How long does it take to establish an FTZ?

Applications to establish a zone are time consuming and expensive. New general-purpose zone applications take about 12 months and new subzone applications take about 12 months. However, this time can vary depending on the circumstances for individual applications. You can eliminate this lengthy approval time by locating in one of the existing FTZ sites. Since these sites are already approved, you would only need to apply for manufacturing authority (if needed) and activate the site with the U.S. Customs Service upon the Ports Authority's consent.