For the latest and most accurate information on Global Entry and other Trusted Travel Program, refer to the official TTP Website
Global Entry is a program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that speeds up the entry process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers into the United States. It allows members to bypass long immigration lines and use dedicated kiosks at over 70 airports.
However, getting a Global Entry appointment has become increasingly challenging. As of early 2024, the demand for applications has surged leading to significant delays. Many enrollment centers report wait times of up to a year for interviews.
To address this issue, CBP has taken steps to improve the situation:
80% of eligible applicants now receive conditional approval within two weeks
150,000 interview slots are available nationwide over the next 90 days
Despite these efforts, the process can still be time-consuming. This guide will explore strategies to speed up your Global Entry appointment, including:
Using the Enrollment on Arrival program
Checking for appointment cancellations
Looking for less busy enrollment centers
By following these tips, you can potentially reduce your wait time from months to weeks or even days.
Keep in mind that the application fee for Global Entry will increase from $100 to $120 in October 2024, making it advisable to apply sooner rather than later.
How Global Entry Applications Work
The Global Entry application process involves several steps and can take several months to complete. Here's a breakdown of how it works:
Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account
Start by setting up an account on the official TTP website. This is where you'll manage your application throughout the process.
Complete the online application
Fill out the Global Entry application form. This was not the fun part and in fact took me about an hour to complete.
Personal information
Employment history (since August 2017)
Travel history
Other background details
Pay the application fee
Submit the non-refundable $100 fee. This fee covers your membership for five years if approved.
Wait for conditional approval
After submitting your application, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will review it. This step can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Schedule and attend an interview
Now comes the tricky part 😅
If conditionally approved, you'll need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. This is often the most time-consuming part of the process due to limited appointment availability.
PRO TIP: Consider using a scanning service to find last minute cancellations and skip the line.
Application Processing Times | Percentage of Applicants |
|---|---|
60 days or less | 33% |
105 days or less | 50% |
Up to 11 months | Remaining applicants |
Getting Ready for Your Interview
Preparing for your Global Entry interview is crucial to ensure a smooth process. Here's what you need to know:
Required Documents
Bring the following original documents to your interview:
Valid passport or permanent resident card
One additional form of identification (e.g., driver's license or ID card)
Proof of residency (if your address differs from your ID)
Interview Process
The interview typically lasts about 15 minutes and includes:
Verification of your identity and documents
Questions about your application and travel history
Fingerprinting and photographing
Brief training on using Global Entry kiosks
Common Interview Questions
Be ready to answer questions such as:
Are you a U.S. citizen?
Do you plan to fly internationally to the U.S. within six months?
Have you applied for Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI before?
Tips for Success
Arrive early to allow time for security checks
Bring more documents than the minimum required
Be honest and straightforward in your answers
Know your criminal history, if applicable
Membership Revocation
Your Global Entry status can be revoked for various reasons, including criminal convictions or violating customs laws. If this happens, follow the same appeal process as for denials.
