Waiting in long queues after an international flight is a common frustration for travelers entering the United States. But there’s a program designed to help speed things up: Global Entry. Run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), this popular program allows pre-approved travelers considered “low-risk” to use special kiosks for faster processing through customs and immigration.
So, how do you get this time-saving status? Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies:
Who Can Apply?
There are two main groups of people eligible for Global Entry:
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U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents: If you hold a U.S. passport or are a green card holder, you can apply.
Citizens of Partner Countries: The U.S. has agreements with several countries allowing their citizens to apply. This list currently includes (but isn’t limited to): Germany, El Salvador, Brazil, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, Croatia, Japan, United Kingdom, Colombia, Bahrain, Mexico (NEXUS members may also use Global Entry), Australia, The Netherlands, Argentina, India, Dominican Republic, Singapore, Switzerland, Panama, and South Korea.
Important: If you’re a citizen of one of these partner countries, there might be extra rules you need to follow based on your nationality. It’s best to check the official CBP website under “International Arrangements” for details specific to your country.
Applicants generally need to be 18 or older, though children can apply with parental consent (more on that below).
Watch Out: Reasons Your Application Might Be Denied!
Getting approved isn’t automatic. CBP looks carefully at each application. You could be denied if you:
- Provide false information or leave parts of your application incomplete.
- Have any criminal convictions, pending criminal charges, or active warrants (including for DUIs).
- Have previously broken customs, immigration, or agriculture laws anywhere in the world.
- Are currently under investigation by any police or federal agency.
- Have been blocked from buying a firearm.
- Are not allowed entry into the U.S. under immigration laws (even if you have a special waiver).
- Ultimately, cannot convince CBP that you are a low-risk traveler.
Bringing the Kids? Global Entry for Minors
Children under 18 can also get Global Entry! Here’s what parents need to know:
- There’s no minimum age to apply.
- A parent or legal guardian must give consent for the child to apply.
- The parent/guardian does not need to be a Global Entry member themselves.
- Every child needs their own separate application submitted online.
- The standard $120 application fee (which is non-refundable) is usually waived for minors if their parent/guardian is already enrolled or has applied for Global Entry.
- All applicants, including children, must attend an in-person interview. Minors must bring a parent or legal guardian to the interview.
Info: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry/eligibility
Is It Worth It?
For frequent international travelers, Global Entry can save significant time and hassle at the airport. Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements and have a clean record to increase your chances of approval. Honesty and accuracy on your application are key.
