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Global Entry
Global Entry
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Global Entry is a program of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection service that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to receive expedited clearance upon arrival into the United States through automatic kiosks at select airports and via the SENTRI and NEXUS lanes by land and sea. As of 2024, Global Entry was available at 62 U.S. airports and 14 non-U.S. airports with U.S. preclearance,[1] and more than 12.7 million people were enrolled in the program.[2]

History

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During the 1990s and early 2000s, the US Immigration and Naturalization Service operated INSPASS, a trusted traveler program designed to integrate with Canadian and European programs, at JFK and Newark Airports. INSPASS operated with a similar system, identifying travelers with their handprint. The program was discontinued in 2002 when the INS was merged with U.S. Customs to form U.S. Customs and Border Protection.[3]

The Global Entry program was initially deployed in 2008 at a small number of airports, including New York-JFK (Terminal 4), Washington-Dulles and Houston-Intercontinental. Following a good reception by travelers, the program was expanded to include Los Angeles International, Atlanta-Hartsfield, Chicago-O'Hare and Miami International Airport.

In May 2009, Global Entry membership was expanded to include Netherlands citizens who are also members of the Dutch Privium trusted traveler program under the FLUX (Fast Low-risk Universal Crossing) alliance. Present members of Global Entry are now permitted to apply to join the Privium program at Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport allowing entry into the Schengen area. Members of NEXUS and SENTRI are also entitled to use Global Entry.[4]

2020 suspension of New York state residents

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New York's immigrant sanctuary "Green Light Law", enacted in 2020, prohibited its state DMV from sharing criminal records with the federal Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) without a court order.[5] New York provides driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, as over a dozen other states also do, though none of those other states placed as tight restrictions on the federal government's access to DMV records.[6]

In response to this, on February 6, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it would immediately prohibit New York state residents from applying for or renewing trusted traveler programs including Global Entry. This affected about 175,000 New Yorkers whose trusted traveler memberships would expire in 2020 and another 80,000 New Yorkers with pending applications.[7][8][9] The Trump administration said it would reinstate access to the trusted traveler programs if New York state opened its DMV records to the federal government.

New York did not immediately agree to these terms. The next day, state officials promised to sue the Trump administration. They said the lawsuit would argue that "the federal government's actions were arbitrary and capricious, did not provide state residents equal protection and violated the state's sovereign immunity," according to The New York Times.[6] New York attorney general Letitia James filed the lawsuit against CBP and DHS on February 10.[7]

However, on February 12, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said he would comply with the Trump administration's request. He said he would propose either a legislative bill or a change to the New York state budget to grant the federal government access to New York's motor vehicle data, but only to the records of trusted traveler applicants and members, and only on a case-by-case basis.[10] On February 13, Cuomo met with Trump at the White House; details of the meeting were not disclosed.[11]

On July 23, 2020, after New York amended its law to allow federal agencies access to state records of applicants to trusted traveler programs, the Department of Homeland Security reopened the programs for New York residents.[12]

Enrollment

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To enroll in Global Entry, applicants must first file an application with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and then submit to an interview and background check (which checks against multiple databases, including more than are used for a TSA PreCheck). The application includes employment history and residences for the prior five years.[13] After submission, applicants must wait for either conditional approval or rejection. If conditionally approved, all first-time applicants must schedule an appointment for an interview, photograph and fingerprints. The wait for an interview may be months to a year.[14] There is no minimum number of international trips required to qualify for the Global Entry program.

There is a non-refundable fee of US$120 due at the time of application (before consideration for conditional approval).[4] Children under age 18 are exempt from the fee if their parent or legal guardian is applying at the same time or is already a member. Before October 2024, the fee was US$100 for applicants of any age.[15] Some credit cards (generally those with relatively high annual fees) reimburse this fee to both the cardholder and household family members.

Global Entry membership card

During the interview, the applicant's fingerprints are captured and a digital photo is taken. Applicants are also given instructions on how to use the automated kiosk. The applicant is not always approved on-site, but the interviewing CBP officer makes the final determination and can mark full approval immediately to within 15 minutes or hours later the same day. In any case, the program sends both an email notification and a letter stating the outcome, and this message is sent upon the interviewing officer's input of their decision. The email directs applicants to login to their DHS TTP portal to view the outcome. The physical letter may contain a membership ID card (typically only included if requested via the DHS TTP web portal). However, the card is neither required for any aspect of the program and also cannot be used at kiosks (i.e., a passport is still required). If a participant does not receive a card or else needs a replacement, the member may request via the TTP portal.

An advantage to viewing the status online is that, if approved, the Known Traveler ID ("KTN", required to be provided to participating airlines in order to receive TSA PreCheck) is supplied and may be used immediately. Otherwise, the approved applicant has to wait for their KTN in the physically mailed letter.

Although an ID card serves no purpose during customs interactions, it can be used as a photo ID at U.S. airports and for entry into certain other federal buildings. Further, airports without dedicated PreCheck lanes occasionally allow cardholding members to bypass standard security: while they wait in line, a special paper is given and provided to the x-ray operator letting them know that the member does not need to remove liquids, computer or clothing. However, this practice is much more common for after-hours use (i.e., this process is often used once the staffed, dedicated PreCheck lane is closed). The card is also WHTI-compliant, meaning it can be used at U.S. land and sea crossings into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico, only by U.S. Citizens (entry from all other countries and entry via air from any country still require a passport). The card is RFID enabled, so it can be used in Ready Lanes at such border checkpoints (an RFID enabled card is required for SENTRI, NEXUS and Ready lanes because data must be read wirelessly in advance to allow border guards to preprocess passengers before the vehicle arrives at the crossing station). Further, Global Entry participants may also use the dedicated SENTRI and NEXUS lanes to enter the U.S. (vehicle approval may be required prior to using SENTRI lanes).

Once an application is approved, the applicant may use the Global Entry kiosk at any participating airport for a duration of five years. The five year period begins at the member's next birthday following approval. So for instance, an applicant with a birthday in October who is approved in May (i.e., 5 months prior to their birthday) will enjoy 5 years + 5 months of privileges.

Renewal of membership requires an additional fee (the same amount as charged for new applicants), and in some cases, renewal applicants are selected for a new interview.[16][17][18] Early renewal is encouraged, and the renewal may be started beginning on the participant's birthday exactly 365 days ahead of expiration. The TSA maintains a list of credit card issuers and loyalty programs that reimburse members' TSA PreCheck and/or Global Entry application fees.[19]

Disqualification and revocation

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Any type of criminal conviction can disqualify a traveler from the Global Entry program: it is a risk-based system to facilitate the entry of pre-approved travelers. Three to five percent of travelers who sign up for the program are rejected; in such cases, they are generally told the reason for the rejection. Applicants may not qualify if they provide false or incomplete information on the application, if they have pending criminal charges or for any other legal/customs issues (particularly, but not exclusively, for customs-related offenses) such as, for example, having previously paid a fine for transporting a prohibited or undeclared item at a port of entry in the U.S. or even abroad.

Those whose Global Entry applications are denied have three ways to appeal: making an appointment to speak with a supervisor at a trusted traveler enrollment center, e-mailing the CBP Trusted Traveler Ombudsman, or filing a complaint through the Department of Homeland Security's Traveler Redress Inquiry Program.[20]

CBP claims that less than one percent of active Global Entry participants' privileges are revoked. In these situations, an explanation for the revocation is not necessarily supplied.[21]

A common explanation for revocation or denial of re-approval is simply that the applicant no longer meets the inclusion criteria (i.e., a full reason is not supplied). Often, this means some kind of criminal activity, such as an outstanding warrant. Once said item is addressed, applicants have a chance of success, but it is still required to appeal via one of the above-listed three avenues. Notably, the Ombudsman may be reached, in certain circumstances, via the DHS TTP portal. Otherwise, a submission is required via the mail.

Entry procedure

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Global Entry kiosk

When entering by air, enrolled members must scan their faces at kiosks[22] or through CBP's mobile app.[23] Customs declarations are made orally to officers if kiosks are used; app users make digital declarations. Enrolled members, like all other passengers, are required to carry their passports or NEXUS cards when entering by air; however, they are not always asked to present their travel documents to officers after verifying their identities via facial recognition.

For entering by land, enrolled users are provided with an RFID-enabled Global Entry membership card that may be used to enter the United States via expedited NEXUS lanes from Canada, SENTRI lanes from Mexico (requires vehicle approval), or Ready Lane from either country. The card may also be used at sea ports of entry by U.S. Citizens without the need of a passport. The Global Entry Card cannot be used to enter Canada: a passport is required. The card may be used, however, to return into the U.S. via land borders.[24]

Other programs

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NEXUS and SENTRI

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NEXUS is another trusted traveller program operated jointly by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to receive expedited clearance upon arrival into the United States and Canada by air, land, and water. The program is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, Canadian citizens, Canadian permanent residents, and Mexican nationals. Members of NEXUS can use the benefits of Global Entry if their fingerprints and passport information were collected during the interview to apply for the program.[25][26]

SENTRI is similar to the NEXUS program, but it is fully operated by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It allows expedited entry to the United States at the Mexico–United States border for pre-approved travelers that are considered low-risk. U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, and all foreign nationals are eligible for the program.[25] U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents may use their SENTRI card at Global Entry kiosks. Mexican nationals who are SENTRI members may apply for Global Entry after passing a risk assessment conducted by the Mexican government.[27]

TSA PreCheck

[edit]

Members of Global Entry (along with members of other U.S. Trusted Traveler programs, NEXUS and SENTRI) may be selected to use TSA PreCheck on all participating airlines by entering their "Known Traveler Number" from their Global Entry card or dashboard into their flight reservation information or into their frequent flyer account. While any person, including TTP participants, may be subjected to standard or enhanced screening at any time (i.e., denied PreCheck), denying PreCheck to Global Entry members is rare.[citation needed] PreCheck is included for all Global Entry members, NEXUS members who are U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents or Canadian citizens, and SENTRI members who are U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents.[25]

Eligibility

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  Countries participating in Global Entry or NEXUS
  Countries planning to participate in Global Entry

As of 2025, in addition to U.S. nationals and U.S. lawful permanent residents, nationals of the following countries[a] may also apply for Global Entry:[30]

Nationals and permanent residents of Canada are not eligible to apply for Global Entry but they may apply for NEXUS, whose members have all benefits of Global Entry including using its kiosks.[26]

A limited number of nationals of Australia, Israel, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have been able to apply for Global Entry as a trial before eligibility is expanded to all nationals of these countries.[25] The government of Costa Rica has also negotiated participation in the program.[32]

As of 2020, more than 97% of Global Entry members were citizens or permanent residents of the United States.[33]

Airports with kiosks

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Participants may enter the United States (or the United States preclearance area in select international airports) by utilizing automated kiosks located at the following airports:[1]

United States

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U.S. preclearance

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Analogous systems in other countries

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  • Australia and New Zealand: SmartGate system (eGate in New Zealand) is available to all holders of biometric passports of Australia and New Zealand, and selected other countries aged 16 or over for entry to Australia, and selected other countries aged 12 or over for entry to New Zealand. It requires no pre-registration and is similar to its US counterpart, although in addition, it uses facial recognition technology to process passengers.
  • Canada: the CANPASS provides expedited customs and immigration clearance for travelers flying on corporate and private aircraft flying from the United States. The program cost CA$40 and is valid for 5 years.[34] The program was previously available for commercial airline passengers and private boats and operated similar to Global Entry. The program was discontinued in 2018 in favour of NEXUS, which has the same benefits of the former CANPASS program in addition to the benefits of Global Entry, with existing members being allowed to kept their membership until it expired.[35][36]
  • Germany: federal police also offers Easypass automated border control at major airports (Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, and Munich). It is open to citizens of the European Union, citizens of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and South Korea.[37] Nationals of the US and the Hong Kong S.A.R. of China may also register.[38]
  • Hong Kong: e-Channel is situated at all border crossing points. A person who holds a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) or has registered for access scans their travel document to enter the first gate and then has their thumbprint scanned to pass through the second gate.[39]
  • Japan: equivalent to the US program, Automated gate, costs 2200 JPY in the form of revenue stamps. It is similar in that a passport and fingerprint are scanned at a kiosk to pass.[40]
  • Mexico: Viajero Confiable program is open to Mexican citizens, and U.S and Canadian citizens who are members of Global Entry or permanent residents of Mexico.[41] Prospective members must pass a background check and an interview with a Mexican immigration officer, and have fingerprints and iris scans taken. Kiosks are currently available at the Cancun, Los Cabos, and Mexico City international airports, but the Mexican government hopes to expand it to other cities in the near future.[42]
  • Singapore: enhanced-Immigration Automated Clearance System (eIACS) enables Singaporean citizens aged 6 and above, foreigners that hold a valid work pass in Singapore and foreign visitors who enrolled in relevant Traveller programmes (stated below), to arrive and depart Singapore using the automated immigration gates at Singapore points of entry.[43] US citizens aged 6 or above (who are not residing in Singapore), are participating in Global Entry, and have visited Singapore at least 2 times in the last 24 months, are eligible to enrol into the Singapore - United States of America Trusted Traveller Programme (TTP).[44] Electronic passport holders from other selected nations, are eligible to enrol for the broader Frequent Traveller Programme (FTP).[45] All Singaporean citizens are exempted from enrolling into the eIACS, as they have registered their fingerprints whilst applying for Singapore national registration identity card (NRIC) and Singapore passport. Foreigners who hold a valid work pass, are also exempted from enrolling into the eIACS, as they have registered their fingerprints whilst applying for the relevant work pass.
  • South Korea: Smart Entry Service is the automated immigration clearance system. South Korean citizens aged 7 or above, all foreigners residing in South Korea aged 17 or above, US citizens aged 17 or above who are not residing in South Korea and participating in Global Entry, and Hong Kong and Macau electronic passport holders aged 17 or above are eligible for the program. South Korean citizens who registered their fingerprints are exempted from pre-registration. US dual citizens holding South Korean citizenship must use their South Korean passports to use the programme. US citizens with a valid South Korean visa must use their Alien Registration Card to participate in the programme and are exempted from the Global Entry prerequisite. It uses both facial recognition and fingerprinting technology.[46]
  • Taiwan: e-Gate is an automated entry system for ROC citizens, certain categories of resident foreigners, and frequent visitors with biometric passports from select countries, including US citizens participating in Global Entry. Enrolled users simply scan their travel documents at the gate and are passed through for facial recognition. Electronic fingerprinting is used if facial recognition fails. Interviews and final registration is available at the immigration counter at major ports of entry.[47] Global Entry applicants must have applied online prior to arrival with payment of the NT$3000 application fee and received conditional approval; all other eligible applicants may enroll for free upon arrival.[48] e-Gate enrollments of all foreign visitors are valid until six months prior to the expiration of its associated passport.

Notes

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Global Entry is a U.S. and (CBP) trusted traveler program launched as a pilot on June 6, 2008, that enables expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival at participating U.S. airports. Participants use automated kiosks to scan passports, fingerprints, and customs declarations, bypassing lengthy traditional processing lines and paperwork. Membership requires applicants to be at least 18 years old (or accompanied by a parent or for minors), U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, or citizens of select partner nations, undergo a rigorous , complete an in-person interview, and pay a non-refundable $120 for five-year validity. Benefits extend beyond customs to include access for domestic security screening and reciprocal expedited entry arrangements with over a dozen countries, such as the , , and . As of 2024, the program has enrolled more than 13 million members, reflecting substantial growth from its initial pilot phase with a few hundred participants at three airports. While praised for enhancing efficiency through risk-based screening, Global Entry mandates biometric data submission and ongoing monitoring, which has prompted critiques from groups regarding data handling and potential implications. Denials or revocations can occur for incomplete applications, criminal convictions, or violations like undeclared goods, though CBP often withholds specific reasons to safeguard security protocols.

History

Inception and Early Development

The Global Entry program originated as a voluntary trusted traveler initiative developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to expedite customs clearance for pre-approved, low-risk international air passengers entering the . Launched as a pilot on June 6, 2008, it initially enrolled a few hundred members and operated at three major airports, leveraging automated kiosks for biometric verification and self-service processing to reduce wait times. The program built on prior CBP trusted traveler efforts like and , extending similar benefits to air arrivals by requiring rigorous background vetting, including fingerprinting and interviews, to identify and fast-track travelers deemed unlikely to pose security risks. Early operations focused on testing feasibility and scalability, with CBP monitoring usage metrics such as kiosk interactions to refine processes. By August , enrollment had expanded to approximately 16,000 members, and Global Entry s had facilitated over 100,000 uses, demonstrating initial success in streamlining arrivals without compromising security protocols. This growth prompted formal ; in 2009, CBP published a notice in the proposing to codify the pilot as a permanent program, citing positive performance data from the first 16 months. The initiative emphasized causal links between pre-vetting and reduced inspection burdens, allowing CBP officers to allocate resources toward higher-risk entrants. Development through 2012 involved incremental expansions to additional U.S. airports and refinements to enrollment criteria, culminating in a February 2012 Federal Register final rule that established Global Entry as an ongoing regulatory program effective March 7, 2012. This transition from pilot to standard operation reflected of the program's in enhancing traveler throughput while maintaining standards, with no major security breaches reported in the initial phase.

Major Expansions and Milestones

The Global Entry program launched as a pilot on June 6, 2008, initially available at three U.S. airports—Washington Dulles International, New York's International, and Newark Liberty International—for pre-approved U.S. citizens. On August 10, 2009, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) expanded the pilot to 13 additional airports, including Boston Logan International and /Fort Worth International, with enrollment centers and kiosks operational starting August 24, 2009. The program transitioned from pilot to full operation on November 19, 2009, via notice, broadening eligibility while maintaining rigorous background vetting. Early international expansion occurred on April 23, 2009, when CBP established a reciprocal agreement with the , allowing Dutch Privium program members to enroll in Global Entry for expedited U.S. entry. Subsequent domestic infrastructure growth included additions of eight airports in 2013, seven in 2015 (effective by July 13, 2015), and nine more by April 3, 2017. In July 2017, CBP introduced Enrollment on Arrival, enabling conditionally approved applicants to finalize interviews upon international arrival, initially at select preclearance sites and later expanded to 11 more airports by November 2017. Membership reached 1 million by November 2013. Growth accelerated, surpassing 2.4 million by 2015 and 5 million by April 2018—a more than 100% increase from 2015 levels—driven by expanded airport access to 57 U.S. locations. By 2023, Global Entry accounted for over 10 million of CBP's Trusted Traveler Program members. Enrollment exceeded 13 million active members by August 2025. Recent international partnerships include in November 2024 and in January 2025, alongside ongoing additions like , reflecting CBP's strategy to reciprocal trusted traveler benefits with low-risk foreign nationals from select countries such as , , , , and . These expansions prioritize bilateral agreements for mutual expedited processing, with eligibility tied to partner programs and U.S. visa compliance.

Policy Interventions and Suspensions

In 2012, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) formalized the Global Entry program through a rule, transitioning it from a pilot initiated in 2008 to a permanent voluntary initiative, which addressed operational scalability and integrated risk-based vetting enhancements to expedite low-risk traveler clearance. This policy intervention standardized eligibility, requiring biometric enrollment and background checks while expanding kiosks, thereby institutionalizing the program's framework amid growing international travel volumes. A Department of Office of Inspector General (OIG) identified vulnerabilities in Global Entry's vetting processes, revealing instances where ineligible or high-risk individuals gained membership due to inadequate interagency data sharing and manual review gaps. In response, CBP implemented policy interventions including automated risk assessments, enhanced cross-checks with law enforcement databases, and stricter conditional approval protocols to mitigate exploitation risks without broad program suspension. The prompted temporary suspensions of enrollment operations; on March 18, 2020, CBP closed all Trusted Traveler Program enrollment centers nationwide, pausing Global Entry interviews and mobile events indefinitely to prioritize and for . This closure extended through May 2020 and beyond, with phased reopenings starting July 6, 2020, affecting conditionally approved applicants who faced delays in finalizing membership. Existing members retained benefits, but the intervention highlighted tensions between program accessibility and crisis response, leading to subsequent digital enhancements for renewals. A 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) review of Trusted Traveler Programs, including Global Entry, critiqued Department of Homeland Security (DHS) oversight, prompting recommendations for improved metrics on vetting efficacy and membership growth, which informed ongoing policy refinements such as fee adjustments effective October 1, 2024, to fund expansions without suspending core operations. These interventions emphasized causal links between data-driven audits and procedural tightening, prioritizing security over unchecked enrollment amid documented risks.

Eligibility and Enrollment

Core Eligibility Criteria

U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply for Global Entry provided they satisfy risk assessment criteria demonstrating low risk to , public safety, and . Citizens of select partner countries with reciprocal arrangements may also apply, including , , , , , , , , , the , , , , , , , the , and the ; Canadian citizens access Global Entry benefits through the program. is additionally included under separate eligibility provisions for its nationals. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, though minors under 18 may apply with consent from a parent or who is a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident. All candidates undergo a rigorous by U.S. and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Citizenship and Services (USCIS), which includes fingerprinting and evaluation of criminal history, immigration violations, and other factors. Eligibility excludes individuals with any criminal convictions or pending charges, violations of U.S. customs, , or agricultural regulations, receipt of criminal pardons (which do not mitigate ineligibility), or inadmissibility under U.S. laws—even with approved waivers. Applicants under active federal, state, or local law enforcement investigations are also barred, as are those previously denied under other Trusted Traveler Programs unless circumstances have materially changed. For non-U.S. citizens, ongoing maintenance of valid U.S. entry documents, such as visas, is required post-approval to utilize benefits, though this does not affect initial eligibility determination.

Application and Vetting Process

Applicants initiate the Global Entry process by creating an account on the official Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). They then complete an online application form, providing personal details such as information, address history, background, and travel records for the past five years. A non-refundable processing fee of $120 is required upon submission, covering a five-year membership period if approved; many travel credit cards offer an automatic statement credit reimbursing this fee when charged to an eligible card, with the benefit typically renewing every four years. Children under 18 may apply for free when a parent or is enrolled or applying concurrently, though they must meet the same eligibility standards. Following submission, CBP conducts a comprehensive background vetting process, cross-referencing applicant data against enforcement, customs, immigration, agriculture, and terrorist watchlist databases maintained by federal agencies including the FBI and Department of . Initial vetting typically occurs within two weeks, but the full review can extend from several weeks to over 12 months depending on factors such as criminal history or the need for additional information. If no disqualifying issues are identified, applicants receive conditional approval via their TTP account and must then schedule an in-person interview. The mandatory interview takes place at one of approximately 70 Global Entry Enrollment Centers (GECs) located at major U.S. airports and border facilities, or through alternatives like Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) for conditionally approved travelers entering the U.S. Global Entry Enrollment Centers also handle updates to existing memberships for passport, name, or citizenship changes. At the Newark Liberty International Airport Enrollment Center, for example, walk-in services for these document updates are available Monday through Friday between 9:00 AM–11:00 AM and 5:00 PM–7:00 PM without an appointment. The center is located in Terminal B, Level 1, behind domestic baggage carousel #1. Members should bring their new U.S. passport and, for citizenship changes, a naturalization certificate. During the session, lasting 10-15 minutes on average, a CBP officer verifies the application, collects biometric data including fingerprints and a digital photograph, and may ask clarifying questions about the applicant's . Final approval, granting a Known Traveler Number (KTN) and access to benefits, is typically issued within hours to days post-interview, after confirming no final objections from vetting partners. Applicants must bring valid identification, such as a , to the interview.

Processing Timelines and Recent Improvements

The Global Entry application process begins with submission through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, followed by a $120 non-refundable fee and an automated conducted by U.S. and Border Protection (CBP). Most applications receive initial review within two weeks, though complex cases requiring manual vetting can extend to 12-24 months. Upon conditional approval, applicants must complete an in-person interview, after which full membership is granted, with cards mailed 2-4 weeks later. As of mid-2025, average end-to-end processing times have averaged 52 days for over 50% of applicants achieving enrollment within 60 days, reflecting reduced backlogs compared to prior years when waits often exceeded 90 days routinely. Interview scheduling at enrollment centers has historically contributed to delays, with wait times varying by location and applicant —U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents often seeing faster approvals than foreign nationals. Conditional approvals can remain valid for up to , allowing flexibility, but uncompleted applications risk expiration. A key improvement, Enrollment on Arrival (EoA), introduced in 2019 and expanded since, permits conditionally approved applicants to finalize their upon international arrival at over 70 U.S. airports and select land border ports without prior scheduling. This process integrates with primary , typically lasting 10-15 minutes, and has been extended to and crossings at northern and southern borders as of 2025. EoA has alleviated enrollment center bottlenecks, enabling same-day activation for travelers returning from abroad. Additionally, 2024 regulatory harmonization with the program standardized application procedures and fees, streamlining administrative handling for dual applicants. These enhancements, combined with CBP's ongoing vetting optimizations, have contributed to shorter overall timelines amid rising application volumes exceeding 1 million annually.

Operational Procedures

Standard Entry and Clearance Process

Global Entry members arriving by air at participating U.S. airports bypass traditional control lines and proceed directly to designated automated kiosks for primary processing. This self-service system verifies identity and handles customs declarations electronically, eliminating the need for paper CBP Form 6059B. The kiosk process begins with scanning a valid passport or U.S. lawful permanent resident card to confirm membership and documents. Biometric verification follows, typically involving placement of four fingers from one hand on a scanner to match pre-enrolled fingerprints against the member's record. Members then respond to on-screen questions regarding imported goods, items, and other declarations, with all items required to be reported accurately. A digital photograph may also be captured for additional verification. Upon completion, the kiosk prints a transaction receipt, which members present along with their or resident card to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer stationed nearby. The officer conducts a brief final review, potentially including secondary biometric checks or questions if discrepancies arise or random selection occurs; otherwise, clearance is granted, allowing members to collect baggage and exit without further delay. This process is available at over 75 U.S. airports equipped with Global Entry kiosks, though availability and exact procedures may vary by location. Members must ensure their membership is active and carry required documents, as failure to do so defaults them to standard processing lines.

Technological Enhancements and Tools

Global Entry processing has evolved from manual kiosk interactions to incorporate advanced biometric and mobile technologies, enabling faster clearance for enrolled members. Traditional kiosks require scanning a or Global Entry card, completing a , and providing fingerprints for verification against pre-enrolled . These kiosks, deployed at over 75 U.S. airports and preclearance locations, use automated systems to match traveler data against CBP's secure databases, reducing officer intervention for low-risk individuals. A significant enhancement is the introduction of Global Entry Touchless Portals, which employ biometric comparison technology to verify identity without physical contact. Rolled out progressively since 2024, these portals capture a live image and compare it to the member's stored photo in CBP's systems, streamlining entry and minimizing wait times for both travelers and officers. By May 2025, the technology integrated auto-capture features as part of broader Enhanced Passenger Processing initiatives, allowing seamless photo verification during peak travel periods. This shift prioritizes recognition over legacy methods like iris scans, which have been de-emphasized in favor of more scalable . The Global Entry Mobile App, launched in September 2023 and available for and Android devices, further reduces reliance on fixed infrastructure by permitting members to submit arrival declarations and undergo verification remotely. Users scan their via the app up to four hours before landing or upon arrival, bypassing lines when recognition confirms identity against enrolled data. As of August 2025, the app supports processing at select airports, with CBP expanding compatibility to enhance efficiency amid rising international travel volumes. These tools integrate with CBP's Traveler Verification Service, embedding biometrics for real-time threat assessment while maintaining through opt-out options and limits of 12 hours post-processing.

Disqualification and Revocation

Grounds for Disqualification

Applicants may be disqualified from Global Entry if they provide false or incomplete information on the application, as this undermines the program's . Disqualification also occurs for any criminal conviction, pending charges, or outstanding warrants, including offenses, reflecting the program's emphasis on low-risk travelers. Violations of , , or regulations or laws in any country result in ineligibility, as these indicate potential non-compliance with U.S. border security standards. Individuals subject to ongoing investigations by federal, state, or local agencies are ineligible, ensuring participants pose no active threats. Inadmissibility to the under immigration regulations disqualifies applicants, aligning Global Entry with broader entry requirements. Prior denial of Global Entry membership or previous revocation also bars reapplication, preventing repeated attempts without resolution of underlying issues. U.S. Customs and Border Protection exercises discretion in final determinations, with reasons for disqualification provided in writing to applicants.

Revocation Mechanisms and Consequences

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) revokes Global Entry membership when a participant fails to maintain low-risk status, typically upon discovery of violations through inspections, background vetting, or self-reporting. Triggers include breaches of , , or regulations, such as undeclared goods or prohibited items, as well as post-enrollment criminal convictions or associations raising security concerns. CBP officers at ports of entry may initiate revocation by documenting infractions during clearance, forwarding cases to the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) Vetting Center for review against derogatory information from , terrorist indices, or international partners. The revocation process involves automated or manual flagging in the TTP system, followed by administrative termination without prior hearing unless specified otherwise in program guidelines. Participants receive written notification via their TTP online account, stating the specific reason—such as regulatory violations or eligibility lapses—and are immediately barred from using Global Entry kiosks or lanes. For minor first-time offenses, CBP may impose temporary suspensions lasting up to five years instead of permanent revocation, allowing potential reinstatement after the period. Severe or repeated infractions result in indefinite termination, with no automatic right to reapply until CBP deems the risk mitigated, often years later. Consequences extend beyond loss of expedited international clearance, including forfeiture of the $100 application fee with no refund and potential revocation of linked benefits like , which relies on Global Entry status for continuity. Revoked members face standard queue processing at U.S. ports, increasing wait times, and may encounter heightened scrutiny in future CBP interactions or applications due to the program's integration with broader admissibility databases. While appeals via reconsideration requests are possible—requiring submission of explanatory documents through the TTP portal—success rates remain low without compelling evidence overturning the initial findings, as CBP prioritizes risk aversion over individual accommodations.

Appeals and Common Denial Issues

Applicants for Global Entry membership are frequently denied for failing to meet statutory or regulatory eligibility criteria, primarily due to undisclosed or disqualifying background factors. Common reasons include providing false or incomplete information during the application process, such as omissions of prior arrests, convictions, or travel history; having been convicted of any criminal offense, even misdemeanors like DUI, or facing pending charges or warrants; and violations of , , or agricultural laws in any country, including minor infractions like failing to declare prohibited items. Other frequent issues involve ongoing investigations by law enforcement or intelligence agencies, or determinations by CBP officers during interviews that the applicant poses a to or public safety based on discretionary judgment. Upon denial, applicants receive a written notification from U.S. and Border Protection (CBP) specifying the reason, typically accessible via the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) online portal. To appeal, individuals must submit a request for reconsideration through their TTP account, providing supporting documentation to address the cited ineligibility, such as court disposition records proving or evidence correcting application errors; this process does not guarantee reversal and may take several months for review. In cases of perceived errors, applicants can also file a redress inquiry via the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (TRIP), though this is distinct from formal TTP appeals and focuses on misidentifications rather than substantive eligibility disputes. Reapplication is permitted after a mandatory waiting period, often five years from denial, but only after resolving the underlying issue; repeated denials without resolution can lead to permanent ineligibility.

NEXUS and SENTRI Integration

Global Entry, , and are components of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP), which facilitate expedited processing for pre-vetted, low-risk travelers. , a joint U.S.- initiative, enables expedited clearance at land and sea ports of entry between the two nations, while focuses on the U.S.- border, providing dedicated lanes for pre-approved vehicles and pedestrians. Integration across these programs allows members to leverage benefits reciprocally, reducing the need for separate enrollments in certain scenarios and enhancing cross-border efficiency without duplicating full background processes. Global Entry members may use their program-issued card for expedited entry via and lanes when entering the by land or sea, provided they comply with specific requirements such as vehicle pre-registration and scheduled appointments for SENTRI crossings. This reciprocity extends to lanes for U.S.-bound travel, though full NEXUS membership is required for entry into . Conversely, all current members and U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents holding memberships are eligible to utilize Global Entry kiosks at participating U.S. airports upon arrival from abroad, bypassing standard processing lines. The TTP system streamlines applications and conversions between programs; for instance, applicants conditionally approved for or may switch to Global Entry without restarting the process, subject to final interviews and approvals. cards are also accepted at Global Entry kiosks, further bridging air and land travel modalities. These interconnections, managed through the centralized Trusted Traveler Program System (TTP) dashboard, promote operational flexibility but maintain distinct eligibility criteria, fees, and renewal cycles for each program—Global Entry at $100 for five years, at $50, and at $122.25 including vehicle processing.

TSA PreCheck and Domestic Benefits

Global Entry membership confers automatic eligibility for , a program administered by the (TSA) that provides expedited security screening for domestic and select international departures from U.S. airports. This integration allows approved Global Entry participants, deemed low-risk by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to bypass standard screening procedures without a separate application or additional fee. To utilize TSA PreCheck benefits, Global Entry members must enter their nine-digit PASS ID—serving as the Known Traveler Number (KTN)—in the appropriate field when booking flights with participating airlines or add it to existing reservations and frequent flyer profiles. The PASS ID, typically beginning with prefixes such as 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 50, 70, 80, 95, 98, or 99, is located on the back of the Global Entry membership card or in the approval notification from CBP. Upon successful linkage, the boarding pass will display the indicator, granting access to dedicated lanes where travelers generally keep on shoes, belts, and light jackets; leave laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in carry-on bags; and undergo less intensive pat-downs or advanced imaging technology scans. As of 2025, is available at more than 250 U.S. airports with over 90 participating airlines, enabling widespread domestic use for Global Entry members on qualifying itineraries. These benefits apply to flights originating from participating checkpoints, though random additional screening may still occur, and children 17 and under accompanying enrolled parents or guardians can typically access PreCheck lanes without separate membership. Membership eligibility persists for the full five-year term of Global Entry, after which renewal requires reapplication through CBP processes.

APEC Business Travel Card

The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a CBP program offering expedited immigration processing at participating airports for U.S. citizens engaged in business travel across Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) member economies. Active Global Entry membership satisfies the background vetting requirement for ABTC eligibility, though the ABTC requires a separate application process and issuance of a distinct card.

Infrastructure

U.S. Airport Kiosks and Facilities

Global Entry kiosks are automated self-service stations deployed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the customs inspection areas of participating , enabling pre-approved members to complete primary inspection independently. Upon arrival from an , members proceed to a designated Global Entry lane, scan their machine-readable U.S. passport, U.S. permanent resident card, or Trusted Traveler Program card at the , and provide four fingerprints for biometric verification against enrolled data. The prompts for responses to questions, captures a facial photograph for identity confirmation, and issues a transaction receipt if no discrepancies are detected; members then retrieve , present the receipt at a bag inspection station, and exit without further officer interaction unless randomly selected for secondary screening. These kiosks operate at 62 U.S. airports as of July 2025, primarily major international gateways such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), (LAX), and (JFK), with the full list maintained by CBP and subject to periodic expansion based on traffic volume and infrastructure capacity. The number of kiosks per airport varies by facility size and passenger throughput; for instance, high-volume hubs like Miami International Airport (MIA) feature multiple units to minimize queues, supported by CBP officers stationed nearby for troubleshooting or referral to manual lanes. Facilities incorporate secure RFID readers, touch-screen interfaces, and integrated cameras, with maintenance handled through CBP's operational budget to ensure 24/7 availability aligned with international arrival schedules. Recent technological upgrades include touchless portals at select , where members align their face with an on-screen for automatic biometric processing without manual handling or scans, reducing contact points and processing time to under 30 seconds in optimal conditions. Complementing kiosks, the Global Entry Mobile Application—expanded to all U.S. kiosk-equipped by September 2025—allows members to submit details and a pre-arrival via , generating a for scanning at dedicated lanes to bypass traditional kiosks entirely. These enhancements, rolled out progressively since 2022, aim to handle increasing membership volumes exceeding 12 million while maintaining security through real-time risk assessment algorithms.

Preclearance and International Sites

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates preclearance facilities at select foreign airports, where travelers complete , , and agricultural inspections before boarding U.S.-bound flights, eliminating the need for such processing upon domestic arrival. This process, established under bilateral agreements, enhances security by allowing CBP officers to conduct risk assessments abroad and reduces congestion at U.S. ports of entry. Global Entry members at these sites access dedicated kiosks for biometric verification and automated clearance, mirroring procedures at U.S. airports, which has been available at Canadian preclearance locations since 2011 and expanded to others like . As of 2025, preclearance operates at 15 airports across six countries, facilitating over 20 million annual passenger inspections. The locations include:
CountryAirports
Calgary International (YYC), International (YEG), Halifax Stanfield International (YHZ), Montreal-Pierre Elliott (YUL), Macdonald-Cartier (YOW), Pearson (YYZ), International (YVR), James Armstrong Richardson (YWG)
(DUB), Shannon (SNN)
International (AUH)
Queen Beatrix International (AUA)
International (NAS)
L.F. Wade International (BDA)
At Canadian preclearance sites, Global Entry participants may present their passport, lawful permanent resident card, or NEXUS card (which integrates with Global Entry) at kiosks, though the Global Entry card itself is not accepted there. In non-Canadian facilities like Dublin, members use standard Global Entry kiosks followed by officer verification, potentially including boarding pass scans. International sites for Global Entry enrollment primarily occur through the Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) program, enabling conditionally approved applicants to complete required in-person interviews upon U.S. arrival from select foreign locations without prior scheduling at domestic centers. EoA is available at international airports serving arrivals from , , , , and , among others, as of September 2025. This option, introduced to improve accessibility for international applicants, requires presenting conditional approval documentation and typically takes 5-15 minutes, subject to CBP officer availability and flight processing demands. Full enrollment centers remain U.S.-based, with no permanent international equivalents, though EoA effectively extends enrollment capacity abroad via arriving flights.

International Equivalents and Reciprocity

Analogous Programs in Other Nations

The United Kingdom operates the Registered Traveller service, a membership program administered by the UK Home Office that grants expedited passport control processing via eGates at major UK ports for pre-vetted frequent visitors. Eligible applicants must be nationals of designated low-risk countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea, and demonstrate at least two visits to the UK in the preceding two years using an ePassport. The application process involves online submission, identity verification, and potential biographic checks, with membership valid for up to five years at an initial cost of £104 for adults (as of 2023 updates), renewable for £50. This program eliminates the need for landing cards and reduces wait times, processing over 1 million travelers annually through automated channels as of 2024 data from UK Border Force operations. Mexico's Viajero Confiable, managed by the National Migration Institute (INM), functions as a domestic trusted traveler initiative mirroring Global Entry by offering automated kiosk-based clearance at 19 participating airports for pre-approved low-risk individuals. Participants undergo rigorous vetting, including biometrics, interviews, and criminal background checks, with approval granting a five-year membership that enables declaration of and faster upon arrival. Launched in 2016, the program processed approximately 500,000 crossings by 2023, emphasizing risk-based screening to enhance security while streamlining flows for vetted travelers from partner nations, including reciprocal access for U.S. Global Entry members. Canada maintains the CANPASS suite of programs through the (CBSA), with CANPASS Private Aircraft providing expedited clearance for pre-screened owners, lessees, or operators of non-commercial aircraft from approved countries like the and . Applicants submit to background vetting, receive a CANPASS card upon approval, and must report arrivals at least 60 minutes in advance via telephone or app, allowing telephonic without physical in most cases; the program, established in 1990 and updated as of 2025, supports low-risk flows across designated aerodromes. For commercial air travel, Canada relies on the joint U.S.-Canada program for analogous expedited air, land, and marine entry, but CANPASS Air for private flights remains a standalone vetted alternative, handling thousands of clearances yearly with a focus on minimizing disruptions for verified users. Australia's SmartGate system, operated by the since 2009, delivers automated facial recognition-based clearance at 10 international airports for ePassport holders aged 18 and over from 36 eligible countries, including the , , and , without requiring a separate membership application but leveraging pre-embedded biometric data for verification against watchlists. This process, which scans passports and matches faces to photos in under 10 seconds on average, has facilitated over 20 million uses by , serving as a expedited pathway for low-risk arrivals akin to trusted traveler benefits; U.S. Global Entry members qualify automatically if carrying a valid ePassport, enhancing .

Reciprocal Agreements for Global Entry Members

Global Entry members, particularly U.S. citizens, benefit from limited reciprocal expedited entry arrangements in select partner countries, allowing use of automated kiosks or gates for faster processing upon arrival. These agreements facilitate reduced wait times abroad but are narrower in scope than the program's primary focus on U.S. entry; they do not extend to all international partners, many of which primarily enable their own citizens to apply for Global Entry membership. In , U.S. citizens enrolled in Global Entry can utilize the SmartGate system at participating airports for automated control and facial recognition verification, bypassing traditional queues without needing an Electronic Travel Authority for eligible short stays. This partnership, formalized in early 2025, enhances bilateral travel efficiency while maintaining security vetting standards. Similarly, in , Global Entry members access eGate kiosks for biometric expedited clearance at major entry points, streamlining arrival procedures through pre-verified low-risk status recognition. These benefits apply to air arrivals and require presentation of the Global Entry card or Known Traveler Number alongside a . No such automated expedited entry reciprocity exists for Global Entry members entering the , , or under the core program, though integrated programs like (for ) and (for ) provide separate cross-border benefits for eligible dual enrollees. Efforts to expand reciprocity continue, but as of October 2025, and remain the primary destinations for these outbound advantages.

Impact and Assessment

Security Outcomes and Empirical Data

The Global Entry program employs a multi-layered vetting process, including automated checks against , , , , and watchlist databases, biometric fingerprint collection, and in-person interviews at enrollment centers. Approved members undergo continuous every 24 hours post-enrollment to identify emerging risks. Approximately 80% of the roughly 30,000 monthly applicants receive conditional approval for interviews, with final denial rates estimated at 3-5%, often due to undisclosed criminal history, immigration violations, or customs infractions. Despite these safeguards, a 2019 Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (OIG) identified vulnerabilities, including the approval of ineligible applicants—such as 35 individuals with disqualifying criminal convictions or prior violations—and inadequate verification of kiosk receipts by officers at nine U.S. airports, affecting at least 231 entries. The OIG attributed these issues to insufficient training, oversight lapses, and inconsistent application of policies, potentially allowing high-risk individuals expedited access. In response, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) implemented enhanced compliance measures, though the OIG noted persistent gaps in detection. Empirical data on adverse security outcomes remain limited, with no publicly documented cases of Global Entry members perpetrating major terrorist acts or large-scale threats at U.S. ports of entry. CBP has revoked membership for approximately 12,000 participants as of 2022, primarily for post-enrollment violations such as evasion, undeclared , or criminal activity, rather than pre-existing risks. A 2011 analysis modeled trusted traveler programs like Global Entry as yielding net benefits by reallocating resources to higher-risk travelers, estimating that the risk of a vetted low-risk individual radicalizing post-approval is low (on the order of 1 in millions annually), though not zero, with overall program costs offset by efficiency gains. A separate found expedited screening under trusted traveler frameworks, including Global Entry, to be cost-effective for , with minimal incremental compared to standard processing, as biometric and continuous checks mitigate exploitation potential. CBP asserts that the program's expansion has bolstered by amassing biometric and biographical on millions of low- travelers, enabling better profiling, though independent verification of these claims is constrained by classified operational . A 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) review confirmed enrollment processes exist but highlighted needs for improved tracking of long-term outcomes among members.

Efficiency and Economic Advantages

Global Entry enhances efficiency by enabling pre-approved members to bypass lengthy queues through automated kiosks equipped with biometric facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, eliminating paperwork and manual inspections for low-risk arrivals. This process typically completes in under one minute per member, in contrast to average wait times of 45 minutes or more for non-participants at high-volume airports during peak periods. The program's availability at over 75 U.S. airports and 15 preclearance sites worldwide further streamlines international re-entry, with members reporting consistent reductions in processing delays even amid surges in traveler volume. By concentrating CBP resources on riskier entries, Global Entry optimizes overall port throughput, as evidenced by its role in managing exponential membership growth to approximately 14 million participants by fiscal year 2024 without proportional increases in staffing demands. Economically, these time efficiencies yield direct value for users, where saved hours—often 40 minutes to over one hour per international trip—compound for frequent travelers, equating to productivity gains valued at business hourly rates exceeding $50 in sectors like and consulting. For CBP, the program generates administrative cost avoidances through streamlined operations and reduced inquiry volumes, allowing reallocation of funds from routine processing to threat mitigation, as detailed in departmental modernization efforts. Broader impacts include facilitation of and ; analogous analyses of border wait time reductions demonstrate that each minute shaved per vehicle or passenger can boost local economies by enhancing commerce flows, with trusted traveler facilitation contributing to similar multipliers in air arrivals. The $120 five-year fee structure, often offset by reimbursements, ensures accessibility while sustaining program scalability.

Criticisms, Vulnerabilities, and Reforms

A 2019 audit by the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General (OIG) identified significant vulnerabilities in the Global Entry program, including non-compliance by CBP officers with eligibility verification policies, inadequate checks on members' financial responsibility for lost declaration receipts, and insufficient monitoring of ongoing compliance during the five-year membership period. These lapses allowed ineligible individuals, including those posing higher risks, to gain membership and potentially enter the U.S. without full inspections, as well as the use of falsified receipts to bypass duty payments on imported goods. The audit further noted CBP's failure to perform the required number of internal audits and ineffective use of its Self-Inspection Program, exacerbating risks of exploitation by criminals who could game the low-risk categorization criteria. Privacy advocates have criticized the program's biometric data collection and recurrent vetting practices, which involve continuous cross-checks against , , and databases even for non-traveling members, implying ongoing consent to upon enrollment. The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) has argued that integrating applicant data into CBP's Global Enrollment System expands a flawed records system without adequate protections, potentially enabling broader government access to personal like fingerprints and images. Critics contend this trusted traveler model inherently weakens border security by creating exploitable divides between screened and unscreened entrants, as adversaries could adapt to evade detection thresholds. In response to the OIG findings, CBP concurred with all six recommendations and implemented , including phased enhancements to officer training, increased oversight of enrollment processes, and updates to database checks via the Consolidated Consular Database to strengthen eligibility verification. Administrative reforms have included harmonizing application procedures and fees across trusted traveler programs, raising the Global Entry fee from $100 to $120 effective October 1, 2024, to support improved and operational enhancements. Additional updates, such as expanded online services for appointment scheduling and status tracking, aim to streamline enrollment while addressing processing delays.

References

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