Key Highlights
- Every child, regardless of age, must have their own Global Entry membership to use the expedited lanes.
- There are no minimum age eligibility requirements; even infants can apply for this Trusted Traveler Program.
- The standard $120 application fee is waived for minors if a parent has or is applying for Global Entry.
- Global Entry membership includes valuable TSA PreCheck benefits, speeding up airport security.
- A parent or legal guardian must provide consent and attend the child’s interview at an enrollment center.
- The application requires a TTP account, documents, and an in-person interview for each child.
Introduction
Are you tired of long customs lines after an international flight with your family? Getting back into the United States doesn’t have to be a hassle. The Global Entry program, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, offers a fantastic solution for frequent travelers. It allows pre-approved, low-risk individuals to enjoy expedited clearance upon arrival. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about getting Global Entry for your children and making your family trips smoother than ever.
Understanding Global Entry for Children and Families
The Global Entry program is a trusted traveler program designed to make your return from international travel much faster. A major perk is that membership also includes the TSA PreCheck program, which simplifies security screening for domestic flights.
For families, understanding how this system applies to children is key to a stress-free travel experience. Let’s explore what Global Entry is and why it’s a worthwhile investment for your family’s adventures.
What Is Global Entry and How Does It Work for Kids?
Global Entry allows pre-screened international travelers to bypass traditional customs lines when re-entering the U.S. Instead of waiting to see an officer, you can use an automated kiosk to present your passport, scan your fingerprints, and complete a customs declaration. After the kiosk issues a receipt, you proceed to baggage claim.
Does Global Entry work differently for families with children? The short answer is no. The process is the same for every traveler, regardless of age. Each child must complete the full application process, attend an interview, and be approved for their own membership.
Once approved, your child will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). You must add this number to their airline reservations to ensure they can use the Global Entry kiosks and enjoy expedited screening.
Why Consider Global Entry for Your Family’s International Travel?
Why should families consider Global Entry for international travel? The primary benefit is convenience. After a long international trip, the last thing anyone wants is to stand in a slow-moving line with tired and jet-lagged children. Global Entry helps you avoid this common travel headache.
The advantages extend beyond just customs. Your membership comes with fantastic perks that streamline your entire airport experience. These benefits make the application process well worth the effort for families who fly often.
Here are some top reasons to enroll your family:
- Shorter Wait Times: Breeze through customs and immigration, significantly cutting down your time at the airport.
- TSA PreCheck Included: Enjoy expedited airport security on domestic flights, meaning you can keep your shoes on and laptops in your bag.
Who Is Eligible for Global Entry as a Minor?
Understanding the eligibility requirements is the first step in the process. Global Entry is available to U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents. Additionally, citizens of several other countries, including the United Kingdom, India, Germany, and South Korea, are also eligible to apply.
For minors, these same basic rules apply. As long as a child meets the citizenship or residency criteria, they can apply for the program. The next sections will cover the specific requirements related to age.
Age Requirements and Restrictions for Kids
Are you wondering if there are age restrictions for kids to enroll in Global Entry? The good news is that there is no minimum age requirement to apply for the Global Entry program. From newborns to teenagers, all children are eligible to become members and receive their own traveler number.
This means your entire family can enjoy the benefits of expedited travel together. While international travelers of any age can apply, the process for minors does have one important distinction: they need parental consent.
A parent or legal guardian must create the application on the child’s behalf, consent to their enrollment, and accompany them to the in-person interview. This rule applies whether they are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Eligibility Criteria for Newborns, Infants, and Teens
Can newborns or infants get Global Entry? Yes, they absolutely can. The eligibility requirements for the youngest travelers are the same as for adults. There are no special restrictions based on age, so your entire family can enroll.
To be eligible, a child must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. Citizens of certain other approved countries can also apply, but it’s important to check the specific agreements related to your child’s country of citizenship before starting a Global Entry application.
Ultimately, the core criteria remain consistent for all applicants. Every child, from an infant to a teen, must meet the program’s standards and undergo the same vetting process as an adult to be approved.
Do Kids Need Their Own Global Entry Membership?
One of the most frequent questions parents ask is whether children need their own Global Entry membership. Unlike the TSA PreCheck program, where children can sometimes accompany their parents through the expedited lane, Global Entry has stricter rules.
Every single person using the Global Entry lanes must have their own active membership. This includes infants, toddlers, and teenagers. Without it, your child will have to go through the standard customs process. The following sections explain these rules in more detail.
Traveling with Parents: Rules for Children in Global Entry Lanes
Do children need their own Global Entry membership, or can they travel with their parents? To use the Global Entry lanes, every traveler in your group must be a member. You cannot bring your child through the expedited lane with you if they do not have their own membership.
If you are a member but your child is not, you have two choices. You can either go through the Global Entry lane alone and wait for your family on the other side, or you can join them in the standard customs line. For most families, sticking together is the preferred option.
To use the lanes together, you must ensure:
- Every family member has their own Global Entry membership.
- Each person’s Known Traveler Number is added to their airline reservation.
- The TSA PreCheck or Global Entry indicator appears on everyone’s boarding pass.
Family Travel: Individual vs. Shared Memberships
When it comes to family travel, it’s important to know that Global Entry does not offer a shared membership or a family plan. Each family member, including your child, will need an individual Global Entry membership to access the program’s benefits.
You might be wondering, “How do I add my kids to my Global Entry account for family travel?” You cannot add a child to your existing account. Instead, you must create a separate Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account for each child.
From there, you will complete a unique application for every child, pay the fee, and schedule their individual interviews. Although it requires a separate process for each person, ensuring everyone has their own membership and traveler number is the only way to use the expedited lanes as a family.
Cost of Global Entry for Children
The cost is an important factor when considering Global Entry for your whole family. The standard, non-refundable application fee is $120 per person and covers five years of membership, which includes TSA PreCheck benefits.
However, there’s great news for parents. The Global Entry application fee for children under 18 is waived when a parent or legal guardian is already a member or is applying at the same time. There are also other ways to cover the costs, which we’ll explore next.
Is Global Entry Free for Kids or Are Fees Required?
So, is Global Entry free for kids, or do they have to pay a fee? In a welcome update to the program, the Global Entry application fee is now waived for applicants under the age of 18, provided a parent or legal guardian already has or is concurrently applying for a NEXUS, SENTRI, or Global Entry membership.
This change makes it much more affordable to get the whole family enrolled. For adults, the application fee costs $120. This fee is required for each adult applicant and is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
If you do need to pay the fee for an adult, many travel credit cards offer a statement credit that reimburses the cost of the application. This is a popular perk that can make getting a Global Entry membership essentially free.
Credit Card Benefits and Other Ways to Save on Application Fees
Are there other ways to save on Global Entry application fees for kids and adults? Absolutely. Many premium travel credit cards offer a statement credit of up to $100 or more to cover the cost of applying for a Trusted Traveler Program like Global Entry. This benefit is typically available every four to five years.
If you and your spouse hold multiple eligible credit cards, you can pay for each adult’s application fee with a different card to have the costs reimbursed. Simply use the eligible card to pay the fee online, and the statement credit will appear on your account automatically.
Here are some popular travel credit cards that offer this valuable perk:
| Credit Card | Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit |
|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Reserve® | Up to $100 statement credit every 4 years |
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | Up to $100 statement credit every 4 years for Global Entry or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck |
| Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card | Up to $100 statement credit |
What Documents Are Needed for a Child’s Global Entry Application?
When starting your child’s Global Entry application, gathering the right documents is essential for a smooth process. You will need to provide proof of citizenship and identity for your child, and as the parent or legal guardian, you will need your own documents as well.
Having everything in order before you begin the online application and head to the interview will save you time and prevent potential delays. The following sections detail exactly what you’ll need to have on hand.
Identification and Proof of Citizenship Requirements
What documents are required when applying for Global Entry for a minor? The primary document you will need is proof of their U.S. citizenship. For most applicants, a valid U.S. passport is the easiest and most common form of identification and proof of citizenship to use.
If your child is a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., you will need to provide their permanent resident card (Green Card) as proof of their status. The requirements depend on the applicant’s country of citizenship.
Remember to bring these original documents to the in-person interview. Copies will not be accepted. The Customs and Border Protection officer will need to see the original passport or permanent resident card to verify the information on the Global Entry application.
Additional Documents for Minors and Parent/Guardian Consent
Beyond proof of citizenship, what documents must parents provide for minors applying to Global Entry? The most critical element is the legal guardian’s consent. When you fill out the Global Entry application for your child, you are giving consent for them to be enrolled and for the government to conduct a background check.
During the interview, the parent or legal guardian who consented on the application must be present. You will need to bring your own valid government-issued photo identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, to prove your identity.
The application asks for sensitive information, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, along with other law enforcement agencies, will perform a background check to ensure the applicant is low-risk. Having all required parental and child documents ready is crucial for a successful interview.
Beginner’s Guide: How to Apply for Global Entry for Your Child
Ready to start the Global Entry application process for your child? It might seem complicated, but it’s manageable if you break it down into simple steps. The entire process begins online and finishes with a short, in-person interview.
First, you’ll need to create a Global Entry account for your child and then carefully complete the application. The following sections will guide you through what you need to get started and highlight common mistakes to avoid.
What You’ll Need to Get Started with the Application
So, how do I apply for Global Entry for my child? Before you begin the application process, it’s helpful to gather all the necessary information and documents. This preparation will make filling out the online forms much quicker and easier.
The Global Entry application must be completed through the official Trusted Traveler Programs website. Be sure you are on secure websites ending in “.gov” to protect your personal information. Ensure your child meets the eligibility requirements before you begin.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Your Child’s Documents: A valid passport or permanent resident card.
- Personal Information: Your child’s address history and your own information as the parent/guardian.
- Payment Method: A credit card to pay the application fee, if applicable.
Common Mistakes Parents Make When Applying for Kids
What are some common mistakes parents make when applying for Global Entry for kids? Knowing what to watch out for can help you avoid delays in the enrollment process. A simple error can cause the Global Entry application to be rejected or postponed.
One of the most frequent issues is submitting an application with incomplete information or typos. Ensure the name on the application exactly matches the name on your child’s passport or identification documents. Also, double-check that you have met all eligibility requirements.
Be mindful of these common pitfalls:
- Name Mismatches: Failing to ensure the name on the application is an exact match to the child’s legal documents.
- Incomplete Address History: Leaving gaps in the required address history section.
- Forgetting Documents: Not bringing all required original documents to the interview for both the child and the parent.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enrolling Your Child in Global Entry
The Global Entry enrollment process for a child involves a few key stages. It starts with an online application and ends with a brief in-person interview at an enrollment center. Following each step correctly will ensure your child’s application is processed smoothly.
This guide breaks down the Global Entry enrollment journey into five manageable steps. From creating an account to receiving final approval, here’s everything you need to do to get your child signed up.
Step 1: Create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) Account
How do I begin the Global Entry application for my child? The very first step is to visit the official Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website. Make sure you are on the correct .gov website, as this shows it is run by an official government organization.
Each applicant, no matter their age, must have their own individual Global Entry account. You will need to create a new TTP account specifically for your child. You cannot use your own account to apply for them.
Once you have created the account, you will log in and select the Global Entry program to start the application. This account will be where you manage the application, check for status updates, and schedule the interview.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application for Your Child
How do I fill out the Global Entry application for my child? After creating their account, you will proceed to the online application form. This form asks for detailed personal information, so it’s best to have all your child’s documents, like their passport, ready before you start.
You will need to enter sensitive information, including your child’s full name, date of birth, address history, and travel history. Be sure to fill out every section accurately and completely. The information must match their legal documents perfectly. Remember that you are submitting this on secure websites, so your data is protected.
As a parent or guardian, you will also need to provide your own information and formally consent to your child’s enrollment in the program. Take your time and double-check all entries before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee and Submit Required Documents
How do I pay the Global Entry application fee and submit documents for my child? Once the online Global Entry application is complete, you will be prompted to pay the non-refundable application fee. As of a recent update, this fee is waived for applicants under 18 if a parent is a member or applying concurrently.
If a fee is required, you can pay it online with a credit card. This is the perfect time to use a travel rewards card that offers a statement credit for Global Entry application fees. This perk effectively makes the membership free and includes all associated TSA PreCheck benefits.
No physical documents are submitted with the online application. Instead, you will bring the original documents with you to the in-person interview for verification. After payment, submit the application and wait for conditional approval.
Step 4: Schedule and Attend the Interview with Your Child
What is the process for scheduling a Global Entry interview for children? After you submit the application, the Department of Homeland Security will conduct a background check. Once your child is conditionally approved, you will receive a notification to schedule their Global Entry interview.
You can schedule the appointment at any Global Entry enrollment center through your child’s TTP account. Appointments can be difficult to find, so check the portal frequently for openings or cancellations. Another excellent option is Enrollment on Arrival. This allows conditionally approved applicants to complete their interview upon returning from an international trip at participating airports, no appointment needed.
Key points for the interview:
- A parent or legal guardian must attend the interview with the child.
- Bring your child’s valid passport and any other required documents.
- The parent/guardian must also bring their own valid ID.
Step 5: Final Approval and Receiving Your Child’s Global Entry Membership
How do I know my child has received Global Entry approval? In many cases, the Customs and Border Protection officer will grant final approval at the end of the interview. You will receive an email confirmation shortly after, and your child’s status in their TTP account will update to “Approved.”
Your child can begin using their Global Entry membership immediately by using their PASSID, which serves as their Known Traveler Number, for airline reservations. The physical Global Entry card will arrive in the mail within a few weeks. While the card is not needed for using Global Entry at an airport, it can be used for land and sea entry into the U.S.
Remember that the Global Entry membership is valid for five years. You will need to complete a renewal process before it expires to maintain the benefits.
What to Expect at the Global Entry Interview for Kids
The Global Entry interview can sound intimidating, but for children, it’s usually a quick and straightforward process. The main purpose is for a Customs and Border Protection officer to verify identity, capture biometrics, and ask a few simple questions.
As the parent or legal guardian, your presence is mandatory, and you will do most of the talking. Preparing yourself and your child for what to expect at the enrollment center will help make the experience stress-free for everyone.
Preparing Your Child for the Interview Experience
How should parents prepare children for the Global Entry interview? The best approach is to keep it simple and positive. Explain to your child that you are going to an office where a friendly officer will ask a few questions, take their picture, and scan their fingerprints so you can all get through the airport faster on your next trip.
Reassure them that it’s a simple process and that you will be with them the entire time. The goal is to make the experience today feel routine rather than scary. Avoid building it up into a big, stressful event.
Before you go, make sure you have all the necessary documents organized and ready.
- Double-check official websites for the enrollment center’s hours and any specific instructions.
- Bring your child’s passport and your own ID.
- Arrive a few minutes early to avoid feeling rushed.
What Happens During the Interview and What Officers Look For
What do officers check during a Global Entry interview for kids? The interview at the enrollment center is the final step of the background check. The officer’s main job is to verify that your child is who their application says they are and to confirm their eligibility.
During the interview, the officer will take your child’s photograph and scan their fingerprints (for older children). They will ask you, the parent, to confirm the information on the application. They might ask your child a very simple question, like their name, but most interaction will be with you.
The officer is looking to:
- Verify the authenticity of your documents (passport, etc.).
- Confirm the child’s identity.
- Ensure all information provided is accurate and complete.
Conclusion
Global Entry can be a game-changer for families traveling internationally, making the process smoother and more efficient. By enrolling your child, you not only expedite customs and immigration but also instill a sense of adventure and independence from a young age. Understanding the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process ensures that you’re well-prepared for this journey. As you consider the benefits of Global Entry for your family, remember that this program is designed to accommodate children and make travel enjoyable for everyone. If you’re ready to enhance your travel experience, get started with the application today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can infants and toddlers enroll in Global Entry?
Yes, infants and toddlers can enroll in Global Entry. There is no minimum age, and the eligibility requirements are the same for all applicants. As long as they are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, they can join this trusted traveler program and receive TSA PreCheck program benefits.
How do I update my child’s Global Entry information after approval?
To update your child’s Global Entry information, such as a new passport number, you can log in to their Global Entry account on the official government organization’s Trusted Traveler Program website. Some changes may require visiting an enrollment center in person. This is also where you will handle the renewal process.
Can children use Global Entry lanes if only their parents are members?
No, children cannot use the Global Entry lanes unless they have their own Global Entry membership. Unlike some TSA PreCheck benefits, this traveler program requires every individual, regardless of age, to be an approved member to use the expedited airport security lanes for customs.
What documents are required when applying for Global Entry for a minor?
For a minor’s Global Entry application, you will need proof of citizenship, such as a valid passport. If they are a permanent resident, you’ll need their permanent resident card. The application also requires legal guardian’s consent, and the guardian must bring their own identification to the interview.
Is Global Entry free for kids?
The Global Entry application fee is waived for children under 18 if a parent or guardian is a member or applying at the same time. Otherwise, the standard application fee costs apply. Many travel credit cards offer statement credits that can reimburse the fee, making it free.