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Landing in the U.S. after an international flight can be a daunting experience, especially when you’re exhausted and just want to get home. The prospect of standing in line for hours at customs is hardly appealing.
Global Entry allows travelers to bypass long customs lines and speed through the process with a dedicated line. While obtaining Global Entry status traditionally involves scheduling and attending an interview, often requiring travel to an interview location, there’s a more convenient option—Global Entry on Arrival.
What is Global Entry on Arrival?
Global Entry on Arrival allows you to complete your Global Entry interview at your arrival airport after an international flight, making the process much more convenient. Here’s how you can do it in three easy steps:
Step 1: Obtain Conditional Approval
The first step is to receive ‘Conditional Approval,’ which is straightforward:
- Visit the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website: Go to ttp.dhs.gov and select Global Entry.
- Create an account: Follow the prompts to create your account.
- Complete the application: This takes about 5-10 minutes. You’ll need your passport, another form of ID (like a driver’s license), and you’ll answer some basic questions about your residence, work history, and travel history over the past five years.
When you submit your application, you’ll be charged a $100 non-refundable application fee BUT before you click submit…
MANY travel rewards credit cards these days include a Global Entry statement credit, so you might already have a card in your wallet that covers this cost. Make sure you use THAT card and you’ll be given a statement credit covering this application fee.
For example, I purchased my Global Entry membership with my Chase Sapphire Reserve® and since the card offers up to $100 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS, it effectively cost me $0.
If you’re interested in a card that covers the cost of global entry or you think you might already have one but aren’t sure – check out this article which breaks down all the cards that offer Global Entry credits.
Conditional approval typically takes 24-48 hours, though processing times can vary.
Step 2: Arrive at a Participating Airport
Once you have conditional approval, you can complete your interview upon arriving from an international flight at a participating airport. This is known as Enrollment on Arrival, and it’s available at 63 airports across the USA and Canada. Check the latest list of participating airports on CBP.gov.
Remember, this option is only available when arriving from an international flight, not domestic connections. Follow the signs for Global Entry on Arrival once you land.
Step 3: Complete the Interview
At the airport, locate the Global Entry on Arrival area where officers will conduct interviews. You’ll need your passport and proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, utility bill, or mortgage statement.
During the interview, officers will review your documents, ask a few questions, and take your fingerprints. If approved, you’ll receive your Global Entry number and a card will be mailed to you. Note that you might not be able to use the expedited Global Entry lane during this initial entry as you may need to wait in the regular line for your interview.
Final Tips
- Ensure you have enough time in your layover to complete the interview process.
- Check for any travel rewards credit cards that may cover your application fee.
Using Global Entry on Arrival can significantly simplify and expedite your customs experience, making your return to the U.S. much smoother. If you found this guide helpful, subscribe for more travel tips and updates!
Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.