Securing a Global Entry interview can sometimes feel like trying to snag tickets to a sold-out concert. But did you know that Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) might be an option? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Global Entry walk-in interviews, from who qualifies ... to what documents you need to bring.
For official verbiage on Enrollment on Arrival, refer to the official blog post from the CBP.
If you can't wait for your next international trip to get Global Entry and have difficulty finding an appointment, consider signing up for Snapslot Global Entry Appointment Scanner. It wil notify you of availabilities right to your phone.
Exploring Enrollment on Arrival Interviews for Global Entry
Enrollment on Arrival is a CBP initiative that enables eligible travelers to complete their Global Entry interview as part of the immigration process when entering the United States. This program eliminates the need for a separate appointment at an enrollment center, potentially saving you weeks or even months of waiting if you happen to be coming back from an international flight. Super convenient for those that have an incoming travel and are conditionally approved.
Who is Eligible for Enrollment on Arrival?
To be eligible for Enrollment on Arrival, you must:
Have submitted a Global Entry application through the Trusted Traveler Programs website
Have received conditional approval for your application
Be entering the United States through a participating airport
It's important to note that you don't need to pre-schedule an Enrollment on Arrival interview. If you meet the above criteria, you can simply follow the process at a participating airport when you arrive in the U.S.
The Enrollment on Arrival Process
Here's a step-by-step guide to completing your Global Entry enrollment on arrival:
Arrive at a participating airport: Look for signs directing you to the Global Entry enrollment area or ask a CBP officer for guidance.
Inform the CBP officer: Let them know you're interested in completing your Global Entry enrollment.
Present required documents: Have your valid passport and one other form of identification (such as a driver's license) ready.
Complete the interview: Answer the CBP officer's questions truthfully. They may ask about your travel history, employment, and reasons for applying for Global Entry.
Provide biometrics: You'll be asked to provide fingerprints and have your photo taken.
Receive approval: If everything is in order, you'll be approved on the spot and can start using Global Entry immediately.
Participating Airports
Enrollment on Arrival is available at numerous airports across the United States and even at some preclearance locations abroad. Some of the major airports offering this service include:
Atlanta (ATL)
Chicago (ORD)
Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Miami (MIA)
New York (JFK)
San Francisco (SFO)
Washington Dulles (IAD)
and many more!
For a complete and up-to-date list of participating airports, check the official CBP website.
Benefits of Enrollment on Arrival
Opting for Enrollment on Arrival offers several advantages:
Time-saving: Avoid the potentially long wait for an enrollment center appointment.
Convenient: Complete your enrollment as part of your regular travel plans.
Immediate use: Start using your Global Entry benefits right away upon approval.
Flexible: No need to schedule a specific appointment time.
No appointment needed: can't find an appointment at your location, then this is perfect if you happen to be coming back from an international trip.
