How to Apply and Get Approved for the Must-Have Global Entry I.D. Card

I wish I had known about the Global Entry Program years ago, but I am grateful that I know now! This program is a game changer for global travelers. In this post, I will help you understand the application process, prepare you for the interview, and share with you all of the benefits of the Global Entry Card. Please read on.

I read about a few people’s experiences going through the application process for the Global Entry Program and they mentioned that it took months. My experience was completely different. The process did not take long at all; from the time I submitted my application to the time that I received my card in the mail took about 3 weeks. I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I was processed and received my card just in time for my international trip to Martinique!

The length of time might differ for you to get approved, but the process as a whole is consistent regardless of where you live. Please see below for a step-by-step guide to getting a Global Entry card and what to expect during the interview.

The Application Process

Step 1: Apply by going to https://ttp.cbp.dhs.gov

Step 2: You will be prompted to create a log in for the login.gov site (Remember your username and password b/c you will have to log in a few times to check your status)

Step 3: Have your passport handy or driver’s license as they will ask you to enter this information. **This ID is what you will bring to the interview**. They will also ask you to enter the places you have traveled to in the last 5 years.

Step 4: Be prepared to know your home addresses and work history from the past 10 years. Double check what you enter because once you submit your application you cannot go back to correct the information.

Step 5: Submit your application. You will then receive an email stating that your application is under review.

You will need to wait until you receive an email from the Trusted Travelers Program (TTP) stating that there has been a change in your status. When you log-in to your profile, you will hopefully see that you have been “conditionally approved” and be able to schedule an interview.

Step 6: You will choose a day and time to have your interview with the Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Officers.

I chose to have the earliest interview appointment. I was able to see the CBP Officer at JFK on the same day that I received the email about scheduling the interview!

The Interview

The interview did not take longer than 5 minutes. My interview was at 4pm. I got there a few minutes early. I was greeted by a CBP Officer who took my passport and had me sit in a room with a couple other people to watch a short video on how to use the Global Entry kiosks. After watching the video twice, my name was called to sit with one of the officers. These are the questions she asked me:

1. What is your full name?

2. Have you ever been arrested?

3. Which countries have you visited in the last 5 years?

4. What is your home address?

She then took a quick picture of me and that was it! I was told that I would receive my card within 7- 10 business days. I received it exactly 7 days after the interview.

The process is worth it as there are several key benefits to getting this card. Please see the benefits below.

The Benefits

• The Global Entry Card costs $100 and it is good for 5 years.
• It includes the TSA pre-check benefit, which allows you to have use of the expedited security line. This means you get to keep your shoes and belt on and you do not have to take your laptop out of your bag. The process is a lot quicker!
• When you arrive into the United States, you can skip the Customs Officials and use the Global Entry kiosks reducing your wait time to enter the States.

In order to utilize these benefits, you must make sure that the airlines with which you are travelling accepts the TSA pre-check program. See a list of Participating Airlines .

Check out all the airports that have the Global Entry Kiosks: Airports with Global Entry Kiosks

Have you enrolled in the program yet? What are your thoughts? Please share your comments below!