/POSB, OCBC, UOB and Standard Chartered Bank internet banking accounts in Singapore)

You may wish to save your receipt after you have made payment, as it will not be emailed to you automatically.

If your ABTC application meets the eligibility for approval, it will be sent to the APEC economies for their pre-clearance. Majority of applications take up to four months for full preclearance. For your convenience, ICA will issue you the ABTC about four months from the date of your application, based on the APEC economies that have cleared your application. If there are economies that submit their returns later, ICA will incorporate these additional economies in a final ABTC that will be issued to you about nine months after your application. Please note that foreign APEC economies are unlikely to process your application beyond the nine-month mark.

If your ABTC application meets the eligibility for approval, it will be sent to the APEC economies for their pre-clearance. You may subsequently check the pre-clearance status of your application via https://www.abtc-aps.org/abtc-core/status/check.html , about 4 weeks after your initial ABTC application. When checking, do select “Singapore” as the Economy of Application and key in the applicant’s passport number (all CAPS).  A list of the member economies which have approved your travel will be displayed.

Related Links

• Advice for Singapore Citizens
• Apply/Renew a Singapore Passport
• Photo Guidelines
• Document: Specimen Letter for ABTC application (from supporting organisation) (PDF, 262KB)
• Document: Specimen Letter for ABTC application (for members of professional bodies) (PDF, 6KB)
• e-Service: ABTC
• Payment/Refund FAQs

APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) and Virtual ABTC for New Zealanders

The APEC Business Travel Card gives streamlined access to participating APEC economies for New Zealanders.

Processing time

Benefits of holding an apec business travel card.

• Express immigration clearance through special APEC lanes on arrival and departure.
• No requirement to apply for visas before travel.
• Multiple entries to participating economies.

New Zealand cardholders must

• Must be citizens of New Zealand and hold a current New Zealand passport.
• Travel frequently (on short notice and for short term stay) to conduct trade and investment activities in participating APEC economies.
• Must not have not been convicted of a criminal offence.

Members of APEC

The APEC Business Travel Card is recognised by participating APEC economies.

Members of APEC are:

Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, China. Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, The Philippines, Republic of Korea, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, United States of America, Viet Nam.

We have been advised Russia will not accept the virtual APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC). Travellers to Russia must obtain a suitable visa before they travel.

Supporting documents

All applications must include Criminal Record Check issued by the Ministry of Justice that is less than 6 months old at the time of your ABTC application.

Ministry of Justice website

You will also need to provide supporting documents highlighting your need for frequent business-related travel to APEC economies. A lack of sufficient evidence may result in your application being declined.

Supporting documents may include:

• supporting letter from your employer
• invoice from overseas suppliers
• contracts and agreements
• invitations to overseas trade shows, fairs or exhibitions
• any other third party documents identifying you, your business and your need to travel for business related purposes.

How to apply

Send your completed application form, supporting documents and application fee to us. We accept credit card and debit cards for payment.

You can email your digital photo to: 

[email protected]

APEC Business Travel Card application form PDF 497KB

Virtual ABTC application changes

The introduction of VABTC has made changes to the application process.

• You must provide an email address on your application form to receive approval notification.
• You no longer need to select priority economies for pre-clearance and an interim card is no longer needed. Once your application is approved and released for other economies to provide pre-clearance, the pre-clearance granted will appear on your Virtual ABTC. This means you can travel to those economies.

Getting your ABTC

If your application is approved you will receive a link to download the ABTC app as a virtual card.

Virtual ABTC will be displayed on the app as you log in. Similar to the physical ABTC, the Virtual ABTC must be used with your valid passport.

Virtual ABTC FAQ for cardholders | Asia-Pacific Economic Corporation

The Virtual ABTC FAQ Quick Reference User Guide | Asia-Pacific Economic Corporation

New Zealand cardholders transfer to the Virtual ABTC

New Zealand started issuing the Virtual ABTC in August 2021. Physical cards are no longer issued. This includes replacement for lost cards or passport updates.

If you hold a physical ABTC and have not heard from Immigration New Zealand about transfering to the Virtual ABTC email us. Provide your full name, date of birth, and a copy of your ABTC card or the associated NZ passport.

Email: [email protected]

More information & latest updates

For more information and updates go to the Virtual ABTC page of the APEC website.

Virtual ABTC | Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation

For more help contact:

[email protected]

Using the ABTC and Virtual ABTC

The ABTC and Virtual ABTC meets a business person's frequent short term travel needs and does not replace visa applications for infrequent travel.

A genuine business person is engaged in the trade of goods, the provision of services or the conduct of investment activities. It specifically does not include:

• the business person's dependent spouse and children
• people who wish to engage in paid employment or a working holiday
• professional athletes, news correspondents, entertainers, musicians, artists or people in similar occupations.

Card lifespan

APEC cards are valid for 5 years from the date the card is issued to you. The expiry date on your card will match the expiry date of your passport.

Your clearance will still be valid for 5 years. When you obtain a new passport, you must contact us with a scanned copy for us to update your details and issue you with an updated card.

New passport

If you get a new passport update your passport details by submitting a copy of your new passport bio-data page to us.

You will be notified when your new passport details have been updated on your VABTC, and you will need to login again using your new passport number to view this update.

Card renewal

All applications are treated as new applications. Cardholders cannot renew their APEC Business Travel Card.

You must submit a new application, photograph, and supporting documents to be assessed against eligibility criteria.

Criminal convictions

If you have a criminal conviction you will not be eligible for an APEC card.

Convictions concealed under the Criminal Records (Clean Slate) Act 2004 do not need to be disclosed when you apply for a card and will not affect your eligibility. These convictions will not be disclosed to other participating economies.

Criminal Records (Clean Slate) Act 2004 | New Zealand Legislation

Note that the Criminal Records (Clean Slate) Act 2004 does not apply when you fill out forms while travelling overseas. You will need to declare these convictions on your arrival card(s) overseas. If you do not meet that economy’s entry requirements, you may be refused entry.

You will need to check the entry requirements with that economy’s embassy or consulate before you travel.

You can visit this website for their contact details:

Foreign Representatives to New Zealand | MFAT

Pre-clearance from other economies

Once your card application is approved by Immigration New Zealand, it is up to the other economies to decide whether you will be granted entry pre-clearance and there is no set timeframe. You can only travel to the economies that have granted pre-clearance.

Checking the status of your application

You can use your application number (a five digit number at the top right hand corner of the acknowledgment letter and in the fee receipt) to monitor and track your application status online:

Application - Check Status - Search | ABTC System

• Next to Economy of Application, select New Zealand
• Enter your application number and click Search

Note you will not be able to track the status online until New Zealand has approved your application. You can then confirm the other member economies which have approved for travel for the selected APEC Business Travel Card.

This online status is updated daily.

Incorrect data

If your acknowledgement letter or APEC card includes incorrect data you must email us and tell us which information is incorrect.

Lost or stolen cards

Contact the police to report your card as lost or stolen.

Email us with the relevant information, detailing how and when your card was lost or stolen. We will issue you with a replacement virtual card. You will need to provide your passport number so we can easily identify you.

Address or email change

Email us to update your personal data.

Name change

You must submit a new APEC card application. We cannot change your name in the system once the application has been approved. Your passport details on your APEC card and the passport you travel with must match.

Holiday or business

APEC cards can only be used for business purposes and cannot be used as a holiday, private, recreational or sporting visa purpose.

If you are not from a visa waiver country or terrirtory, you will need to apply for a visitor visa in order to travel to New Zealand for a holiday.

Visa-waiver countries and territories

Apply for a visitor visa

NZeTA exemption

When you travel to New Zealand for business purposes with an APEC card, you are considered to hold a visa for New Zealand. You are exempt from holding an NZeTA.

Travelling for other purposes (such as tourism), requires an NZeTA or visitor visa.

Information about NZeTA

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Online Application for APEC Business Travel Card

Who can use this service.

If you are a Hong Kong permanent resident and are eligible, you can use this online service to submit application for APEC Business Travel Card (online service only available in English version).

Eligibility Criteria

To find out if you are eligible to apply for APEC Business Travel Card, please visit this website .

Documents to be Submitted Online

Documents marked with * are mandatory.

Please note that in the online application process, the applicant will be required to fill in an online application form and sign to confirm that all information given in the online application form is correct, complete and true. To facilitate our referral of your application to other participating APEC economies, please complete this application form in English.

File Formats Before uploading the required documents, you will need to scan them in one of the following formats:

• Other documents

File type: JPEG, PDF, GIF, PNG or TIF (RAW, LZW, JPEG, CCITT-G4) File size: 5Mbytes or below for each file Colour depth: Grayscale (for documents without photos)                        Colour (for documents with photos)

How to Start

Once you have prepared your supplementary documents, you can access the online service through the following link.

To refer your application to other participating APEC economies, this online application form is in English only.

Please ensure that the information you provide is correct. Incorrect information may render your submission invalid.

Supplementary Document Submission

If you have submitted an application for APEC Business Travel Card and received a notification letter from the Immigration Department asking you to provide supplementary documents, you can use the online submission service. The following link will take you to further information on how to submit your supplementary documents online.

Assistance and Further Information

If you need technical assistance in using the online service, you can call the Immigration e-Services Hotline at (852) 3128 8668 between 7 am and 11 pm daily.

For general enquiries, please call (852) 2824 6111 during office hours (from 8:45 am to 5:15 pm, Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 12 noon on Saturday, except public holidays), send a fax to (852) 2877 7711 or send an email to [email protected] .

Further information on the online service is available in a set of helpful frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Speed your way through customs in Asia: Guide to the APEC travel card

U.S. citizens who work in the Asia -Pacific Economic Cooperation region may be eligible for a specific travel card that can fast-track them through the immigration processing at participating airports.

Here's everything you need to know about using an APEC Business Travel Card.

What is an APEC Business Travel Card, and where can I use it?

The U.S. APEC Business Travel Card Program is available to U.S. citizens and government officials engaged in business in the APEC region; APEC is an economic forum supporting free trade and economic prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. The group is comprised of 21 member countries, including the U.S.

APEC Business Travel Cardholders can access a dedicated fast-track lane for expedited immigration processing at the major international airports of each APEC country, specifically the U.S., Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, China, Hong Kong China, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

U.S. citizens with an APEC Business Travel Card may also use the card to enter the U.S. via Global Entry for expedited clearance through automated kiosks at 75-plus airports .

Who is eligible for an APEC Business Travel Card?

APEC Business Travel Cards are for U.S. citizens and government officials "actively engaged" in APEC business. More specifically, they need to be "a verified business person" involved in the "trade of goods, the provision of services or the conduct of investment activities in the APEC region," per U.S. Customs and Border Protection .

Note: These terms do not include professional athletes, news correspondents, entertainers, musicians, artists or persons engaged in similar occupations.

Additionally, you must also be a member (in good standing) of a CBP trusted traveler program — specifically Global Entry , Sentri or Nexus — to be eligible.

How do I apply for an APEC Business Travel Card?

You can apply for an APEC Business Travel Card on the Trusted Traveler Program website . You can apply for the other trusted traveler programs on the website as well.

"Check the box in TTP for the U.S. APEC Business Travel Card," according to CBP . "Then schedule a visit to any CBP trusted traveler enrollment center for an interview (if you are not already a CBP trusted traveler) and for electronic signature collection."

It should take approximately 10 minutes to complete the application.

Existing CBP-trusted travelers don't need to schedule an appointment and can instead visit any enrollment center to complete the interview process.

Stand-alone applicants should expect to pay a nonrefundable $70 application fee. Those applying for the card and Global Entry would pay $170. However, since Global Entry prices will soon increase , they will pay if they apply after the beginning of October.

Bottom line

Though only useful for a very specific group of travelers, U.S. citizens who participate in APEC business should consider applying for an APEC Business Travel Card if they would like expedited entry back into the U.S.

Related reading:

• 7 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear
• 14 things to know about Global Entry
• When and how to renew your passport, according to the State Department
• You can now renew your passport online
• All you need to know about Enhanced Drivers Licenses

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Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC)

Apec business travel card (abtc) information about asia-pacific economic cooperation (apec) business travel card (abtc).

Notification for foreign APEC Business Travel Card applicants:

• If you plan to visit Japan in the near future before ABTC is approved, please consider applying for a visa and contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate nearest to your location.
• Once approved, the ABTC allows you to visit Japan for short-term business purposes with a maximum of up to 90 days at a time.
• ABTC can only be used for business purposes and cannot be used for any other purposes, including holiday, private, transit, recreational or sports purposes. If you are not from a visa waiver country or region, you will need to apply for a visa for your holiday travel to Japan.

Benefits of ABTC:

• No need to apply for visa before business travel.
• No limit on the number of times it can be used within the valid period.
• Maximum validity period of five years.
• Use of ABTC fast-track entry and exit lanes at major international airports. (Narita Airport (NRT), Haneda Airport (HND), Kansai Airport (KIX), Chubu Airport (NGO), New Chitose Airport (CTS), Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and Naha Airport (OKA))
• If you have an inquiry regarding Japan’s pre-clearance, you may contact the Japan ABTC Team only by email at [email protected] . Please be sure to include your name, ABTC application number and passport number in your email. Please note that we cannot respond on the status of pre-clearance including the expected date of approval.