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Why You Should Apply for Global Entry Right Now

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If you are a frequent international traveler, you know how frustrating it can be to wait in long lines at the airport when you return to the U.S. You have to fill out a customs declaration form, scan your passport, answer questions from a border officer, and collect your luggage. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour or more, depending on the time of day, the number of flights arriving, and the staffing level of the customs and border protection (CBP) agency.

But what if I told you there is a way to skip all that hassle and breeze through the airport in minutes? Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not. It’s called Global Entry, and it’s a program that allows you to enjoy expedited entry into the U.S. and other countries. Here are some of the benefits of Global Entry and why you should apply for it right now.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a trusted traveler program that is run by the CBP. It is designed to facilitate the entry of pre-approved, low-risk travelers into the U.S. and other participating countries. Global Entry members can use dedicated kiosks at select airports to scan their passport or U.S. permanent resident card, place their fingerprints on the scanner, and complete a customs declaration. The kiosk will then issue a receipt and direct the traveler to the baggage claim and exit. No need to interact with a border officer or fill out a paper form.

Global Entry is valid for five years and costs $100 to apply. However, you can get this fee reimbursed if you use certain credit cards that offer this benefit, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the [Platinum Card from American Express]. You can also use your Global Entry membership to access [TSA PreCheck], which allows you to enjoy expedited security screening at U.S. airports. TSA PreCheck alone costs $85 for five years, so you are getting a great deal with Global Entry.

How to Apply for Global Entry?

The application process for Global Entry is fairly simple, but it can take some time and patience. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account online and fill out an application form with your personal information, travel history, and background information.

  • Pay the $100 nonrefundable application fee with a credit card that offers a fee credit or with another payment method of your choice.

  • Wait for your application to be reviewed and conditionally approved by the CBP. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few months, depending on the volume of applications and the availability of CBP staff.

  • Once you receive an email notification of your conditional approval, log in to your TTP account and schedule an interview with a CBP officer at one of the [Global Entry enrollment centers] or at one of the [enrollment on arrival locations] if you are traveling internationally. You can also use the [Mobile Passport app] to find the nearest enrollment center and schedule an interview.

  • Attend your interview with your valid passport or U.S. permanent resident card, a second form of ID, and your conditional approval letter. The interview will last about 15 minutes and will involve verifying your identity, taking your photo and fingerprints, and asking you some questions about your travel habits and eligibility for the program.

  • If you are approved, you will receive a Global Entry card in the mail within two weeks. You can also access your membership number and expiration date online through your TTP account. You can use your Global Entry card as a form of ID at the airport, but you don’t need it to use the kiosks. You just need your passport or U.S. permanent resident card.

What are the Benefits of Global Entry?

Global Entry has many benefits that make it worth applying for, especially if you travel internationally frequently. Here are some of the main advantages of being a Global Entry member:

  • You can save time and avoid stress at the airport by using the Global Entry kiosks instead of waiting in the regular customs and immigration lines. According to the CBP, the average processing time for Global Entry members is less than five minutes1.

  • You can also enjoy expedited entry into other countries that have reciprocal agreements with the U.S., such as Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. You can find the full list of participating countries and their respective programs [here].

  • You can access TSA PreCheck for free, which allows you to go through a faster and easier security screening at U.S. airports. You don’t have to remove your shoes, belt, jacket, laptop, or liquids from your carry-on bag. You also get to use a dedicated lane that is usually shorter and quicker than the regular one.

  • You can enjoy other perks and discounts from various travel partners, such as airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and cruise lines. You can find the full list of Global Entry travel benefits [here].

Conclusion

Global Entry is a great program that can make your international travel experience more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. It can save you time, money, and hassle at the airport, as well as give you access to other benefits and opportunities. If you are a frequent international traveler, you should definitely apply for Global Entry right now and enjoy the perks of being a trusted traveler.


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