Thinking About Global Entry? Here’s What You Should Know First

After a long international flight, few things are more exasperating (or stressful, especially with a tight connection) than waiting in a lengthy immigration line. Fortunately, there’s a way to expedite your journey through customs.

Introducing: Global Entry. This U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) trusted traveler program enables pre-approved travelers to swiftly navigate border security, typically in just a few minutes. Here’s everything you need to know about Global Entry.

What is Global Entry, and how does it function?

Global Entry is a fast-track screening initiative created by the CBP for travelers arriving in the United States from overseas. Participants in the program can proceed directly to the Global Entry kiosks (bypassing the standard immigration line where you must interact with an agent), where they are quickly verified and allowed to pass through customs. Most major U.S. airports now utilize facial recognition kiosks, akin to those used by Clear, for traveler identification, although some may still require a passport scan. In any case, processing usually takes only a couple of minutes.

Over 50 U.S. airports offer Global Entry, along with more than a dozen international airports, such as Abu Dhabi International Airport, Dublin Airport, and Toronto Pearson International Airport. These locations also feature preclearance, allowing travelers to skip TSA inspections upon arrival in the United States.

Who is eligible for Global Entry?

To be eligible for Global Entry, you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Applicants under the age of 18 need parental or legal guardian consent to apply.

Additionally, several countries have partnered with the U.S. government to qualify for Global Entry, including residents from Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico, New Zealand, The Netherlands, Panama, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. The application process for residents of these countries mirrors that of the United States; however, there are only enrollment centers in Canada, making Global Entry on Arrival the most straightforward option.

How to obtain Global Entry

To enroll in the Global Entry program, you’ll need to complete a few steps:

1. Set up a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account.
2. Complete the online application, which requires information about your residential addresses, employment history, and countries you’ve visited in the past five years, along with a $100 enrollment fee.
3. Once submitted, your application will be evaluated by a U.S. CBP officer. If conditionally approved (after passing a background check), you will need to arrange an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, typically located at airports.
4. Attend the in-person interview, where a CBP officer will ask you questions regarding your application and your interest in the program. They will also take your photo and scan your fingerprints. Be sure to bring a valid passport and an additional form of ID, such as a driver’s license.

How long does it take to get Global Entry?

Approval for Global Entry can take several months—currently, the government estimates a processing time of four to six months, primarily due to the high demand for Global Entry following the pandemic and the temporary closure of enrollment centers in 2020.

However, there are a few ways to expedite the process for obtaining Global Entry, including:

• Taking part in enrollment on arrival: Applicants who receive conditional approval can complete their interview with an immigration official upon returning from an international flight. Look for the “Enrollment on Arrival” signs after you land, which will guide you to a CBP officer to finalize the process.
• Registering for Appointment Scanner, a service that continuously monitors the Trusted Traveler website for canceled Global Entry interviews and notifies you when an appointment becomes available, allowing you to book it yourself.

Following the in-person interview, new members usually receive their Global Entry card within 10 business days.

What is the cost of Global Entry?

Global Entry requires a fee of $100 for a five-year membership (this fee is nonrefundable). However, several travel credit cards offer complimentary TSA PreCheck or Global Entry as benefits, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum card, among others. To receive Global Entry at no cost, you’ll need to charge the fee to your credit card (you’ll receive the amount back as a statement credit).

Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?

Yes, Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck (which typically costs $78 separately). TSA PreCheck is a trusted traveler program that allows you to use an expedited TSA security line at most domestic airports, letting you keep your shoes on and large electronics in your bag.

How long is Global Entry valid, and how can I renew it?

Global Entry is valid for five years. If you plan to renew, make sure to do so before your membership expires; otherwise, you’ll lose your benefits (including TSA PreCheck) and will need to reapply. The renewal process is simpler than re-enrollment since you will already have an account (you’ll need to update any changes in your address or employment and list the countries you’ve visited since joining Global Entry); some applicants may not have to attend another interview, as determined by the vetting center.

Is Global Entry worth it?

For frequent travelers, Global Entry is definitely worth it, especially if you can obtain it for free through a credit card. When combined with TSA PreCheck, it significantly reduces wait times at both airport security and customs. However, if you don’t travel internationally often, it may not be justifiable in terms of cost and effort, particularly when alternative options, like Mobile Passport (a free app that lets travelers input their details and use a designated, usually shorter, line), can serve as a convenient solution at customs.