Good news for Aussie travelers as well as those from New Zealand, Canada, and the UK: If you’re sick of long lines at U.S. airports, there’s a new fast-lane option available to more of us than ever before. As of December 2025, CLEAR+ — the popular identity verification program — has expanded access to eligible citizens from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand.
What is CLEAR+?
CLEAR+ is a membership-based service that uses biometric technology (like your eyes and fingerprints) to verify your identity and let you skip the regular ID check at airport security. You’ve likely seen the dedicated CLEAR lanes at major U.S. airports — often next to (or in combination with) TSA PreCheck or standard screening.
With CLEAR+, you still go through the physical security checkpoint, but you get to bypass the initial queue and ID screening, meaning you get to your gate faster — especially helpful for frequent flyers and expats who travel often between the U.S. and home.
What’s changed for those who aren't from the US?
Previously, CLEAR+ was limited to U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents (green card holders), but now, citizens of Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand are eligible to enroll, provided they meet certain requirements and complete the in-person verification process.
This follows a growing recognition of close partnerships between the U.S. and these countries — something we’ve also seen recently with Australians becoming eligible for Global Entry.
How much does CLEAR+ cost?
CLEAR+ membership costs $209 USD per year, but they run ongoing promotions and allow you to add family members at a discounted rate. Some credit cards (like certain AmEx and Chase Sapphire cards) even cover the full cost of membership as a benefit, so it’s worth checking if you’re already eligible through your bank.
How do you enroll?
You can start online at clearme.com, and complete your registration at one of their airport kiosks. As part of the process, you’ll need:
- A valid passport (from AU, CA, UK, or NZ)
- To pass a background check and identity verification
- To be flying from a supported U.S. airport
The program is currently limited to travel within and departing from the United States.
Should you use CLEAR+?
If you’re flying domestically in the U.S. even just a few times a year, CLEAR+ can save you significant time — especially at busy hubs like LAX, JFK, SFO, ATL, and ORD. If you pair it with TSA PreCheck, you’re looking at the fastest possible route through security, which is perfect if you’re racing to catch a connection or just hate waiting.
For expats and frequent Aussie visitors, this is a welcome addition to the travel toolkit. It is by no means essential, but if you can afford the convenience then it's absolutely worth it.
More good news for Aussies:
Don’t forget — Global Entry is now available to Australians too, which speeds up your entry into the U.S. when you arrive from overseas. With CLEAR+ for takeoff and Global Entry on arrival, the whole U.S. airport experience just got a lot smoother for Australians.
Thanks to Jen K. for the tip!
