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Global Entry
View on WikipediaThis article contains instructions or advice. (June 2025) |

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[update], 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
[edit]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
[edit]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
[edit]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.

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
[edit]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
[edit]
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
[edit]NEXUS and SENTRI
[edit]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
[edit]
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]
| Country | Members |
|---|---|
| 6,693,734 | |
| 216,819 | |
| 111,667 | |
| 40,810 | |
| 14,060 | |
| 8,532 | |
| 5,058 | |
| 4,708 | |
| 4,155 | |
| 3,569 | |
| 3,093 | |
| 3,024 | |
| 2,276 | |
| 2,203 | |
| 1,247 | |
| 582 | |
| 465 | |
| 28 | |
| Total | 7,116,030 |
Airports with kiosks
[edit]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
[edit]- Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC)
- Atlanta Hartsfield–Jackson International Airport (ATL)
- Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
- Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI)
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Burlington International Airport (BTV)
- Charleston International Airport (CHS)
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
- Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
- Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)
- Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)
- Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
- Guam A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM)
- Hartford–Springfield Bradley International Airport (BDL)
- Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
- Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
- Kansas City International Airport (MCI)
- Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE)
- Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
- Nashville International Airport (BNA)
- New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY)
- New York John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- New York Stewart International Airport (SWF)
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
- Oakland International Airport (OAK)
- Ontario International Airport (ONT)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
- Portland International Airport (PDX)
- Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)
- Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD)
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
- Saipan International Airport (SPN)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- San Jose International Airport (SJC)
- San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
- Santa Ana John Wayne Airport (SNA)
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
- South Bend International Airport (SBN)
- Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW)
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
- St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Toledo Express Airport (TOL)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
U.S. preclearance
[edit]- Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH)
- Aruba Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA)
- Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA)
- Calgary International Airport (YYC)
- Dublin Airport (DUB)
- Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
- Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
- Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL)
- Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
- Ottawa Macdonald–Cartier International Airport (YOW)
- Shannon Airport (SNN)
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
- Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
- Winnipeg Richardson International Airport (YWG)
Analogous systems in other countries
[edit]
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
[edit]- ^ According to the Taiwan Relations Act, U.S. laws treat Taiwan as a country despite the absence of diplomatic recognition.[28][29][30]
- ^ British citizens only.[31]
References
[edit]- ^ a b "Airports with Global Entry". U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This page also lists Grand Bahama International Airport, but its U.S. preclearance facility was permanently closed after Hurricane Dorian in 2019. "No Plans For U.S. Preclearance To Return To GB". Our News. March 9, 2023.
- ^ "CBP Launches Global Entry Enrollment on Departure at Atlanta International Airport". U.S. Customs and Border Protection. November 19, 2024.
- ^ http://www.globalsecurity.org/security/systems/inspass.htm USPASS (formerly INSPASS)
- ^ a b "How to Apply for Global Entry". cbp.gov. U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Retrieved December 3, 2015.
- ^ Coleman, Justine (February 6, 2020). "New Yorkers blocked from Global Entry program over immigrant license law". The Hill.
- ^ a b Ferré-Sadurní, Luis (February 7, 2020). "New York to Sue Trump Administration Over Global Entry Freeze". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved February 14, 2020.
Some states that have enacted the laws also have provisions to protect personal information from federal immigration officials, but federal authorities have said that none are as restrictive as New York's.
- ^ a b "New York sues Trump administration over 'punitive' ban from traveler programs". Reuters. February 11, 2020. Retrieved February 14, 2020.
- ^ "DHS suspends Global Entry, Trusted Traveler Programs for New York residents in response to sanctuary law". Fox News. February 5, 2020.
- ^ "New York Residents Can No Longer Sign up for Global Entry, DHS Chief Says". February 6, 2020.
- ^ McKinley, Jesse; Paybarah, Azi (February 12, 2020). "Global Entry Ban: Cuomo Offers Compromise to Trump on N.Y. Applicants". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved February 14, 2020.
- ^ Murdock, Sebastian (February 13, 2020). "Trump Tells Gov. Cuomo To Drop New York State Lawsuits Against Him". HuffPost. Retrieved February 14, 2020.
- ^ New York Amends Dangerous Green Light Law to Cooperate with Federal Law Enforcement on DMV Records, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, July 23, 2020.
- ^ "Trusted Traveler Programs - Employment and History Requirements". cbp.gov. U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Retrieved February 16, 2024.
- ^ Hamm, Catharine M. (May 29, 2013). "Almost a 'Trusted Traveler': Are the airport hassles behind her now?l". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved February 2, 2016.
- ^ "CBP Announces Trusted Traveler Programs Fee Changes" (Press release). Washington, D.C.: U.S. Customs and Border Protection. April 2, 2024. Retrieved April 2, 2024.
- ^ "Global Entry Frequently Asked Questions". GlobalEntry.gov.
- ^ Kheel, Julian Mark Kheel (February 22, 2017). "Do I Have To Interview Again to Renew My Global Entry?". The Points Guy.
- ^ Elliott, Christopher (May 2, 2019). "What you need to know about renewing your Global Entry membership". The Washington Post.
- ^ "Credit Cards and Loyalty Programs featuring TSA Pre✓®". TSA.gov. Transportation Security Administration. Retrieved September 2, 2019.
- ^ Stellin, Stella (October 8, 2012). "Frustrating Hurdle at Customs". The New York Times.
- ^ Kugel, Seth (April 24, 2014). "Global Entry and Company: Worth the Price?". The New York Times.
- ^ "Global Entry Touchless Portal Instructions | U.S. Customs and Border Protection". www.cbp.gov. Retrieved January 20, 2025.
- ^ "The Global Entry Mobile Application | U.S. Customs and Border Protection". www.cbp.gov. Retrieved January 20, 2025.
- ^ "Global Entry Card". US Customs and Border Protection. Retrieved August 26, 2018.
- ^ a b c d Trusted Traveler Programs, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
- ^ a b "NEXUS Cards". U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
- ^ "Global Entry Kiosks". CBP.gov. Archived from the original on October 27, 2011. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
- ^ 22 U.S.C. § 3303 – Application to Taiwan of laws and international agreements
- ^ "Visa Waiver Program". U.S. Department of State.
- ^ a b "Eligibility for Global Entry". U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
- ^ "Global Entry: apply for faster entry to the USA". Government of the United Kingdom.
- ^ "CBP moves closer to full Global Entry partnership with Costa Rica". U.S. Customs and Border Protection. August 29, 2023.
- ^ a b "Trusted Traveler Programs". Congressional Research Service. May 5, 2021. p. 20.
- ^ "CANPASS". Canada Border Services Agency. February 2, 2004.
- ^ Ethan (April 9, 2018). "DISCONTINUATION OF CANPASS AIR AND CANPASS PRIVATE BOATS PROGRAMS". Boating Industry. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
- ^ Corporate Applications / Corporate Systems Division / Solutions Directorate / Information, Science & Technology Branch / Canada Border Services Agency (May 17, 2013). "Directory of CBSA Offices and Services, CANPASS Air (CAN/AIR)". www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca. Archived from the original on August 4, 2021. Retrieved August 4, 2021.
- ^ "Automated border control for travel between South Korea and Germany". bmi.bund.de.
- ^ "Which nationalities can use EasyPASS?". easypass.de.
- ^ "e-Channel". IMMD.gov.hk.
- ^ "出入国在留管理庁ホームページ" (PDF).
- ^ "Viajero Confiable". GOB.mx.
- ^ "Viajero Confiable Locations". GOB.mx.
- ^ "ICA | enhanced-Immigration Automated Clearance System". www.ica.gov.sg. Retrieved January 13, 2020.
- ^ "Immigration & Checkpoints Authority - SINGAPORE - UNITED STATES OF AMERICA TRUSTED TRAVELLER PROGRAMME". icaeservices.ica.gov.sg. Retrieved January 13, 2020.
- ^ "ICA | Frequent Traveller Programme". www.ica.gov.sg. Archived from the original on December 30, 2019. Retrieved January 13, 2020.
- ^ "Smart Entry Service". ses.go.kr.
- ^ "e-Gate Enrollment". immigration.gov.tw. Archived from the original on February 26, 2024. Retrieved February 28, 2024.
- ^ "Partner Country e-Gate/U.S. Global Entry Program". immigration.gov.tw.
External links
[edit]Global Entry
View on GrokipediaHistory
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 United States. 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.[1] The program built on prior CBP trusted traveler efforts like NEXUS and SENTRI, 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.[12] Early operations focused on testing feasibility and scalability, with CBP monitoring usage metrics such as kiosk interactions to refine processes. By August 2009, enrollment had expanded to approximately 16,000 members, and Global Entry kiosks had facilitated over 100,000 uses, demonstrating initial success in streamlining arrivals without compromising security protocols.[13] This growth prompted formal rulemaking; in November 2009, CBP published a notice in the Federal Register proposing to codify the pilot as a permanent program, citing positive performance data from the first 16 months.[12] 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.[14] This transition from pilot to standard operation reflected empirical evidence of the program's efficacy in enhancing traveler throughput while maintaining vetting standards, with no major security breaches reported in the initial phase.[14]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 John F. Kennedy International, and Newark Liberty International—for pre-approved U.S. citizens.[1] On August 10, 2009, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) expanded the pilot to 13 additional airports, including Boston Logan International and Dallas/Fort Worth International, with enrollment centers and kiosks operational starting August 24, 2009.[15] [13] The program transitioned from pilot to full operation on November 19, 2009, via Federal Register notice, broadening eligibility while maintaining rigorous background vetting.[12] Early international expansion occurred on April 23, 2009, when CBP established a reciprocal agreement with the Netherlands, allowing Dutch Privium program members to enroll in Global Entry for expedited U.S. entry.[16] [15] 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.[17] [18] [19] 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.[1] [20] Membership reached 1 million by November 2013.[21] Growth accelerated, surpassing 2.4 million by fiscal year 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.[22] [23] By fiscal year 2023, Global Entry accounted for over 10 million of CBP's Trusted Traveler Program members.[24] Enrollment exceeded 13 million active members by August 2025.[25] Recent international partnerships include Japan in November 2024 and Australia in January 2025, alongside ongoing additions like El Salvador, reflecting CBP's strategy to reciprocal trusted traveler benefits with low-risk foreign nationals from select countries such as Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, and Croatia.[26] [27] [28] These expansions prioritize bilateral agreements for mutual expedited processing, with eligibility tied to partner programs and U.S. visa compliance.[6]Policy Interventions and Suspensions
In 2012, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) formalized the Global Entry program through a Federal Register 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.[14] This policy intervention standardized eligibility, requiring biometric enrollment and background checks while expanding airport kiosks, thereby institutionalizing the program's framework amid growing international travel volumes.[14] A 2019 Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (OIG) audit 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.[29] 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.[29] The COVID-19 pandemic 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 public health and resource allocation for border enforcement.[30] 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.[31][32] Existing members retained benefits, but the intervention highlighted tensions between program accessibility and crisis response, leading to subsequent digital enhancements for renewals.[31] 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.[33][34] These interventions emphasized causal links between data-driven audits and procedural tightening, prioritizing security over unchecked enrollment amid documented risks.[33]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 national security, public safety, and law enforcement.[4][35] Citizens of select partner countries with reciprocal arrangements may also apply, including Argentina, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Croatia, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom; Canadian citizens access Global Entry benefits through the NEXUS program.[4][6] Australia is additionally included under separate eligibility provisions for its nationals.[6] Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, though minors under 18 may apply with consent from a parent or legal guardian who is a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident.[4][35] All candidates undergo a rigorous background check by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which includes fingerprinting and evaluation of criminal history, immigration violations, and other factors.[4][10] Eligibility excludes individuals with any criminal convictions or pending charges, violations of U.S. customs, immigration, or agricultural regulations, receipt of criminal pardons (which do not mitigate ineligibility), or inadmissibility under U.S. immigration laws—even with approved waivers.[10] 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.[10] 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.[6]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).[5] They then complete an online application form, providing personal details such as passport information, address history, employment background, and travel records for the past five years.[5] 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.[2][36] Children under 18 may apply for free when a parent or legal guardian is enrolled or applying concurrently, though they must meet the same eligibility standards.[4] Following submission, CBP conducts a comprehensive background vetting process, cross-referencing applicant data against criminal, law enforcement, customs, immigration, agriculture, and terrorist watchlist databases maintained by federal agencies including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.[37] 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.[37] If no disqualifying issues are identified, applicants receive conditional approval via their TTP account and must then schedule an in-person interview.[5] 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.[38] 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.[39][40] 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 background.[5] 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.[10] Applicants must bring valid identification, such as a passport, to the interview.[10]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 background check conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).[5] Most applications receive initial review within two weeks, though complex cases requiring manual vetting can extend to 12-24 months.[2] Upon conditional approval, applicants must complete an in-person interview, after which full membership is granted, with cards mailed 2-4 weeks later.[10] 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.[41][42] Interview scheduling at enrollment centers has historically contributed to delays, with wait times varying by location and applicant nationality—U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents often seeing faster approvals than foreign nationals.[37] Conditional approvals can remain valid for up to one year, allowing flexibility, but uncompleted applications risk expiration.[42] A key improvement, Enrollment on Arrival (EoA), introduced in 2019 and expanded since, permits conditionally approved applicants to finalize their interview upon international arrival at over 70 U.S. airports and select land border ports without prior scheduling.[38] This process integrates with primary customs inspection, typically lasting 10-15 minutes, and has been extended to pedestrian and vehicle crossings at northern and southern borders as of 2025.[43] EoA has alleviated enrollment center bottlenecks, enabling same-day activation for travelers returning from abroad.[44] Additionally, 2024 regulatory harmonization with the SENTRI program standardized application procedures and fees, streamlining administrative handling for dual applicants.[45] These enhancements, combined with CBP's ongoing vetting optimizations, have contributed to shorter overall timelines amid rising application volumes exceeding 1 million annually.[2]Operational Procedures
Standard Entry and Clearance Process
Global Entry members arriving by air at participating U.S. airports bypass traditional passport control lines and proceed directly to designated automated kiosks for primary processing.[2] This self-service system verifies identity and handles customs declarations electronically, eliminating the need for paper CBP Form 6059B.[46] The kiosk process begins with scanning a valid passport or U.S. lawful permanent resident card to confirm membership and travel documents.[2] 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.[47] Members then respond to on-screen customs declaration questions regarding imported goods, agriculture items, and other declarations, with all items required to be reported accurately.[46] A digital photograph may also be captured for additional verification. Upon completion, the kiosk prints a transaction receipt, which members present along with their passport or resident card to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer stationed nearby.[2] 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.[2] This process is available at over 75 U.S. airports equipped with Global Entry kiosks, though availability and exact procedures may vary by location.[48] Members must ensure their membership is active and carry required documents, as failure to do so defaults them to standard processing lines.[10]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 passport or Global Entry card, completing a customs declaration, and providing fingerprints for verification against pre-enrolled biometrics.[2] 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.[49] A significant enhancement is the introduction of Global Entry Touchless Portals, which employ biometric facial comparison technology to verify identity without physical contact. Rolled out progressively since 2024, these portals capture a live facial 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.[50] 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.[51] This shift prioritizes facial recognition over legacy methods like iris scans, which have been de-emphasized in favor of more scalable biometrics.[52] The Global Entry Mobile App, launched in September 2023 and available for iOS and Android devices, further reduces reliance on fixed infrastructure by permitting members to submit arrival declarations and undergo facial verification remotely.[53] Users scan their passport via the app up to four hours before landing or upon arrival, bypassing kiosk lines when facial recognition confirms identity against enrolled data.[54] As of August 2025, the app supports processing at select airports, with CBP expanding compatibility to enhance efficiency amid rising international travel volumes.[55] These tools integrate with CBP's Traveler Verification Service, embedding facial biometrics for real-time threat assessment while maintaining privacy through opt-out options and data retention limits of 12 hours post-processing.[56]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 vetting integrity.[4][57][10] Disqualification also occurs for any criminal conviction, pending charges, or outstanding warrants, including driving under the influence offenses, reflecting the program's emphasis on low-risk travelers.[4][57][10] Violations of customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations or laws in any country result in ineligibility, as these indicate potential non-compliance with U.S. border security standards.[4][57][10] Individuals subject to ongoing investigations by federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies are ineligible, ensuring participants pose no active threats.[4][57] Inadmissibility to the United States under immigration regulations disqualifies applicants, aligning Global Entry with broader entry requirements.[4][57] Prior denial of Global Entry membership or previous revocation also bars reapplication, preventing repeated attempts without resolution of underlying issues.[4][57] U.S. Customs and Border Protection exercises discretion in final determinations, with reasons for disqualification provided in writing to applicants.[58]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.[58] Triggers include breaches of customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations, such as undeclared goods or prohibited items, as well as post-enrollment criminal convictions or associations raising security concerns.[59][60] 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 law enforcement, terrorist indices, or international partners.[61] 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.[58] 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.[58] 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.[62] Severe or repeated infractions result in indefinite termination, with no automatic right to reapply until CBP deems the risk mitigated, often years later.[63] 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 TSA PreCheck, which relies on Global Entry status for continuity.[63] Revoked members face standard queue processing at U.S. ports, increasing wait times, and may encounter heightened scrutiny in future CBP interactions or visa applications due to the program's integration with broader admissibility databases.[62] 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.[58]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 customs, immigration, or agricultural laws in any country, including minor infractions like failing to declare prohibited items.[4][10] Other frequent issues involve ongoing investigations by law enforcement or intelligence agencies, or determinations by CBP officers during interviews that the applicant poses a risk to national security or public safety based on discretionary judgment.[10] Upon denial, applicants receive a written notification from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) specifying the reason, typically accessible via the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) online portal.[58] 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 expungement or evidence correcting application errors; this process does not guarantee reversal and may take several months for review.[64] 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.[58] 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.[10]Related Programs
NEXUS and SENTRI Integration
Global Entry, NEXUS, and SENTRI 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.[65] NEXUS, a joint U.S.-Canada initiative, enables expedited clearance at land and sea ports of entry between the two nations, while SENTRI focuses on the U.S.-Mexico border, providing dedicated lanes for pre-approved vehicles and pedestrians.[66][67] 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 vetting processes.[49] Global Entry members may use their program-issued card for expedited entry via SENTRI and NEXUS lanes when entering the United States by land or sea, provided they comply with specific requirements such as vehicle pre-registration and scheduled appointments for SENTRI crossings.[68][69] This reciprocity extends to NEXUS lanes for U.S.-bound travel, though full NEXUS membership is required for entry into Canada.[68] Conversely, all current NEXUS members and U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents holding SENTRI memberships are eligible to utilize Global Entry kiosks at participating U.S. airports upon arrival from abroad, bypassing standard processing lines.[70] The TTP system streamlines applications and conversions between programs; for instance, applicants conditionally approved for SENTRI or NEXUS may switch to Global Entry without restarting the process, subject to final interviews and approvals.[71] NEXUS cards are also accepted at Global Entry kiosks, further bridging air and land travel modalities.[72] 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, NEXUS at $50, and SENTRI at $122.25 including vehicle processing.[49][2]TSA PreCheck and Domestic Benefits
Global Entry membership confers automatic eligibility for TSA PreCheck, a program administered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that provides expedited security screening for domestic and select international departures from U.S. airports.[2][73] 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.[10][57] 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.[74][75] 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.[74][42] Upon successful linkage, the boarding pass will display the TSA PreCheck 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.[76][77] As of 2025, TSA PreCheck 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.[78][79] 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.[76] Membership eligibility persists for the full five-year term of Global Entry, after which renewal requires reapplication through CBP processes.[2]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.[80] 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.[81]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 U.S. airports, enabling pre-approved members to complete primary inspection independently. Upon arrival from an international flight, 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 kiosk, and provide four fingerprints for biometric verification against enrolled data. The kiosk prompts for responses to customs declaration questions, captures a facial photograph for identity confirmation, and issues a transaction receipt if no discrepancies are detected; members then retrieve baggage, present the receipt at a bag inspection station, and exit without further officer interaction unless randomly selected for secondary screening.[2][82] These kiosks operate at 62 U.S. airports as of July 2025, primarily major international gateways such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and John F. Kennedy International Airport (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.[83][48] Recent technological upgrades include touchless portals at select airports, where members align their face with an on-screen silhouette for automatic biometric processing without manual passport handling or fingerprint 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 airports by September 2025—allows members to submit passport details and a selfie pre-arrival via smartphone, generating a QR code 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.[50][84]Preclearance and International Sites
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates preclearance facilities at select foreign airports, where travelers complete immigration, customs, and agricultural inspections before boarding U.S.-bound flights, eliminating the need for such processing upon domestic arrival.[85] 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.[86] Global Entry members at these sites access dedicated self-service 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 Dublin.[87][10] As of 2025, preclearance operates at 15 airports across six countries, facilitating over 20 million annual passenger inspections.[88] The locations include:| Country | Airports |
|---|---|
| Canada | Calgary International (YYC), Edmonton International (YEG), Halifax Stanfield International (YHZ), Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau (YUL), Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier (YOW), Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver International (YVR), Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson (YWG)[89] |
| Ireland | Dublin (DUB), Shannon (SNN) |
| United Arab Emirates | Abu Dhabi International (AUH) |
| Aruba | Queen Beatrix International (AUA) |
| Bahamas | Lynden Pindling International (NAS) |
| Bermuda | L.F. Wade International (BDA) |