9 things you need to know about Global Entry

Global Entry is a simple way to speed up your journey if you regularly fly internationally.

Available across the US, it’s easy to apply for a Global Entry membership — and you can use special Global Entry kiosks instead of going through customs every time you fly.

We’ve put together everything you need to know about Global Entry before sending an application — including costs, top tips, and how to renew your membership online.

What is Global Entry and how does it work?

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program available for low-risk travelers. You can use Global Entry when coming back into the US from abroad.

Instead of waiting for someone to check your documents, simply head to the Global Entry line. At a Global Entry kiosk, you can present your passport or US Green Card, scan your fingerprints, and complete a customs declaration.

If you regularly travel internationally, this program can help to expedite US immigration and customs, and you can avoid long processing lines or time-consuming paperwork.

Global Entry is 100 USD for a 5-year membership. It’s available at many major airports in the US, such as Stewart International Airport in New York and Pittsburgh International Airport.¹

Want to know more about the Global Entry program? Check our full guide

9 benefits of Global Entry for international travel

There are many benefits of Global Entry if you love to fly across the world. We’ve put together a few things to consider.

1. You don't need to be an American citizen to use Global Entry

You don’t need to be a US citizen to use Global Entry for international travel. It’s available to non-US citizens and permanent residents of other countries, too.

The list of eligible countries currently includes Argentina, Brazil, Bahrain, India, Colombia, Germany, the Netherlands, the UK, Panama, South Korea, Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, and Mexico.²

2. You can complete your Global Entry upon arrival

It can often take a while for an interview slot to come up, or you may not live near an enrollment center. If this is the case, you can complete your interview on arrival back in the US.

You still need to complete an online application via the Trusted Traveler Program System, however, as you need conditional approval to qualify for your interview.

3. It's normal for Global Entry renewals to be delayed

If your Global Entry renewal is taking a while, don’t worry! As long as you submit your application before your last membership expires, CBP gives you up to 24 months to continue to use Global Entry benefits.¹

4. If you have kids, they need to enroll separately for Global Entry

Everyone in your family needs their own Global Entry membership. Unlike TSA PreCheck or Clear airport, children aren’t allowed to go through the Global Entry line with you — including babies.

The application process is the same for children, including the 100 USD fee. You’ll also need to book a separate interview for your child.

However, depending on the age of your little one, you may need to answer the questions for them — and a legal parent or guardian needs to be present during the interview.³

5. Global Entry can be updated if you get a new passport

If you get a new passport, you don’t need to get an additional Global Entry membership — but you do need to update your information.

Log in to your Global Entry account and make any necessary changes to update your membership. This means you can continue to scan your passport at Global Entry kiosks instead of getting your documents checked.⁴

6. Your Global Entry card is considered as a valid federal ID

Your Global Entry card is accepted as a valid form of federal ID. You can use your card for lawful US entry at land and sea ports of entry.

However, you’ll need your passport or permanent resident card when using a Global Entry kiosk at the airport.¹

When you receive your card, don’t forget to activate it via your Trusted Traveler Program account before your next trip.

7. You cannot update TSA PreCheck into Global Entry

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are different Trusted Traveler Programs. Although Global Entry automatically includes TSA PreCheck, TSA PreCheck doesn’t include Global Entry — and you can’t update TSA PreCheck into Global Entry.

If you want to get a Global Entry membership, you’ll need to apply for it separately.

8. You can use Global Entry kiosks when you travel

Global Entry kiosks let you scan your documents and fingerprint data instead of waiting for a CBP official to physically verify your identity at the airport.

This means you can skip regular customs checks and expedite your airport clearance every time you travel.

9. You can get Global Entry for free with certain cards

Many credit card companies offer full reimbursement of your Global Entry membership, and your card may pay for your membership renewal, too.

This includes the Capital One® Venture X Credit Card⁵, Delta® SkyMiles Platinum Card⁶, United® Explorer Card, and more.⁷

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Applying for Global Entry: tips to get started

It’s simple to apply for Global Entry, but there are a few things to consider before you send off your first application.

To apply for Global Entry, you first need to fill out an online application form, which you can do via the Trusted Traveler Program System. It’s easy to get started — and you may already have an account if you’ve applied for a Trusted Traveler Program in the past.

The Global Entry interview

Once you’ve received conditional approval based on your digital application, you’ll be asked to book an interview.

This is typically up to 30 minutes, and it takes place at your local Global Entry enrollment center.⁸

You’ll be asked a few questions at your interview. You’ll also need to show any required documentation to a CBP officer.

This may include:
Proof of citizenship Your passport Your permanent resident card A valid driver’s license Proof of address⁹

However, make sure to read any pre-interview information carefully to double-check which pieces of documentation you need.

You will also give your fingerprints and a CBP officer will take a photograph of you for your application.

What questions are usually asked in the Global Entry interview?

A CBP officer may ask you a few questions about your travel history, your basic personal information, your job, any prior criminal convictions, and any other questions relating to your application.

Make sure to arrive for your interview on time and think about your answers. Be completely honest with the CBP officer and bring all the documents you need to enjoy a successful interview.

The Global Entry renewal process

You can renew your Global Entry membership up to 1 year before your program expires — and it’s very easy to do.

Head to the Trusted Traveler Program System and submit an updated online Global Entry application. Your details may be saved, but you’ll need to update your travel history and any other new information.

You’ll also need to pay 100 USD for your membership renewal. You may need to complete another Global Entry interview, including a document check. However, CBP will get in touch with you about any further action required on your application.¹

How long does it take to apply for Global Entry?

Once you complete your Global Entry application online, it may take a while for CBP to process your application.

Due to the volume of applications, you may not hear about the status of your membership for several months. As of 13 July 2023, the CBP predicted processing time is 4-6 months.⁹

You may also find it takes a while for an interview slot to come up at your local enrollment center once you receive conditional approval. This is why many people choose Enrollment on Arrival.

Make sure to send off your initial Global Entry application with plenty of notice before your next trip to enjoy the benefits of your membership at the airport.

Using Global Entry for domestic flights

You can also use Global Entry for domestic travel, as your membership includes TSA PreCheck.

With availability at over 200 airports and 85+ participating airlines across the US, TSA PreCheck is great if you regularly travel between states.¹⁰

This program lets you go through security with your shoes, jacket, belt, electronics, and liquids — and you can also use a designated TSA PreCheck line.

Use TSA PreCheck and Global Entry in conjunction to make your airport journey as simple as possible.

Bottom line: is Global Entry worth the cost?

Global Entry lasts for 5 years and it costs 100 USD. If you regularly travel across the world, a membership may be worth the cost, as you can avoid long lines and inconvenient paperwork.

You can also enjoy the benefits of TSA PreCheck as part of your Global Entry application, helping you travel smoothly through security every time you fly within the US or internationally.

TSA PreCheck is a slightly cheaper alternative to Global Entry at 78 USD for 5 years. However, this program is best suited for domestic travel — and you can’t upgrade to Global Entry once you’ve applied.

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Global Entry is a helpful tool for international travel, but there are a few things you need to know before applying.

Remember to renew your membership before your old Global Entry card expires, and check with your credit company to see if you can access a reimbursement.

To find out how you can start spending like a local, check out Wise.

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Sources:

1. CBP

2. The Points Guy

3. Nerd Wallet

4. Swift Passport

5. Capital One

6. American Express

7. Chase

8. National Security Law Firm

9. Trusted Traveler Program

10. TSA

Sources checked on 07.19.2023