Absolutely, Your Child Requires Their Own Global Entry Membership — Here's How to Apply

Families with children might question the value of securing Global Entry for their kids. For those who travel internationally, the answer is a resounding yes, as the convenience of speeding through customs post-international travel is priceless. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about obtaining Global Entry for kids, including ways to get it at no cost.

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program that provides pre-approved travelers with an expedited screening process upon their arrival in the U.S. after international trips. Managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), it’s open to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain foreign nationals. Global Entry is accessible to both adults and children, and each individual must have their own membership, no matter their age.

Starting October 1, 2024, the Global Entry fee structure will undergo a change — the application fee will rise from $100 to $120. The positive news for families is that when this adjustment takes effect, children will not have to pay the application fee if a parent or legal guardian is already a Global Entry member or if they are applying simultaneously.

Do children need to have their own Global Entry membership? 

Global Entry is often mistakenly associated with TSA PreCheck, another Trusted Traveler Program that facilitates faster screening at TSA airport security checkpoints. However, these two programs serve different purposes. Unlike TSA PreCheck, Global Entry mandates that kids under 18 obtain their own membership to access the expedited lanes; they cannot simply accompany a parent with Global Entry.

Parents are not required to hold Global Entry membership for their children to enroll in the program, but all kids under 18 must have consent from their parent or legal guardian to apply for Global Entry. There is no minimum age limit — even infants need a Global Entry membership to utilize the expedited lanes with their parents. 

What does the Global Entry application process look like for children?

The Global Entry application process for kids is quite similar to that for adults. To apply for Global Entry, children must create a Global Online Enrollment System account on the CBP website. This account is solely for the child — they cannot utilize their parent’s account.

A separate application is required for each child seeking Global Entry. After completing the application and paying the nonrefundable fee (if applicable), the child’s account will be assessed, and a background check will be conducted. According to CBP, 80 percent of applications are processed within two weeks, while some may take as long as 12 months.

Once the account receives conditional approval, an interview must be arranged. Interview slots can fill up months ahead, and many states have only one or two Global Entry Enrollment Centers, making this process potentially lengthy. If multiple children are applying for Global Entry, each must secure their own interview appointment.

To speed up the process, children with conditional approval can utilize Enrollment on Arrival (EoA). This option allows applicants to conduct their Global Entry interview at designated airports upon arriving from an international flight. You can schedule a backup interview and use EoA if the chance presents itself. If you complete an EoA interview, your original interview will be automatically canceled.

After a child's application is approved, they will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and can start enjoying the benefits right away. They will also get a Global Entry card by mail, which must be activated online. This card is not required for international flights — it's only necessary for entering the U.S. via SENTRI or NEXUS lanes at land borders.

Is it possible for your child to obtain Global Entry at no cost?

Beginning October 1, 2024, if a parent or guardian is already a Global Entry member or is applying at the same time as their child, there will be no application fee for the child. If a child applies independently, the fee is $120 for a five-year membership. This fee is nonrefundable, even if the application is rejected. 

Fortunately, families can easily get that fee reimbursed if they have the right card. Many of today’s top travel rewards credit cards offer a Global Entry fee credit that covers the entire amount. A parent can use the application fee credit from their card to pay for the Global Entry enrollment fee of any family member. Many of these cards also provide additional benefits that enhance family travel, such as airport lounge access and travel insurance.

Although applying for Global Entry might seem inconvenient initially, frequent travelers will find the benefits worthwhile. Not only does it save time and reduce stress when clearing customs after international travel, but Global Entry membership also includes TSA PreCheck (usually $78 for five years; $70 for online renewal), which speeds up security checks for domestic flights.

What can kids expect during their Global Entry interview? 

Many kids might feel anxious about the Global Entry interview, but the reality is that the process is quite straightforward. 

Jamie Weitl, CEO of Pineapple Escapes, describes how quick the experience was. “We visited a local airport, and they asked our kids their names and snapped their pictures. It was really simple.”

Similar to adults, it’s essential for kids to arrive early for their Global Entry interview to avoid the risk of being late and missing their appointment.

A parent or legal guardian must be present with the minor during the Global Entry interview (this individual doesn’t need to hold a Global Entry membership). The applicant must bring a valid passport (if multiple, all should be taken to the interview) and a permanent resident card, if applicable. The accompanying adult should also carry their passport and any additional documents, such as proof of residency, as specified in the application.

The interview itself typically lasts only about 15 minutes or less. The CBP officer will confirm the identities of both the child and the parent, taking photos in the process. Depending on the child’s age, fingerprints may also be collected. While adults might be asked about their application and travel intentions, these questions may be bypassed for younger children.