Global entry is an initiative from the Department of homeland security (DHS) to expedite the security check at arrival into the United States. The fast security check will only apply to members of the global Entry program.
This service will give its members an opportunity to get dedicated security lines on the TSA precheck of some airlines.
One important part of Global entry is that you won’t have to be in queue with others waiting for security checks.
This has made members of Global Entry look like VIPs once they arrive at participating airports.
You will also get fast entry into United States customs locations, including the TSA precheck – making it more valuable than ordinary TSA precheck membership.
What is Global Entry
The United States Customs and border protection services launched Global entry to allow members get expedited clearance.
There’s a kiosk at some airports through which these pre-approved and low-risk members can use the NEXUS lane.
Many jet owners now use faster entry since they will not wait for long before clearance.
Others who don’t own private jets can also use this program to fasten the speed of the airline clearance they face. Even though it’s not all airlines that are offering this service, you will still enjoy being a member.
There are over 100 centers if you desire to enroll for this program and the cost is just $100 for five years. That’s around $1.6 per month for You to have a better travel experience; anytime you board flights into the United States.
There may be a serious change to this price since they are nursing to take it up to $120. However the membership cost remains $100 until the increments take effect.
What does it take to join Global entry
The process will involve going through a background check which will be a determinant on whether you can join the program. This program is for low-risk travelers. So, if after the background check and you don’t fall under the low-risk category, you won’t get approval.
Other things that can either help you with membership:
- You must be a US citizen
- You must be a Foreigner with permanent residence (green card)
- Canadian citizens that are members of NEXUS can enjoy the full benefit of Global Entry.
- Citizen of these countries can apply for Global entry:
- Germany
- Mexico
- India
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- United Kingdom
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Argentina
- Columbia
- Panama. (other countries may join the program later)
- Individuals from the country above who want to take part in this program should have zero criminal records. Must not be on terrorism watch list or have any form of involvement in crimes.
Is Global entry the same as TSA precheck?
There are clear differences between the two but they offer relatively close benefits. Membership on global Entry gives automatic capability to benefit from TSA precheck programs.
- Global entry is a program for international flights and local flights but TSA precheck only works in local airlines.
- Low-risk travelers from other countries can join Global Entry but the TSA precheck program accepts only U.S. Citizens.
- The price for global Entry membership is $100 but TSA precheck is just $78
- Children under the age of 12 can enjoy the same benefits from their TSA precheck member parents. The Global program demands that everyone traveling with children must enroll them.
The bottom line is that TSA is made to serve local travelers and global Entry to serve international travelers.
How to Apply for Global Entry
The process will take some time to complete but the wait is worth it. The application will involve a physical interview and you will also undergo a background check.
- The first step is to create an account on the trusted traveler program website.
- After your account is set. Use your login details to login and go through the online application. Fill in all the required information.
- Proceed to make payment for the membership fee. (only $100)
- If you are approved for this stage, move ahead to schedule an interview appointment at any enrollment center nearest to you.
- Go ahead for the interview! You should take your identity card with you plus another mode of identification, which can be your driver’s license or passport. There’s a message on your trusted traveler account with your conditional approval letter.
How to activate your Global Entry card
When the interview is done, you will receive your membership card within two weeks. You then go on to activate your card using the online trusted traveler website.
Your known Traveler Number should also arrive immediately if you are approved for Global Entry.
Go on to use your known traveler number by adding them to flight reservations on “TSA precheck” Column. You are free to use all the global benefits after activating your card.
Should I join Global Entry?
If you think you need dedicated security lines at the TSA for faster security checks then it’s worth it.
Remember that you can also get faster US custom clearance if you are a member of Global program.
Do you know that the time you waste on the unending queue because of security checks is worth more than $100? Definitely. What if you miss an important business appointment because of ordinary security lines? You see, there are more benefits to this program than just being stingy with $100.
Frequently asked questions
Is Global entry and TSA precheck the same?
No, however, you can’t literally separate them since they both function to make your travel experience awesome.
TSA precheck gives children under the age of 12 free passes if they are with an adult that is a precheck holder. Global Entry requires everyone, whether baby or grown-ups, to register for the program before they can become eligible to enjoy the benefits.
Is Global entry worth the price?
Yes. The price cannot equate to the massive benefits you will receive from this program.
How long does it take to process program?
The process does not take more than 90 days but you still have up to 2 years to complete the registration after conditional approval.
Conclusion
Global Entry is a program that will give members an opportunity to receive a dedicated security line at the airport. The members will also enjoy faster custom clearance at all the recognized airports.
The membership process may involve background checks since only trusted travelers have the qualifications to apply.
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