Why Get Global Entry Benefits And How To Apply

Traveling frequently through U.S. international airports often means long waits at customs and immigration. For many, the solution lies in a trusted traveler program called Global Entry. Designed for low-risk travelers, Global Entry offers expedited processing upon return to the United States from international destinations. Beyond convenience, the program delivers tangible time savings, reduced stress, and access to additional travel benefits. Understanding its advantages and navigating the application process can transform your travel experience.

What Is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to enter the country quickly using automated kiosks at select airports. Instead of waiting in traditional inspection lines, members scan their passport or permanent resident card, undergo fingerprint verification, and receive a receipt—typically in under five minutes.

The program is available to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, certain visa holders, and nationals from select partner countries such as South Korea, Germany, and Taiwan. Applicants must pass a rigorous background check and attend an in-person interview at an enrollment center.

“Global Entry isn’t just about speed—it’s about predictability. You know exactly how long re-entry will take, which is invaluable for business travelers.” — Sarah Lin, International Business Consultant

Key Benefits of Global Entry

The primary advantage of Global Entry is time saved during the customs clearance process. But the benefits extend well beyond faster airport processing.

• Expedited U.S. Re-Entry: Bypass standard CBP lines and use self-service kiosks at over 50 U.S. airports and select preclearance locations abroad.
• TSA PreCheck Included: All approved Global Entry members automatically receive TSA PreCheck benefits, allowing them to keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on and leave laptops and liquids in carry-ons.
• Access to NEXUS Lanes (in Canada): At participating Canadian airports with NEXUS kiosks, Global Entry members may use dedicated lanes when returning to the U.S. via land or sea ports from Canada.
• Reduced Travel Stress: Predictable wait times help reduce anxiety, especially after long-haul flights.
• Cost Efficiency Over Time: At $100 for a five-year membership, the cost breaks down to $20 per year—less than many single airport lounge passes.

Tip: Even if you don’t fly internationally every month, occasional trips make Global Entry worthwhile due to cumulative time savings and TSA PreCheck inclusion.

How to Apply for Global Entry: Step-by-Step Guide

Gaining Global Entry approval involves several stages, each essential to ensuring program integrity. Follow this sequence carefully to maximize your chances of success.

1. Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) Account: Visit the official CBP website and register at ttp.dhs.gov. Provide basic personal information including full legal name, address, and employment details.
2. Submit Your Application: Complete the online form, which includes questions about criminal history, immigration violations, and past customs issues. Be honest—false statements result in denial or revocation.
3. Pay the Non-Refundable Fee: The application costs $100, payable online via credit card. This covers the processing and interview.
4. Wait for Preliminary Review: CBP will conduct a background check. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Some applicants receive “conditional approval” during this phase.
5. Schedule an Interview: Once conditionally approved, log back into your TTP account to schedule an appointment at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. These are located at major airports and some land border crossings.
6. Attend the In-Person Interview: Bring your passport, proof of residency (if applicable), and any other required documents. The interview typically lasts 10–15 minutes and includes fingerprinting.
7. Receive Final Decision: Most applicants are approved on the spot. You’ll receive a notification via email and your Known Traveler Number (KTN) shortly after.

Where to Find Enrollment Centers

As of 2024, there are over 150 enrollment centers across the U.S. and select international locations. Use the CBP Enrollment Center Locator to find one near you. Some centers allow walk-ins, but appointments are strongly recommended.

Comparison: Global Entry vs. Other Trusted Traveler Programs

Program	Cost (5 Years)	Primary Benefit	TSA PreCheck Included?	Best For
Global Entry	$100	Fast U.S. customs re-entry	Yes	Frequent international travelers
TSA PreCheck	$78	Domestic security lane access	Yes	Domestic-only flyers
NEXUS	$50 (USD)	U.S.-Canada expedited entry	Yes	Binationals or frequent cross-border travelers
SENTRI	$122.25	U.S.-Mexico land border access	No	Drivers crossing southern border regularly

Tip: If you're eligible for NEXUS, it’s more cost-effective and includes Global Entry benefits for air travel, making it ideal for those who cross the Canadian border frequently.

Real-World Example: A Business Traveler’s Experience

James R., a financial consultant based in Chicago, travels to London and Frankfurt multiple times per quarter. Before enrolling in Global Entry, he routinely spent 45–60 minutes clearing customs after transatlantic flights. Delays sometimes caused him to miss connecting domestic flights or arrive late to client meetings.

After applying—submitting his application online, attending an interview at O’Hare Airport, and receiving approval within two weeks—his re-entry process changed dramatically. Now, he averages less than eight minutes at the kiosk. “It’s not just about saving time,” he says. “It’s about starting my trip grounded and prepared, not frazzled from standing in line.”

He also uses his TSA PreCheck benefit on domestic legs, keeping his workflow uninterrupted. For James, the $100 fee paid for itself within three trips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Application

While the Global Entry application is straightforward, errors can delay or derail approval. Watch out for these pitfalls:

• Incomplete Background Disclosure: Failing to report even minor infractions (e.g., a dismissed charge) can lead to denial.
• Missing Documentation: Arriving without a valid passport or proof of legal status results in rescheduling the interview.
• Choosing a Distant Enrollment Center: Some applicants apply without checking center availability nearby, leading to long drives or delays.
• Waiting Until Last Minute: Processing can take weeks. Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your next international trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can children join Global Entry?

Yes. Children of all ages can apply, but minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during the interview. They must answer the same eligibility questions.

Is Global Entry worth it if I only travel internationally once a year?

Even infrequent travelers benefit. Consider the included TSA PreCheck alone, which enhances every flight you take—domestic or international. Plus, one smooth re-entry experience can justify the fee.

What happens if my application is denied?

You’ll receive a notice explaining the reason. While appeals are limited, you can reapply after one year. Some denials stem from incomplete forms rather than eligibility issues, so review carefully before resubmitting.

Final Checklist Before Applying

Verify Eligibility:

Confirm you’re a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible national from a participating country.

Gather Documents:

Valid passport, government-issued ID, and proof of residency (if not a citizen).

Review Travel History:

Be prepared to disclose all international trips over the last five years.

Check Enrollment Center Availability:

Use the CBP locator tool to find open appointment slots near you.

Prepare for the Interview:

Dress professionally, arrive early, and answer all questions truthfully.

Conclusion: Make Your International Travel Smoother Today

Global Entry is more than a convenience—it’s a strategic investment in smarter, less stressful travel. With fast-track customs clearance, built-in TSA PreCheck, and long-term cost efficiency, the program pays dividends across both business and leisure journeys. The application process is manageable when approached methodically, and the payoff begins the moment you step off your first returning flight.

🚀 Ready to skip the line? Start your Global Entry application today at ttp.dhs.gov and reclaim hours lost to airport queues.