Global Entry (2024)

Trusted Traveler Program Enrollment

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports.

At airports, program members proceed to the Global Entry lanes where processing technology will be used to expedite the members by capturing a photo to verify their membership. Once the photo has been captured, the member will receive on-screen instructions and proceed to a CBP officer who will confirm that you have successfully completed the process.

Travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrollment. If a traveler was unable to schedule an interview at an Enrollment Center prior to their international travel, they have an option to complete their interview via Enrollment on Arrival upon their arrival to the United States.

Another upcoming processing technology option for travelers will be the Global Entry Mobile App. This app will enable members to validate their arrival to the U.S. on their iOS or Android device prior to entering the Federal Inspection Services area.

While Global Entry’s goal is to speed travelers through the process, members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States. Any violation of the program’s terms and conditions will result in the appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.

Global Entry (2024)

FAQs

Which is better, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry? ›

If you travel internationally four or more times a year, consider enrolling in Global Entry. If you take less than four international trips a year, TSA PreCheck is a great choice for domestic travelers. For more information on all of the DHS Trusted Traveler Programs use the DHS interactive Trusted Traveler Tool.

Is Global Entry worth it anymore? ›

Whether or not Global Entry is worth it will depend on your personal situation. If all your travel is domestic, Global Entry may not fit your needs. But if you have international travel plans within the next five years, Global Entry can save you a lot of time at the airport.

How long does it take for Global Entry? ›

While times can vary, CBP says it's typical for a Global Entry application to be processed in four to six months. Note that the processing time can't be expedited. If there's a change in status, you can expect an email notification.

Is there a downside to Global Entry? ›

The only potential downsides of Global Entry is that it requires fingerprinting and background check and costs $100 every 5 years. Scheduling and completing your Global Entry interview can also be a hassle, which is why taking advantage of Enrollment on Arrival can be wise.

Is Global Entry $100 for 5 years? ›

Global Entry: $100 (includes TSA PreCheck)

It costs $100 to apply, and the membership lasts for five years. Some credit cards and elite frequent flyer programs reimburse your application fee. This program refers to the Known Traveler Number as PASSID, but the number is used the same way.

Can I upgrade my TSA PreCheck to Global Entry? ›

You can't upgrade from TSA PreCheck to Global Entry

Even if you already have TSA PreCheck, you must apply for Global Entry separately. There is no way to get an automatic upgrade from TSA PreCheck to Global Entry. You must complete the Global Entry application documents and then make an interview appointment.

What do you skip with Global Entry? ›

In addition to skipping the Customs line at your U.S. arrival airport, you'll also receive TSA PreCheck® benefits as part of your Global Entry membership (an $85 value). This allows you to pass through airport security lines without removing your shoes, belt, or laptop.

Does Global Entry go through customs? ›

As a member, you'll receive expedited security screening through the TSA PreCheck lanes at participating domestic airports, as well as accelerated entry at eligible U.S. Customs locations.

Does AAA do Global Entry? ›

Membership is $100 for five years. The enrollment processes for both TSA PreCheck and Global Entry begin online and conclude with an in-person appointment and background check.

What disqualifies you from Global Entry? ›

You may not be eligible for participation in the Global Entry program if you: Provide false or incomplete information on the application; Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges or outstanding warrants (to include driving under the influence);

Does Global Entry help in Europe? ›

Does Europe recognize Global Entry? Global Entry has arrangements with several countries in Europe. Usually, citizens of these countries have to meet certain requirements and complete processes their country has designated as part of a Global Entry application.

Is it better to get TSA PreCheck or Global Entry? ›

Once you're enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you'll be able to use your Trusted Traveler status to access expedited security lines at over 200 airports in the United States. If you regularly travel outside of the United States, you should consider Global Entry.

Can I just walk in for a Global Entry interview? ›

It's not as convenient as it sounds though — you must have already enrolled online and received conditional approval to be eligible for the Global Entry interview walk-in option. Of course, you'll also need to be arriving from a flight abroad, but at least you can complete the interview without an appointment.

Does Global Entry override TSA PreCheck? ›

No. To receive TSA PreCheck®, you must include your Known Traveler Number (your CBP PASSID for Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI members) in the appropriate field of your airline reservation, and the TSA PreCheck® indicator must be displayed on the boarding pass to access the lanes.

Is Global Entry approval faster if you have TSA PreCheck? ›

Is it easy to get Global Entry if I have TSA PreCheck? Strictly speaking, TSA PreCheck membership does not make a Global Entry application easier.

Is TSA PreCheck worth it for international flights? ›

If you fly two to three times per year, whether it be international or domestic, then the ability to skip super long security lines with TSA PreCheck is certainly worth the cost,” says John Taylor Garner, CEO of Odynn, a credit card awards optimization platform.

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