Global Entry is part of the Trusted Traveler Program offered by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to travelers deemed low risk. Global Entry members can skip queues at customs on arrival at any of the 75 participating airports in the United States and other parts of the world. To become part of the Global Entry program, one must submit an online application form. CBP then performs a thorough background check on each applicant.
Do you hate having to wait in long lines, especially at the airport? Does a boring security check feel that complicated to you? If you answered yes to both questions, then it’s time for you to get your Global Entry card.
The Global Entry application process is fairly easy. However, it is important to note that not all applicants are guaranteed approval.
Here’s how to apply for your Global Entry card.
Submit an online form
The first step in the Global Entry application process is to create your Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account. Each applicant must create their TTP account, regardless of their age.
After logging in to your TTP account, complete the online application form. A non-refundable $ 100 fee must be paid in advance after submitting the application form. It would be best to check with your credit card provider or bank if they reimburse you for the Global Entry application, as some banks do.
Expect to provide personal information on your application, such as full name, date of birth and place of residence. You will also be asked to reveal physical identity characteristics, such as height and eye color. It is important to fill out the application form as honestly as possible and provide only true and complete information. Failure to do so may result in CBP rejecting your Global Entry application.
Wait for the live interview schedule
After an extensive review of your application and a background check, conditionally approved applicants will be given a date for their in-person interview via their TTP account. Interviews will be conducted at your nearest Global Entry Enrollment Center.
On the date of your interview, remember to bring your valid passport and other forms of identification, such as a valid driver’s license or ID card for verification purposes. For legal permanent residence, you must present your permanent resident card.
The interview itself will be quick. Expect it to be around ten to fifteen minutes. The Global Entry officer must verify the information you submit in your online application form. You may be asked about your current employment status or your previous employment history among other questions that may be based on their background check. Global Entry Officers already know the answers to these questions, they just need to check your integrity and honesty.
After the interview, you will be asked to take your fingerprint and official photo and you are done with the entire application process. All you have to do is wait for your card to be sent to you.
It is important to conduct yourself professionally during the interview. Any disrespectful act against a Global Entry officer interviewing you or other staff at the center may incur your application fee.
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, there have been some reported delays in processing Global Entry applications, as some Registration Centers are closed. However, CBP announced that they will open in August.
Wait for your card to be delivered
Once done, all you have to do is wait for your Global Entry card to be sent to you in seven to ten days. Some users reported receiving their cards even before the given timeframe. Always check your TTP account for updates regarding the status of your Global Entry application.
Use it on your next trip
When you receive your Global Entry card, you can now use it on your next trip. You can insert a Global Entry card when booking online ticket reservations so you can streamline security checks at airports. When arriving at one of the airports with Global Entry kiosks, all you have to do is scan your Global Entry card to pass through Customs and Immigration.
The entire Global Entry application process is simple. However, due to the current global pandemic, expect some delays in processing your application. However, Global Entry is one of the things that can make traveling faster and easier for you.