Key Highlights
Thinking about joining one of the most popular traveler programs? Here’s a quick look at what you need to know about Global Entry:
- Global Entry is a program that offers expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers returning to the U.S.
- A key benefit is that membership includes TSA PreCheck, speeding up your security screening for domestic flights.
- It can dramatically reduce your wait times at customs and immigration.
- The nonrefundable application fee is $120 for a five-year membership.
- Many travel credit cards will reimburse the application fee.
- It’s a game-changer for frequent international travel.
What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The program is designed to give pre-approved, low-risk travelers an expedited clearance process when they arrive in the United States from an international trip. Essentially, it helps you get through immigration and customs much faster.
If you’ve ever dreaded the long lines after a long flight, a Global Entry membership could be your solution. The Global Entry application process involves a background check and an in-person interview, ensuring that only trusted travelers are granted access to these speedy lanes.
Overview of the Global Entry Program
The Global Entry program is one of several traveler programs aimed at making your journey smoother. As a Global Entry member, your real-life experience returning to the U.S. from international flights is transformed. Instead of waiting in long U.S. Customs and Border Protection lines, you can head directly to a designated Global Entry kiosk.
At the kiosk, the process is quick and often paperless. Using facial recognition technology, the machine verifies your identity. You might answer a few questions on the screen, and then you can proceed to baggage claim. This system is available at more than 75 airports, significantly cutting down the time you spend in the arrivals hall.
Additionally, some international airports have preclearance locations. This means you can clear U.S. customs before you even board your flight back to the United States. When you land, you can walk off the plane just like you would on a domestic flight, completely bypassing the customs hall.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
Before you start the application process, it’s important to know the eligibility requirements. To qualify for Global Entry, you must be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. lawful permanent resident. Additionally, citizens from a select list of other countries, including the U.K., Germany, South Korea, and Mexico, can also apply thanks to international agreements.
You must also have a valid passport and be willing to undergo a thorough background check. Any criminal convictions, pending charges, or violations of immigration regulations could make you ineligible. The first step is to create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account online to begin your application.
For travelers with dual citizenship or multiple passports, Global Entry is still a great option. You can hold a membership as long as you meet the other requirements. You simply need to register your passports in your TTP account and ensure the one you are using for travel is current in your profile.
Core Benefits of Global Entry
The core Global Entry benefits center around one thing: saving you time and stress at the airport. The most celebrated perk is the ability to bypass long immigration lines upon returning from international travel by using special Global Entry kiosks. This can dramatically reduce your overall wait times.
Another major advantage is that your membership automatically includes TSA PreCheck. This means you get to enjoy expedited security screening on domestic flights, too. These two benefits combined make Global Entry one of the most valuable traveler programs available. Let’s explore these perks in more detail.
Faster Entry and Customs Processing
How much time can you actually save? Potentially, hours. After a long international flight, the last thing you want is to stand in a slow-moving line for customs processing. Global Entry allows you to skip those queues and head to a self-service kiosk.
The process at the Global Entry kiosks is designed for speed. Historically, it involved fingerprints, but many airports now use advanced facial recognition technology. This paperless entry is widely available and makes your arrival incredibly efficient.
Here’s how you can speed through customs with Global Entry:
- Global Entry Kiosks: Scan your face and answer a few questions on the screen.
- Facial Recognition: Most kiosks use this technology for quick, touchless identity verification.
- Mobile App: At some airports, you can even use the Global Entry mobile app on your smartphone to submit your arrival information.
- Preclearance: Clear customs at select international airports before you even fly to the U.S.
TSA PreCheck Inclusion
One of the best TSA PreCheck benefits is that it comes included with your Global Entry membership. For just a little more than the cost of PreCheck alone, you get expedited security screening for domestic flights in addition to faster customs processing. This makes applying for Global Entry worth the extra step for many travelers.
When you’re approved for Global Entry, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). You must add this KTN to your airline reservations and frequent flyer profiles. This ensures the TSA PreCheck logo appears on your boarding pass, giving you access to the dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes.
In these lanes, the security screening process is much faster. You typically don’t have to:
- Remove your shoes
- Take out laptops or 3-1-1 liquids from your bag
- Remove light jackets or belts
The average wait time in TSA PreCheck lanes is less than 10 minutes, making your airport experience much more pleasant.
Time Savings at US Airports
The time saved is perhaps the most compelling reason to pay the Global Entry fee. Standing in a long customs line after an overnight flight can be exhausting. With Global Entry, you can often clear customs in a matter of minutes, while others might wait for an hour or more, especially during peak travel seasons.
The value becomes even clearer when you consider the included TSA PreCheck benefit. Shorter security lines on every domestic trip add up to significant time savings over the five-year membership period. Even infrequent international flyers get consistent value from the PreCheck perk.
Here’s a look at typical wait times to illustrate the difference:
| Process | Standard Traveler Wait Times | Global Entry / TSA PreCheck Wait Times |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Customs | 30 – 60+ minutes | Under 5 minutes |
| Airport Security | 20 – 45+ minutes | Under 10 minutes |
The Application Process Explained
The Global Entry application process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. You’ll start by creating an account on the official government organization’s Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. Be sure you are using official, secure websites with a “.gov” domain to protect your information.
After creating your account, you will complete the detailed online application and pay the nonrefundable fee. Once your application is conditionally approved, the final step is an in-person interview. While it seems like a few steps, it’s a manageable process that unlocks years of easier travel.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Ready to apply? The Global Entry application is done online through the official TTP website. It’s more involved than applying for TSA PreCheck, but the added international benefits make it worthwhile for many.
First, you’ll need to gather some documents, including your passport and proof of residency, like a driver’s license or utility bill. The online form will ask for personal details, travel history, and employment information. Be prepared to pay the non-refundable $120 application fee at the end.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps:
- Create a TTP account on the official websites for Trusted Traveler Programs.
- Complete the online Global Entry application thoroughly and accurately.
- Pay the $120 application fee online.
- Wait for conditional approval, which involves a background check.
- Schedule your in-person interview at an enrollment center.
Interview and Approval Experience
Scheduling a Global Entry interview can sometimes be challenging due to high demand. However, there are a few ways to get it done. You can book an appointment at a Global Entry Enrollment Center online. New slots are often released on the first Monday of each month.
A fantastic option that many travelers use is “Enrollment on Arrival.” This allows you to complete your interview with a CBP officer as you’re clearing customs after an international flight—no appointment needed. You’ll just need your passport and a form of identification that serves as proof of residency.
During the brief interview, the CBP officer will verify the information on your application, take your fingerprints, and take your photo. The whole process usually takes 10-15 minutes. Once approved, you’ll receive your Global Entry card and can start using your benefits right away, transforming your travel experience today.
Costs and Ways to Save
The Global Entry fee is a nonrefundable $120 for a five-year membership. This breaks down to just $24 per year for expedited customs and included TSA PreCheck. The same fee applies when you go through the Global Entry renewal process every five years.
However, you might not have to pay that application fee out of pocket. Many popular travel credit cards offer an application fee credit as a cardholder perk. This benefit can make getting Global Entry essentially free. We’ll look at how the fees work and which cards can help you save.
Application and Renewal Fees
As of 2024, the application fee for Global Entry is $120. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Your membership is valid for five years, expiring on your birthday in the fifth year. The Global Entry renewal fee is the same, and you can start the renewal process up to a year before your expiration date.
Is it worth it if you only travel internationally once a year? For many, the answer is yes. The cost difference between Global Entry and TSA PreCheck alone is minimal over five years, but the benefits are much greater. Avoiding just one miserably long customs line can feel priceless.
Here’s how the costs compare:
| Program | Application Fee | Membership Length | Includes TSA PreCheck? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Entry | $120 | 5 years | Yes |
| TSA PreCheck | Up to $85 | 5 years | No |
Getting Global Entry for Free With Credit Cards
One of the easiest ways to cover the application cost is by using the right credit card. Many of the best credit cards for travel offer a statement credit that reimburses you for the Global Entry application fee. This perk is typically available once every four to five years, aligning perfectly with the membership renewal cycle.
You simply pay the $120 fee with your eligible card, and the bank will automatically issue a credit to your account for the same amount. Even if you only travel abroad once a year, getting the fee waived makes Global Entry an undeniable value.
Some popular credit cards offering an application fee credit include:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- United℠ Explorer Card
Is Global Entry a Good Fit For You?
Deciding whether to get Global Entry depends entirely on your travel habits and priorities. For frequent international travelers, the program is a clear winner, saving immense time and hassle on regular international trips. But what if you don’t travel abroad that often?
Even occasional travelers can find great value in a Global Entry membership. The process might seem like a lot, but the long-term benefits are substantial. Let’s break down whether the Global Entry application is a good move for different types of travelers, from solo flyers to families.
Frequent vs. Occasional International Travelers
For frequent international travelers, a Global Entry membership is almost essential. If you take multiple international trips per year, the time saved by skipping long customs wait times adds up quickly, making the airport experience far less stressful.
But is Global Entry worth it for someone who only travels internationally once a year? Many people find that it is. The main benefits for non-frequent flyers are twofold. First, you still get to breeze through customs on that one annual trip, which is a huge relief after a long flight. Second, you get to use TSA PreCheck on all your domestic flights year-round.
Consider these points if you’re an occasional traveler:
- The membership includes five years of TSA PreCheck access.
- Avoiding even one long customs line can make the fee worthwhile.
- Many credit cards cover the application fee, making it free.
Families and Traveling With Children
Traveling with children can be challenging, and anything that simplifies the airport process is a huge help. Having Global Entry can absolutely make a difference for international travel with kids, but there’s a critical rule you must know: every single member of your family needs their own membership, regardless of age.
Unlike TSA PreCheck, where children under 12 can accompany a parent, Global Entry does not extend benefits to non-members. This means you cannot bring your baby or child through the Global Entry lane with you unless they are also enrolled. A parent or legal guardian must consent to the Global Entry application for a minor.
Key points for families:
- Every traveler, including infants, needs their own Global Entry.
- The application fee is the same for children as it is for adults.
- A parent or legal guardian must complete the application process for minors.
- The convenience can be well worth the cost and effort for families who travel internationally.
Dual Citizens or Those With Multiple Passports
If you have dual citizenship or carry multiple passports, you might wonder if you’re eligible for the program. The good news is that Global Entry is definitely recommended for travelers in this situation. You can successfully apply for and use Global Entry benefits as long as you meet the standard eligibility criteria.
The key is to keep your information current. During the Global Entry application, you will be asked to provide your passport details. If you have two valid passports, you can add both to your Trusted Traveler Program account.
It is crucial to make sure the valid passport you are using for your international travel is the one listed in your profile. You can log in to your account at any time to update your document information. This ensures that when you arrive in the U.S., the kiosk can match your identity to your active membership without any issues.
Potential Drawbacks and Limitations
While Global Entry is an amazing tool for travelers, it’s not without a few potential drawbacks. The application process requires you to provide sensitive information for a background check, which some people may be hesitant to do. There are also some common challenges you might face along the way.
The biggest hurdles for many applicants are the potential wait times for approval and the difficulty of securing a Global Entry enrollment interview. Understanding these disadvantages ahead of time can help you decide if the program is right for you.
Common Challenges and Disadvantages
Are there drawbacks to getting Global Entry? Yes, a few challenges exist within the application process. The most frequently cited issue is the difficulty in scheduling an interview. Appointment slots at a Global Entry Enrollment Center can be scarce, with applicants sometimes waiting weeks or months for an opening.
Another point of friction can be the application wait times. While many applications are conditionally approved within a couple of weeks, some can take much longer for review. This can be frustrating if you have an upcoming international trip.
Here are some common disadvantages:
- Long wait times: The application and renewal process can sometimes be delayed.
- Interview scheduling: Finding an open appointment at an enrollment center can be difficult.
- Providing sensitive information: The application requires a detailed background check.
- No guarantee: TSA PreCheck is not 100% guaranteed for every flight, though it is granted most of the time.
Differences Compared to TSA PreCheck and Other Programs
Global Entry is just one of several trusted traveler programs available, and it’s important to know how it stacks up against the others. Its main competitor, TSA PreCheck, is great for domestic travel but offers no benefits when returning from abroad. Mobile Passport Control is a free app that can also speed up customs, but it’s not as consistently fast as Global Entry.
Other programs like NEXUS (for U.S.-Canada travel) and SENTRI (for U.S.-Mexico travel) offer more specific benefits. Interestingly, both NEXUS and SENTRI memberships include Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits, sometimes at a lower cost, making them excellent alternatives depending on your travel patterns.
Here is how the programs compare:
| Program | Primary Benefit | Cost | Includes Global Entry? | Includes TSA PreCheck? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global Entry | Expedited U.S. customs | $120 / 5 yrs | N/A | Yes |
| TSA PreCheck | Expedited U.S. security screening | Up to $85 / 5 yrs | No | N/A |
| NEXUS | Expedited U.S. & Canada customs | $120 / 5 yrs | Yes | Yes |
| SENTRI | Expedited U.S. & Mexico customs | $120 / 5 yrs | Yes | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Global Entry worth it for infrequent international travelers?
For many infrequent international travelers, Global Entry is still worth the application fee. A Global Entry membership includes five years of TSA PreCheck for all your domestic flights, which is a significant perk. Plus, avoiding a long customs line even just once can make the Global Entry fee feel entirely justified.
Does Global Entry help when traveling with kids?
Yes, Global Entry can be a huge help when traveling with children. However, every traveler, including infants and kids, must have their own Global Entry membership to use the expedited lanes. A parent or legal guardian must consent to and complete the Global Entry application on behalf of a minor.
Can Global Entry be used by people with dual citizenship?
Absolutely. People with dual citizenship can apply for and use Global Entry. During the Global Entry application, you just need to register your valid passport information. If you have more than one passport, ensure the one you’re using for international travel is updated in your online account for seamless processing.