Everything You Need to Know About Global Entry

The Global Entry program is a valuable resource for travelers looking to streamline their entry into the United States. With Global Entry, you can avoid long lines and wait times at customs and immigration, making your travel experience much more convenient. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Global Entry program, including who is eligible, how to apply and the benefits of having it.

Everything-You-Need-to-Know-About-Global-Entry

What is the Global Entry program?

The Global Entry program offered by the United States Customs and Border Protection(CBP) is an advantageous initiative for pre-approved, low-risk travelers wanting to save the time upon entering the U.S. As a member of this program, you have access to special kiosks in designated airports which streamline your immigration process without having to wait in line for a CBP officer.

You must also pass a background check and an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Once approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can use to take advantage of Global Entry benefits.

Who Is Eligible for Global Entry?

Citizens and legal permanent residents of the United States and citizens of certain other countries are eligible to apply for the Global Entry program. The specific eligibility requirements vary based on your country of citizenship and your criminal history, but generally, you must be at least 18 years old and have a clean criminal record.

In addition to citizenship and age requirements, a few other factors may impact your eligibility for the Global Entry program. For example, you may not be eligible if you’ve ever been arrested, even if you were acquitted. Similarly, if you’ve violated customs or immigration laws or provided false or incomplete information on your application, you may not be approved for the program.

How to Apply for Global Entry?

If you’re interested in applying for the Global Entry program, the first step is to create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account on the CBP website. From there, you’ll be able to start your application and provide the necessary documentation.

Here are the steps to follow when applying for Global Entry:

  1. Signup and make a TTP account and log in.
  2. Complete the online application and pay the non-refundable $100 application fee.
  3. Schedule and appear for an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. You can do this through your TTP account.
  4. Gather the required documentation. This may include your passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, and other documentation proving your identity and citizenship.
  5. Attend the in-person interview at the Global Entry Enrollment Center. During the interview, a CBP officer will review your application and ask questions about your travel and criminal history.
  6. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and instructions on how to use the Global Entry kiosks at participating airports.

Benefits of Having Global Entry

There are several benefits to having Global Entry, including faster entry into the United States and access to TSA Precheck. Here are some of the top benefits of the program:

  • Faster entry into the United States: With Global Entry, you can use designated kiosks to complete the customs and immigration process rather than waiting in line to speak with a CBP officer. This can save you significant time and make your travel experience much more convenient.
  • Access to TSA Precheck: Global Entry members also receive TSA Precheck benefits, which allow you to use expedited security lanes at participating airports. This can save you time and hassle when going through security.
  • Other perks and benefits: Global Entry members may also be eligible for additional perks and benefits, such as access to priority lanes at certain airports and the ability to enter the United States through certain land, sea, and air ports of entry not have Global Entry kiosks.

How to Renew Your Global Entry Membership

Global Entry membership is valid for five years, after which you’ll need to renew your membership to continue using the program’s benefits. The renewal process is similar to the initial application process. You’ll need to complete an online application, pay the renewal fee, and schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.

Remember, renew your Global Entry membership before expiration, or you will have to reapply for the program and pay the full application fee again. However, there is a way around that! In case of any pending renewal requests before their expiry date, print out the pending request as proof and present it at customs to access all benefits associated with Global Entry.

Global Entry for Families

Families can also apply for the Global Entry program, and all family members who are approved will receive their Known Traveler Numbers (KTNs). To apply as a family, you’ll need to create a TTP account and complete the online application for each family member. You’ll also need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center for each family member.

There are several benefits to having Global Entry for families, including using the program’s expedited entry benefits for all family members and access to TSA Precheck for all approved members.

Global Entry vs TSA Precheck

Global Entry and TSA Precheck are two different programs, but they do have some overlap. Global entry is a Customs and Border Protection program that allows expedited entry into the United States for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. TSA Precheck is a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) program that allows expedited security screening for pre-approved travelers at participating airports.

One key difference between the two programs is the eligibility requirements. Global Entry is open to citizens and legal permanent residents of the United States, as well as citizens of certain other countries. At the same time, TSA Precheck is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and legal permanent residents. Additionally, the application and renewal process for the two programs is slightly different.

When deciding between Global Entry and TSA Precheck, you must consider your travel needs and determine which program fits you best. If you frequently travel internationally and want to streamline the customs and immigration process, Global Entry may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you mostly travel within the United States and want to expedite the security screening process, TSA Precheck may be a better fit.

Conclusion

The Global Entry program is a valuable resource for travelers looking to streamline their entry into the United States. Suppose you’re a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States or a citizen of a participating country and meet the eligibility requirements. In that case, you can take advantage of the program’s benefits. With Global Entry, you can enjoy faster entry into the United States, access to TSA Precheck, and other perks and benefits. If you’re interested in applying for Global Entry, follow the steps outlined in this post and consider the program’s benefits and eligibility requirements.