Global Entry: what it is and how to apply (2023)

Global Entry is a US government pay-per-play program that allows its members to pass passport and immigration control when they return to the United States from abroad. They do this by putting all applicants through a series of background checks and interviews to ensure they qualify as low-risk travelers.

Since this program is run by the same agency that offers itTSA-PreCheck, Department of Homeland Security, and overlapping requirements, Global Entry members receive TSA Precheck benefits without paying a separate application fee. This makes Global Entry very easy for all passengers who want to save time not only when returning from abroad, but also on domestic flights.

How does Global Entry work?

Global Entry works by shortlisting all applicants and running a background check to classify them as safe. Once this decision is made, members will be granted expedited entry into the country upon their return to the United States.

After landing your international flight at one of the participating US airports, all you have to do is follow the signs that will direct you to the Global Entry kiosks, usually a completely separate area from immigration, where you will be asked to show your passport or other form of identification, enter your Global Entry or Trusted Traveler number or simply take a photo at the latest version of the kiosks so that facial recognition software can identify you.

Once ready, the kiosk will guide you to follow the signs to the exit and you can print an interaction voucher with your data and a photo, or simply forward it to an employee to ask if you have something to declare. Your next step is baggage claim and you'll be on your way home in no time.

Global Entry also offers the benefits of its program at a total of 15 international airports where the US allows pre-approval to enter the country before you board your flight. This means that all paperwork to enter the United States is completed before you are physically in the country, and once you land, all you have to do is pick up your luggage and head home. Plus, if your pre-approved flight has a connecting flight after landing in the US, you'll save time by bypassing a TSA checkpoint and going directly to the gate of the connecting flight without having to re-check in your suitcases.

However, quick access to customs does not mean that you are exempt from their regulations. According to the Customs and Border Protection Agency website, "While the goal of Global Entry is to expedite the process for travelers, members may still be screened for additional screening upon entering the United States."

If you are traveling with family, everyone in your party must be a Global Entry member to take advantage of the program, including your minor children. Unlike TSA Precheck, minors do not enjoy Global Entry benefits when traveling with their parents unless they also have a paid membership.

How much is the global entry?

A 5-year membership in the program will cost $100 and can be paid for online as part of your registration. So you can use any credit or debit card.

However, this is worth noting.Several high-end travel credit cards come with Global EntryCredit as a benefit that you can use as a means of payment for your registration and the full amount will be returned to you in the form of a credit.
Some of the premium cards that credit the full Global Entry application fee (up to $100 in statement credit) every four years are:

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card(Conditions apply)
• Reserva Chase Sapphire®(Conditions apply)
• La Platinum Card® de American Express(Conditions apply, ifPrices and rates)
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® Tarjeta American Express®(Conditions apply, ifPrices and rates)
• Aeroplan® credit card(Conditions apply)
• La Business Platinum Card® de American Express(Conditions apply, ifPrices and rates)

How to request the global quote

Applying is a simple and straightforward process. All you have to do to apply is headDHS website dedicated to the programand fill out all the necessary forms. Once submitted, your information will be reviewed by the agency and an eligibility decision will be made. If you are granted conditional admission, you will need to schedule an interview at one of the locations listed on the website. If you are planning international travel, you can also schedule an interview upon arrival, depending on the airport you first land in the United States.

It's worth noting that DHS is extending participation in its Trusted Traveler programs to US citizens and permanent residents only. Citizens of other select countries can apply for Global Entry, although requirements may vary depending on your country of origin.

Membership can be revoked at the discretion of the agency, such as failing to declare prohibited or restricted assets in the country, being convicted of a crime, or conducting federal investigations. Application fees will not be refunded if your application is rejected. So make sure you meet the eligibility criteria before you apply.

How long does global entry take?

Membership in the program is granted for a total of 5 years and must be renewed if you wish to continue participating in the program. There is no limit to the number of times you can continue to renew your membership every five years.

How to renew the global ticket

Every 5 years, before your subscription expires, you have the option to renew the program for another 5 years. You can do this on the same website where your original signature is stored. Since processing times are generally slow, you can start your renewal process in the last year before expiration and continue to receive benefits for up to 24 months after expiration if your renewal is not processed on time.

Extension costs are the same as for an initial application. You may not need to take another interview if you renew your application, but please note that if your membership expires, you will need to reapply and may be subject to another interview.

Processing time for a new application is typically 4-6 months and it can be difficult to find availability for in-person interviews. Be sure to check your membership expiration dates.

final result

Global Entry is a paid government program that can quickly and efficiently guide you through the immigration process upon arrival in the United States. You skip the long lines at physical passport control and head to an automated kiosk for processing. Membership lasts 5 years and the $100 membership fee can be credited to many of the credit cards you already have in your wallet, making it a great addition to your travel toolkit.

For prices and fees for the American Express Platinum Card®, visitthis page.
For Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card fees and charges, visitthis page.
For prices and fees for the American Express Business Platinum Card®, visitthis page.