A lot of time can be lost waiting in the border inspection line upon arrival in the United States. Run by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency, the Global Entry programme provides pre-approved, low-risk travellers expedited – in other words, speedier – clearance.
How does it work?
Rather than passing through ordinary border inspection lines, programme participants proceed to Global Entry kiosks. There, at the kiosk (an ATM-like machine), they scan their machine-readable passport (or U.S. permanent resident card), place their fingertips on a scanner for fingerprint verification, and finally make a customs declaration. The kiosk issues a flyer with a receipt. The flyer is then free to proceed through customs onward to baggage claim
What are the benefits?
Essentially, it’s all about saving time, with the added bonus of not having to stand in line or fill out forms. Though aimed at frequent flyers, the programme is open to any person who meets the enrolment requirements.
Who is eligible?
Global Entry is open to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, Dutch citizens, South Korean citizens and Mexican nationals. Canadian citizens and residents may enjoy Global Entry benefits through membership in the NEXUS programme.
How does the application process work?
First off, it’s important to note all applicants undergo a rigorous background check and interview before enrolment.
Applicants must first complete an online form and sign-up for a government-run Global Online Enrolment System (GOES) account. At this stage they must also pay a $100 non-refundable application fee.
After review, applicants are then instructed to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrolment Centre of their choice (a list of centres can be found on the official website).
If an applicant is deemed eligible through interview, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer will take his/her photo and scan his/her fingerprints. Applicants are instructed to bring their passport and one other form of government-approved ID to the interview (e.g. driver’s licence).
Which airports have a Global Entry kiosk?
At the time of writing, 42 airports had Global Entry kiosks. A full list of participating airports can be viewed on the official site.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Featured image: Grant Wickes)
