Traveling internationally can be a hassle. Between long lines at the airport and filling out customs forms, it’s no wonder that so many people choose to stay home.
The process of traveling internationally can be time-consuming and frustrating. You have to stand in line at the airport, fill out customs forms, and often wait for your luggage.
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. With Global Entry, you can bypass the regular passport control line and go directly to the kiosks to have your passport scanned, and fingerprints taken.
In this post, I will explain Global Entry, and I will give you the essential information about it that you need to know before applying.
What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon their arrival in the United States.
Members enter the United States through automatic kiosks at specific airports, rather than undergoing the traditional process of being interviewed by a CBP officer.
The Global Entry program uses a risk-based assessment to determine low-risk travelers, so not everyone who applies will be approved.
It’s important to note that being a member of Global Entry does not guarantee entry into the United States – all travelers are still subject to inspection by CBP officers.
Details for Global Entry
● A five-year membership costs $100 ($20 per year).
● Allows low-risk passengers to use expedited security checkpoints upon arrival in the United States.
● Over 70 airports have it.
● TSA PreCheck membership is included.
Global Entry expedites the immigration and customs process when you arrive in the United States. As a member, you can bypass the immigration line by going to a Global Entry kiosk. You then scan your passport or U.S. permanent resident card as well as your fingertips, answer customs declaration questions, and receive a receipt.
Global Entry kiosks are only available to members. Children and spouses, as well as travel companions, must have their memberships.
You can bypass the Global Entry immigration counter by presenting your receipt from the kiosk. You can also use the Global Entry line at customs, which is usually faster than the standard line. Membership, like TSA PreCheck does not guarantee an expedited security process every time.
With Global Entry, the entry process to the United States is much faster. While waiting in the immigration line can easily take half an hour or more, using a Global Entry kiosk takes less than a minute.
Global Entry is an excellent value for international travelers, especially considering the membership fee of $20 per year. This program is enhanced by the inclusion of a TSA PreCheck membership. Being a member of Global Entry entitles you to all of the benefits of both programs. Several credit cards offer a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit to help you get through airport security faster.
How do I apply for Global Entry?
To enroll in Global Entry, follow these steps:
● Go to the Department of Homeland Security’s website and navigate the Trusted Traveler Programs page.
● In the Global Entry section, click “Get Started.”
● Create an account with Trusted Traveler Programs.
● Apply for Global Entry and pay the non-refundable application fee. If you have a credit card that covers the Global Entry fee, make sure to use it.
● You will be able to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center if your application is conditionally approved.
You must bring a valid passport and one other form of identification to the interview. You must get your machine-readable permanent resident card if you are a lawful permanent resident.
When you join Global Entry, you will be given a membership card and your KTN. However, you do not need the membership card to use the Global Entry benefits.
To verify your identity and membership status, Global Entry kiosks scan your fingerprint. You can use your KTN to get TSA PreCheck benefits when booking air travel.
How Much Is Global Entry?
Individual
It’s $100 for a five-year membership. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
Family
The cost is $100 per person, and you are allowed up to four people in your family.
As a member of Global Entry, you will have access to TSA Pre✓™, which allows you to go through security without taking off your shoes, belt, or jacket. You will also bypass the long customs lines when returning to the United States.
Can I Get Global Entry For Free?
Yes, there are a few ways to get a global entry for free. The first way is to have an American Express Platinum Card because Amex will reimburse you for the cost of Global Entry.
The second way is to have a Department of Homeland Security trusted traveler programs like NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST. If you have one of these programs, you automatically qualify for Global Entry membership.
Finally, some companies and organizations will reimburse their employees for the cost of Global Entry membership.
So if you’re not sure whether you can get it for free or not, ask your employer if they offer a reimbursement program.
Where can I use Global Entry?
In addition to the United States, several other countries participate in Global Entry, including:
● Argentina
● India
● Colombia
● United Kingdom
● Germany
● Panama
● Singapore
● Korea, South
● Switzerland
● Taiwan
● Mexico (nationals)
Global Entry has over 5 million people enrolled, and as more enrollment centers open, the program will likely grow in popularity. If you travel internationally regularly, then Global Entry is definitely worth it.
I hope this article provided you with some insight on Global Entry, its benefits, and how it can save you time at the airport. With new major updates to the program recently announced, now is definitely the perfect time to apply!
Thanks for Reading!
