If you’ve traveled internationally, you know the frustration of long customs lines after a long flight. The Global Entry Program offers a solution—faster entry into the United States, less hassle, and more time saved. At Rebecca Black Immigration, PA, we help clients navigate the complexities of travel, immigration, and trusted traveler programs. Here’s everything you should know about Global Entry, including how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What is the Global Entry Program?
Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to bypass traditional customs lines and use automated kiosks at participating U.S. airports. After scanning your passport and fingerprints, you can clear customs in just a few minutes instead of waiting in long lines.
A major bonus is that Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, making domestic travel easier too. With TSA PreCheck, you can keep your shoes, belts, and light jackets on at security and leave laptops and liquids in your bag.
Benefits of Global Entry
The most obvious benefit is time savings. Frequent travelers, especially those flying for business, appreciate skipping long airport lines after an international flight. Global Entry is valid for five years, and since it includes TSA PreCheck, it also speeds up domestic airport security.
Many travelers say the peace of mind is just as valuable as the time saved. Knowing you can get home faster after a long trip is a big relief.
Who is Eligible for Global Entry?
Global Entry is open to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and certain foreign nationals from approved countries. Applicants must pass a background check and have no criminal record or prior immigration violations.
If you have any history of visa overstays, arrests, or prior travel issues, your application could be denied. This is where having an immigration attorney review your situation can make a difference.
How to Apply for Global Entry
Applying for Global Entry involves several steps:
First, you’ll need to create an account on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website. After filling out the online application and paying the $100 non-refundable fee, CBP will conduct a background check. If you pass the initial screening, you will receive conditional approval and be able to schedule an in-person interview.
The interview is held at a Global Entry Enrollment Center, often located at major U.S. airports. You’ll need to bring your valid passport and another form of identification, such as a driver’s license or green card. During the interview, a CBP officer will take your fingerprints, review your application, and ask a few travel-related questions. If approved, your membership will be valid for five years.
Common Reasons for Denial
Even qualified travelers can be denied Global Entry for reasons like incomplete applications, past immigration violations, or minor criminal records. If you’ve been denied, our team can help you understand the reason, explore appeal options, or determine whether a reapplication is possible.
Why Choose Rebecca Black Immigration, PA?
While most travelers with a clean record can handle the application themselves, anyone with a complex immigration history or prior issues should consider professional guidance. At Rebecca Black Immigration, PA, we help clients:
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Determine if they are eligible before applying
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Avoid mistakes that can lead to delays or denials
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Handle appeals if a Global Entry application is rejected
Our goal is to make international travel smoother and less stressful for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which credit cards cover the Global Entry application fee?
Many travel credit cards, like Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Platinum, and Capital One Venture X, offer Global Entry fee reimbursement every 4–5 years. -
Is there a way to speed up the Global Entry interview process?
Yes. Travelers can use the Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) program to complete their interview after landing from an international flight at participating U.S. airports. -
Can Global Entry be used at land borders?
Yes. Global Entry kiosks are available at some U.S.–Canada and U.S.–Mexico land border crossings, allowing faster re-entry for approved travelers. -
Does Global Entry work at U.S. preclearance airports abroad?
Yes. Locations like Dublin, Abu Dhabi, and Toronto have U.S. Customs preclearance, where Global Entry members can clear customs before boarding their flight. -
Is an interview always required for Global Entry?
Yes, but renewal applicants may sometimes be approved without an interview if CBP does not require updated biometrics or background review. -
Can I walk in for a Global Entry interview without an appointment?
Some airports allow walk-in interviews, but availability is limited and not guaranteed. Checking online for appointments is recommended. -
Do Global Entry kiosks require a physical card?
No. At airports, Global Entry is biometric-based (passport + fingerprints), but the physical card is useful for land border crossings. -
What happens if I lose my Global Entry card?
You can request a replacement card through your TTP account for a small fee. -
Can Global Entry be used for cruise ship arrivals?
No. Currently, Global Entry is not available for cruise passengers, but some ports participate in the CBP Mobile Passport program. -
What is the difference between Global Entry and Mobile Passport Control?
Global Entry requires a paid membership and background check, while Mobile Passport Control is free but does not include TSA PreCheck or the fastest entry lanes. -
Do I need Global Entry if I already have TSA PreCheck?
If you only travel domestically, TSA PreCheck is enough. If you travel internationally, Global Entry offers faster U.S. re-entry plus TSA PreCheck. -
Can Global Entry status be revoked?
Yes. Violations like undeclared goods, security breaches, or arrests can result in membership cancellation. -
Does Global Entry work for connecting flights?
Yes. You can use Global Entry kiosks to clear customs quickly, making tight connections easier when re-entering the U.S. -
Can non-U.S. citizens apply for Global Entry?
Yes, but only citizens of specific countries are eligible, such as Germany, India, the UK, and South Korea. -
How does Global Entry work for families traveling together?
Each family member, including infants, needs their own Global Entry membership to use the expedited lanes. -
Can Global Entry help if I have a short international layover?
Yes. The automated kiosks drastically reduce wait times, which can prevent missed connections. -
Do Global Entry kiosks always work with facial recognition?
Many kiosks now use facial biometrics, but some still require fingerprints and passport scans. -
Is Global Entry available 24/7 at airports?
Most international arrival terminals with kiosks operate 24/7, but staffing for interviews may be limited to certain hours. -
Can I switch my appointment to another airport?
Yes. You can reschedule interviews at any enrollment center through your TTP account, often finding earlier availability at smaller airports. -
How long is the wait for a Global Entry appointment in 2025?
In 2025, wait times can range from a few weeks to several months, but Enrollment on Arrival is often the fastest option.
Start Your Global Entry Application with Confidence
The Global Entry Program is one of the best investments for frequent travelers, saving you time at the airport and providing peace of mind. If you’re considering applying or have been denied in the past, Rebecca Black Immigration, PA can guide you through the process from start to finish.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you travel smarter and faster.
