Have you ever wanted to travel and not have to wait in long lines? I have to. As an American, and a middle-class one at that, it’s hard to justify paying for an expedited passport or a visa for that matter. Some other countries provide better service than we do in the U.S. However, some people live near Canada and are able to use Global Entry; but if you’re not located there you’re still out of luck. Though I’ve written this article for people looking to obtain Global Entry for travel in the U.S., I may accidentally cover some false information about the passage into Canada. Please get clarification from the airport or border control if needed when entering Canada as it is a separate process from application/will call appointment booking and retrieving your card itself.
You can apply for Global Entry in two ways:
Online: Fill out an application and pay the $100 non-refundable fee. You’ll receive a confirmation email when your application has been submitted.
In-person: Visit a Global Entry Enrollment Center with a valid passport and fill out an application form. You’ll receive a confirmation email when your application has been approved.
Benefits of a Global Entry Card:
Eligible travelers can use Global Entry kiosks at select airports to complete their CBP inspection process and obtain their admission document (Form I-94W), which is required for international travel.
Travelers are not required to complete any paperwork or wait in line to be admitted into the United States.
Travelers receive automatic membership in TSA Precheck, which provides expedited security screening at more than 200 U.S. airports and on participating airlines when flying domestically within the United States.
Travelers no longer need to remove laptops from bags when going through security, as they can keep electronics in their carry-on luggage while going through airport checkpoints within the United States (expedited security lines).
You can apply for Global Entry in two ways:
Online: Fill out an application and pay the $100 non-refundable fee. You’ll receive a confirmation email when your application has been submitted.
In-person: Visit a Global Entry Enrollment Center with a valid passport and fill out an application form. You’ll receive a confirmation email when your application has been approved.
Who can Apply:
All U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) can apply for Global Entry membership. You must also be at least 18 years old to use and not have any previous criminal record (or pending criminal charges). If you are not a citizen of the United States but are still interested in applying for Global Entry,
How to Apply
To apply for Global Entry, you must fill out an application online or print one out from the CBP website (https://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/trusted-traveler-programs). If you already have an account then visit the global entry login page and fill up details for signup, You’ll need to provide your name, address, and social security number, among other information.
Next, schedule an appointment at one of several nationwide enrollment centers. This can be done over the phone or online; however, it’s best to call ahead to ensure there aren’t any issues with your application before
you make the trip. Once approved, you’ll need to take a photo and provide your fingerprints. Your Global Entry card membership will be activated as soon as you leave the enrollment center.