Global Entry renewal: A how-to guide

The Global Entry program is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) designed to get international travelers through airport customs checkpoints faster when they reenter the U.S.

Learn how to renew your Global Entry membership before it expires, how long it might take, whether you’ll need an interview, and how to avoid delays.

What you’ll learn:

• Membership in Global Entry lasts for five years; renewal extends it for another five years.

• You can renew your membership up to one year before it expires.

• Eligible Capital One Venture and Venture X cardholders can receive up to a $120 statement credit toward their Global Entry renewal. There are also eligible Capital One business cards.

Global Entry is one of four TTPs run by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The other three TTPs are TSA PreCheck, NEXUS and SENTRI.

The Global Entry program helps expedite customs screening for travelers reentering the U.S. after traveling abroad. The program is designed to offer shorter wait times and faster processing to promote easier experiences when returning to the U.S. 

Global Entry membership is open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, Mexican nationals and citizens from partner countries. It’s available at dozens of airports in the U.S. and abroad.

Here are the key things you’ll need to renew your Global Entry membership.

• Active membership: Renewals can start up to one year before current memberships expire.

• Continued eligibility: Members have to be in good standing with customs and immigration laws. That means, in part, not having new violations or criminal convictions.

• Interview: Some applicants may be asked to complete another in-person interview, especially if there are changes in their application or if additional screening is needed.

• Application fee: The $120 renewal fee must be paid online when applying for renewal. The fee is nonrefundable, even if your application is denied or delayed.

Renewing Global Entry membership isn’t difficult, but it might require some planning. Processing times can vary, so submitting early can help prevent a lapse in benefits. 

Here’s what to know and the steps to take to keep your trusted traveler status active.

You can start the renewal process up to one year before your membership expires. Some applications are approved within weeks. Others may take several months, especially if you’re required to complete another interview.

• If you renew before expiration: You’re allowed to keep using your Global Entry benefits for up to 24 months from the time your application expires. This grace period helps prevent a lapse in service and account for any processing or interview-related delays.

• If you renew after expiration: You won’t get the 24-month grace period, and your benefits will immediately lapse. You’ll have to wait until your renewal is fully processed and approved to use Global Entry again.

You can renew your Global Entry application online on the TTP website. Here are the steps:

1. Sign in to your account on the TTP portal.

2. In your Dashboard, look for Global Entry under the program membership section and select the option to renew.

3. Follow the prompts on the renewal page to complete your application.

Once you’ve submitted your renewal application on the TTP portal, follow the prompts to pay your application fee.

There’s good news if you have an eligible Capital One card: You could receive a statement credit up to $120 when you use it to pay for the renewal application fee.

In-person interviews are typically part of the initial TTP application, but not all renewals require one. There may also be options for remote interviews.

If you’re asked to do a renewal interview, you have two convenient options. You can book your interview at a Global Entry enrollment center or use the option to enroll when you arrive at a major airport.

Getting ready for your Global Entry interview is simple if you plan ahead. Here are a few easy steps to follow:

• Check your application to make sure all information is accurate.

• Bring key documents, including your passport, photo identification and conditional approval letter.

• Be ready to talk about your background, job and travel history.

It might also be a good idea to dress appropriately and arrive early.

You can expect interviewers to ask some basic questions to confirm your identity and learn more about your background. Here’s what they might ask about:

• Your name, address and other personal details

• Your reason for applying and work history

• Travel history, including where you’ve been and why

• Any past legal issues or border-related incidents

CBP says interviews take about 15 minutes.

Here are some frequently asked questions about renewing your Global Entry card.

Global Entry is one of several U.S. government TTPs that help travelers move through customs faster. Renewing your membership is straightforward but can take time. Starting the process up to a year before your membership expires can help you avoid a lapse in benefits.

Eligible Venture and Venture X cardholders can get up to a $120 statement credit every four years when they use their card to pay Global Entry renewals. Some Capital One business cards are also eligible.