What is Global Entry and how do you get it?

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It helps speed up the customs process for pre-approved travelers when they’re entering the country. Members can bypass lines at customs by using kiosks available at more than 75 U.S. airports. 

What you’ll learn:

• Global Entry program benefits include expedited customs screening and access to TSA PreCheck®.

• The application fee for Global Entry is $120, and the membership is valid for 5 years.

• Individuals can apply for membership by completing an online form and attending an in-person interview.

• Some Capital One credit cards provide a statement credit to cover the Global Entry application fee.

With Global Entry, you could save time when you return from a trip abroad. Instead of standing in a long customs line, kiosk check-ins could help you head home sooner. CBP gives 6 reasons why people should become a Global Entry member:

1. No processing lines: Members can bypass traditional customs lines and use an automated kiosk to scan their passport and verify their identity.

2. No paperwork: Members can avoid filling out a declaration form by using a kiosk.

3. Expedited entry in other countries: Members can access expedited entry benefits in countries with international agreements.

4. Availability at major U.S. airports: Global Entry is available at more than 75 airports.

5. Reduced wait times: Automated kiosks allow members to bypass typical passport control lines and paperwork.

6. TSA PreCheck® eligibility: Members are automatically eligible for TSA PreCheck benefits.

A Global Entry membership is valid for 5 years from the date you’re approved. 

You can start the renewal process for Global Entry up to 1 year before your membership expires.

To qualify for the Global Entry program, you must:

• Be a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the U.S. or a citizen of a partner country

• Be at least 18 years old or have permission from a parent or legal guardian

As of publication, the Global Entry application fee is $120. It’s nonrefundable, regardless of whether your application is approved. When it’s time to renew, you’ll need to pay the application fee again.

Capital One provides a one-time statement credit of up to $120 once every four years when you use an eligible card to pay the fee. Capital One provides a $120 credit when you use an eligible card to pay the fee. Eligible Capital One cards include Venture, Venture X, Venture Business and Venture X Business.

Here are the steps to apply for Global Entry:

1. Open a TTP account. Create an online account for each person applying, including children.

2. Complete the application. Sign in to your TTP account, fill out the Global Entry application and pay the nonrefundable $120 fee.

3. Wait for conditional approval. According to CBP, the Global Entry conditional approval process takes about 2 weeks for most applicants. But if additional review is needed, it could take 12-24 months.

4. Schedule an in-person interview. After conditional approval, schedule your interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. 

5. Attend your Global Entry interview. You can either attend an interview you’ve scheduled or complete your interview when you return from an international trip through the CBP’s Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) process. Whichever option you choose, be sure you have the following with you: a valid passport, a document showing proof of residency such as a driver’s license, and a permanent resident card, if applicable.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, most applicants without a criminal history receive their Global Entry membership within 4-6 months. But timing for the Global Entry process can vary. While most people receive conditional approval within a couple of weeks, the full Global Entry process takes longer. This largely depends on how soon you can complete the interview. Appointments at some locations may be booked out for months.

Each application is processed individually, but these tips may help you speed things up:

• Look for new interview appointments. Enrollment Centers release interview slots on the first Monday of the month at 9 a.m. local time.

• Check for interview cancellations. Keep checking for last-minute openings.

• Choose a less-crowded airport. You can conduct your interview at an Enrollment Center or a participating airport. Airports that are less busy may have more available interview appointments.

• Try interviewing at an airport after a flight. At some airports, you can complete your interview when you return from an international trip as part of the CBP’s EoA process.

Whether Global Entry is worth it depends on how often you travel internationally. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends the program for travelers who take 4 or more international trips a year.

While Global Entry is an option for frequent international travelers, it’s not the only program that can save you time while traveling. If you travel mostly within the U.S., TSA PreCheck might be an alternative to Global Entry. If you travel frequently to Canada or Mexico, you might consider the NEXUS or SENTRI programs.

Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the Global Entry program:

When traveling abroad, Global Entry can streamline reentry into the U.S. And it also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.

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