Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports.
At airports, program members proceed to the Global Entry lanes where processing technology will be used to expedite the members by capturing a photo to verify their membership. Once the photo has been captured, the member will receive on-screen instructions and proceed to a CBP officer who will confirm that you have successfully completed the process.
Travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrollment. If a traveler was unable to schedule an interview at an Enrollment Center prior to their international travel, they have an option to complete their interview via Enrollment on Arrival upon their arrival to the United States.
Another upcoming processing technology option for travelers will be the Global Entry Mobile App. This app will enable members to validate their arrival to the U.S. on their iOS or Android device prior to entering the Federal Inspection Services area.
While Global Entry’s goal is to speed travelers through the process, members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States. Any violation of the program’s terms and conditions will result in the appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.
Global Entry offers a plethora of benefits that make international travel smoother and more convenient for approved members. Firstly, perhaps the most significant advantage is the expedited clearance process upon arrival in the United States. Global Entry members can skip the long queues at immigration checkpoints and instead use dedicated kiosks at select airports. These automated kiosks streamline the entry process by allowing travelers to complete their customs declaration electronically, submit their fingerprints for verification, and receive a receipt to present to a customs officer. By bypassing traditional immigration lines, Global Entry members can save considerable time and avoid the stress of waiting in crowded terminals, particularly during peak travel periods.
Another notable benefit of Global Entry is the inclusion of TSA PreCheck privileges for domestic travel within the United States. This means that Global Entry members enjoy expedited security screening at airports, with shorter lines and fewer requirements for removing shoes, belts, jackets, laptops, and liquids from their carry-on bags. The streamlined security process not only saves time but also reduces the hassle and inconvenience associated with traditional security procedures. Whether traveling domestically or internationally, Global Entry members can enjoy a smoother and more efficient airport experience, making their journeys more pleasant and stress-free.
Furthermore, Global Entry provides a sense of reassurance and peace of mind to travelers, knowing that they have undergone a thorough background check and vetting process. Approved members have been deemed low-risk travelers by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which can lead to smoother interactions with immigration and customs officials. Additionally, Global Entry membership includes access to trusted traveler programs offered by other countries, facilitating expedited entry into select international destinations. This reciprocal arrangement enhances the overall travel experience for Global Entry members, allowing them to navigate airports and border crossings with greater ease and efficiency wherever they go.
