Now that travelers are officially in the REAL ID era, all the talk about travel tips and making your vacations as smooth as possible are totally top of the brain.
While you put the finishing touches on getting your new ID, passport renewal, or enhanced license, why not add one more to your checklist: Global Entry.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a travel program issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that lets pre-approved, low-risk travelers speed through customs when entering the United States.
Members can skip long lines by using dedicated kiosks at participating airports, making re-entry faster and less stressful.
Plus, U.S. citizens and permanent residents enrolled in Global Entry automatically get TSA PreCheck benefits, which means quicker security screening when departing U.S. airports-no need to remove shoes, belts, laptops, or liquids.
How does Global Entry work?
Once you get approved for Global Entry (we’ll outline the steps below), it’s pretty easy to use at the airport.
When you arrive back in the U.S. from abroad, simply head towards the Global Entry kiosks in the customs area.
Instead of waiting in a long line with general passport holders to get through, you can simply use the kiosk with facial recognition that will scan your face. No need to scan a passport or fingerprint!
From there, you’ll have to answer customs declaration questions on the screen (like what goods you’re bringing into the country) and you’ll be on your way. Super simple.
Who is eligible for Global Entry?
So, who’s eligible for this special pass back into the country? Well, you must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of certain other countries with special agreement to get Global Entry.
Other country residents that can get Global Entry are people from Argentina, Brazil, Bahrain, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. (Canadian citizens can access Global Entry benefits through the NEXUS program.)
Individuals applying for Global Entry must be 18 years old, or minors may apply with parental consent.
How to apply for Global Entry
We now walk you through the simple process of acquiring Global Entry!
Step 1: Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account
The first step in the process is creating a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account assigned to your name, the person who is applying for Global Entry.
Step 2: Log in to your TTP account and complete the application
Once your account is made, you will fill out the online application. The application includes personal information, travel history, background questions, and more.
Applicants will also have to pay a non-refundable $120 application fee online to be considered.
Step 3: Schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center
Once your application has been submitted, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will review it and if it’s approved, you will be instructed to set up an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
Keep in mind that most applications are approved within 2 weeks, but some can take up to a year. So don’t wait until the last second!
Step 4: Complete the application process
When you reach the interview process, be sure to bring your valid passport and another form of government-issued ID. The interview will consist of another round of questions regarding travel history, and other info.
They will also collect your fingerprints and photo for future usage.
Step 5: Receive your Global Entry card
After your interview, you’ll receive a notice on your Global Entry status via your TTP account and email.
If approved, your Global Entry status will become active immediately and your new card will come in the mail later on.
How to get Global Entry for free
Would you believe us if we said that you can actually get Global Entry at no charge? Here’s how.
To do so, look into specific credit cards that offers a statement credit to cover the application fee.
Common travel credit cards like Capital One Venture, Venture X, Spark Miles, Citi/AAdvantage Executive Mastercard, and several others will reimburse you up to $120 for the Global Entry application fee when you pay for it with the card.
Check your credit card’s travel benefits or contact your card issuer to see if you’re eligible for a Global Entry fee credit.