How to Apply for the Global Entry Program

By Frank Macek

Travelers know the feeling: after a long international flight, you’re exhausted, eager to get home, and staring at a line that snakes endlessly through customs. But there’s a faster way back into the United States: Global Entry, the trusted traveler program administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

For frequent travelers, Global Entry is a game-changer. It not only provides expedited re-entry into the U.S. at airports nationwide, but it also includes TSA PreCheck benefits—speeding up your security checks on domestic flights. That means less time waiting in line and more time enjoying your trip.

If you’re thinking about applying, here’s a complete guide on how the program works, what it costs, and the steps you need to follow to get approved.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. government program designed to help pre-approved, low-risk travelers move quickly through customs when returning from international trips. Instead of standing in the standard customs line, members can use dedicated kiosks—or now, in many airports, facial recognition scanners—to verify their identity and speed through.

The membership lasts five years, and best of all, it comes bundled with TSA PreCheck. That means shorter domestic security lines and generally faster airport experiences both at home and abroad.

Who is Eligible?

Global Entry is open to:

• U.S. citizens
• U.S. lawful permanent residents
• Certain foreign nationals (depending on agreements between the U.S. and other countries, such as Mexico, South Korea, and Germany)

Applicants must be considered “low risk.” That means no disqualifying criminal convictions, customs violations, or false statements during the application process.

Step 1: Create a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) Account

The process begins online at the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website operated by CBP. Every applicant needs their own account—even children.

1. Visit the TTP site: ttp.dhs.gov.
2. Click “Get Started” and create an account using your email address.
3. Provide your basic information (name, address, phone number).
4. Verify your email and log back into the system.

This account will track your entire Global Entry journey—from application to interview to final approval.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

Once your account is active, you’ll need to fill out a detailed application form. This step takes some time, so be prepared to provide:

• Personal details (full name, date of birth, gender, and contact information)
• Address history (for the past five years)
• Employment history (for the past five years)
• Travel history (countries visited in the last five years)
• Citizenship and residency documents (passport and driver’s license or green card)

Accuracy matters. Any errors or omissions could slow your approval.

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

The Global Entry application fee is $100, nonrefundable—even if you’re denied. Payment is made online by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.

The good news: Many premium credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum, will reimburse this fee as a travel benefit.

Step 4: Wait for Conditional Approval

After you submit your application and payment, CBP will conduct a background check. This step can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on demand and your personal history.

You’ll be notified in your TTP account when you’ve received conditional approval. At that point, you can move forward to the interview stage.

Step 5: Schedule Your Interview

Conditional approval means you’re halfway there. The next step is an in-person interview with a CBP officer.

Here’s what to know:

1. Where to go: Interviews are held at Global Entry Enrollment Centers located at major airports and some city offices. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport has a center, making it convenient for Northeast Ohio travelers.
2. Scheduling: Log into your TTP account to book an appointment. Wait times can stretch for months, especially at busy airports, so plan ahead.

3. What to bring:

• Valid passport(s)
• Driver’s license or state ID
• Permanent resident card (if applicable)
• A printout of your conditional approval letter

During the interview, the officer will review your application, ask questions about your travel history, take fingerprints, and snap your photo.

Step 6: Consider Enrollment on Arrival

If you’re struggling to find an interview slot, you may be able to use Enrollment on Arrival (EoA). This program lets conditionally approved travelers complete their Global Entry interview upon returning to the U.S. from an international trip.

Instead of booking an appointment, you simply approach the CBP officer at the EoA booth after landing. Not every airport offers this option, but many major hubs do—including Chicago O’Hare, Detroit, and New York JFK.

Step 7: Get Final Approval

After your interview, if everything checks out, you’ll be officially approved as a Global Entry member. You’ll receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN), which you can enter into airline reservations to unlock TSA PreCheck privileges.

A physical Global Entry card will also arrive in the mail. While not necessary for airport use (your passport is primary), the card can be handy for land border crossings with Canada and Mexico.

Using Global Entry

Once approved, using Global Entry is simple:

1. Upon re-entering the U.S. at a participating airport, head to the Global Entry kiosks or facial recognition gates.
2. Follow the prompts to verify your identity.
3. Collect your receipt and proceed to baggage claim or exit.

Most travelers breeze through in minutes—skipping the long customs lines entirely.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Apply Early: Processing times can stretch, especially during busy travel seasons. Apply at least six months before your next international trip.
• Keep Your Info Updated: If you move, change jobs, or get a new passport, update your TTP account right away.
• Don’t Forget Renewal: Global Entry is valid for five years. You can renew up to a year before expiration, often without a new interview.
• Check Credit Card Perks: Many travel cards cover the $100 fee—an easy way to save.
• Travel with Your Card: Especially useful at land borders with Canada or Mexico.

Alternatives to Global Entry

Global Entry isn’t the only trusted traveler program. Depending on your needs, you might also consider:

• TSA PreCheck ($78 for 5 years): Domestic airport security perks only—no customs benefits.
• NEXUS ($50 for 5 years): Best for frequent travel between the U.S. and Canada.
• SENTRI ($122.25 for 5 years): For those who frequently cross the U.S.-Mexico border.

For most international flyers, though, Global Entry is the best overall value because it bundles both international and domestic perks.

Frank’s Final Thoughts

Global Entry isn’t just about convenience—it’s about peace of mind. After a red-eye flight or a long overseas journey, the last thing you want is to spend another hour standing in a customs line. With a one-time investment of $100 and a little patience during the application process, you’ll unlock five years of smoother travel, both abroad and at home.

As someone who travels frequently, I can tell you: the first time you breeze past a crowd of weary passengers and step straight into the U.S. in minutes, you’ll know Global Entry was worth every penny.

So don’t wait—start your application today. The world feels much closer when your return home is just that much easier.

Source: Official Trusted Travelers Program, Department of Homeland Security