One of the worst things about airports is the wait times. You wait to check your bags, wait to get through security, wait to board, and wait for a taxi. What if there was a way to reduce the amount of waiting?
If you’re a frequent international traveler, it’s time you took a closer look at the global entry program sponsored by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency. Let’s learn more about what this program offers and whether or not it’s right for you. Let’s dive in!
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What Is Global Entry?
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency, global entry is a “program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.” Its goal is to speed up the entry process and eliminate wait times, much like an EZ Pass lane at toll booths or the Express Check-Out lane at a grocery store.
However, this expedited process isn’t available at all airports. Members of the global entry program enter the U.S. by accessing this technology only at selected airports. There’s also a rigorous application process.
What Is the Purpose Of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency?
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency is a law enforcement organization charged with keeping terrorists and their weapons out of the U.S. The agency also facilitates lawful international travel and trade through border management and control, immigration and border security, and agricultural protection. Its purpose is to protect the American people and our borders.
Who Is Eligible For Global Entry?
Not everyone is eligible to be part of the global entry program. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are allowed to apply. In addition, citizens of Argentina, Brazil, Bahrain, India, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, and Taiwan are eligible for global entry membership.
Mexican nationals can also apply. Canadian citizens and residents are eligible but should go through the membership process in the NEXUS program.
However, if you have been convicted of any criminal offense, have pending criminal charges or outstanding warrants, or are the subject of an ongoing investigation, you may not be permitted to apply for global entry. Also, children can participate in the global entry program even if their parents aren’t members.
What Are the Benefits of Global Entry?
The global entry program aims to reduce wait times and speed up the process at busy airports. Therefore, the benefits of this program include no processing lines and no paperwork. Members receive expedited entry benefits in other countries, too. Most major U.S. airports participate in the program, so when you arrive in the U.S., you can check in at the global entry kiosk and then be on your way home.
What Airports Participate In the Global Entry Program?
To date, seventy-seven international airports participate in the global entry program. The entire list is here, but it includes U.S. airports in Miami, Charlotte, Los Angeles, Seattle, Houston, Salt Lake City, New York, Baltimore, Chicago, and more. Other locations include Abu Dhabi International Airport, Bermuda International Airport, Dublin Airport, and Toronto Pearson International Airport, among others.
When you arrive at an airport, find the global entry kiosk. These touchless portals use biometric facial comparison technology to enhance the experience for both travelers and border patrol officers. You won’t receive a paper receipt either; it’s a wholly streamlined, touchless system for international travelers.
Simply align your face with the silhouette on the screen after removing glasses, face coverings, hats, etc. After accepting your photo, the kiosk will display a “Processing Completed Please Proceed” message for you to move on to the exit line. You might receive an “Insert Travel Document” message. Then, you’ll need to scan your travel document. Once accepted, you’ll be cleared to move on.
How To Apply For Global Entry
If you’re interested in skipping the lines and saving time while traveling internationally, it’s a simple process. First, you must create a Trusted Travelers Programs (TTP) account. Then, log in to your TTP account to complete the global entry application. Be prepared to pay a $100 one-time fee when you submit the application. This is non-refundable even if you’re denied.
Application processing time for the global entry program is anywhere from four to six months. The government will conduct a full background check during this time. If your application is conditionally approved, you’ll receive an alert in your TTP account asking you to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. This is the final step in the application process. Make sure to bring your valid passport and one other form of identification to the interview.
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Is the Global Entry Program Worth It?
When you create your account for the Trusted Travelers Programs, you’ll notice other options besides the global entry program. All of them are valid for five years. The only one that includes the TSA PreCheck and dozens of international airports is the global entry program.
However, the NEXUS and Sentri programs may include the PreCheck. NEXUS is exclusively for travelers between Canada and the U.S. Sentri is solely for travelers between Mexico and the U.S. If you only travel between these countries, these two programs might be better options. However, the processing time is much longer, up to 14 months.
The global entry program may be a good fit if you frequently travel internationally outside of Canada and Mexico. It will reduce the headaches and wait times associated with airports and security. As long as you’re a law-abiding U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you have no reason to be denied. While the application process takes several months and requires an in-person interview, the global entry program is worth it for frequent international flyers.
Is this program a good option for you and your travels?
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Last update on 2026-06-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
