Beyond the post-vacation blues, there’s nothing that twists the dagger more than arriving at customs after your very long return flight and waiting in an endless line. That’s why Global Entry has become a popular program for frequent travelers in recent years providing expedited custom processing. And now, minors under the age of 18 don’t have to pay the application fee under certain circumstances.
In order for children 18 and under to get free Global Entry, their parent or guardian must be enrolled in a Trusted Traveler Program, be it SENTRI, NEXUS, or Global Entry.
If a guardians application status to any of the above are in conditional approval or pending risk, the minor’s application fee will still be waived. This is all part of a new ruling that was first introduced on October 1, 2024. Previously, Global Entry applications for minors cost a $120 application fee.
There are currently over 12 million travelers enrolled in Global Entry. Note, the entire approval process can be a bit lengthy, first receiving your conditional approval after initial vetting, then needing to schedule an interview.
Similar to adults applying for Global Entry, minors will need to schedule an interview all the same, with a guardian present.
According to National Security Law Firm, Global Entry can save travelers up to more than an hour at the airport, with automatic TSA PreCheck and bypassing traditional custom lines.
You can learn more about Global Entry for you and minors on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection online.