Interested in Global Entry? Here’s how to apply
July 12, 2019
Getting Global Entry before a big trip will prove to be beneficial for anyone traveling through customs.
At airports, program members proceed to Global Entry kiosks, present their machine-readable passport or U.S. permanent resident card, place their fingerprints on the scanner for fingerprint verification and complete a customs declaration. The kiosk issues the traveler a transaction receipt and directs the traveler to baggage claim and the exit. It’s a much faster process than standing in 2-hour long lines. (Plus, it also comes with TSA Pre-check!)
Travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrollment.
Interested in applying? Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your Global Entry.
First, Log onto the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website by clicking here.
Click ‘Get Started’ under the Global Entry column. From there you will be taken to another page to create a username and password.
Once you’ve made your account, you will then be prompted to fill out the application. This application consists of the following:
-Personal Information
-Documents (i.e. Proof of citizenship via an active passport.)
-Driver’s License
-Vehicle Information
-Address Information
-Employment Information
-Travel History (List of countries you’ve visited in the last 5 years.)
*You must have an active passport to apply for Global Entry.
You will be subject to a background check once your submit your application. Global Entry is a voluntary program available to those who pass a comprehensive background check and have no disqualifying criminal history.
You may not qualify if any of the following apply:
-You provide false or incomplete information on the application.
-You have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges to include outstanding warrants (including under the influence.)
-You have been found in violation of customs, immigration or agriculture regulations or laws in any country.
-You are the subject of an investigation by any federal, state or local law enforcement agency.
-You are inadmissible to the United States under immigration regulation.
-You have waivers in-admissibly or parole documentation.
-You cannot satisfy CBP of your low-risk status or cannot meet other program requirements.
If your application is conditionally approved, your dashboard page will show ‘Conditionally Approved’. Please note: it may take up to 8 weeks for approval.
Once approved, your dashboard will give you the option to schedule an appointment. You will scroll down to Alabama and choose ‘Huntsville (Huntsville Enrollment Center).
You may pick a date most convenient for you, or choose ‘next available date’.
For your interview, bring your Passport, Driver’s License and the letter of conditional approval. (You are given the option to print on your dashboard).
Please Note: While Global Entry’s goal is to speed travelers through the process, members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States. Any violation of the program’s terms and conditions will result in the appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.
Already have Global Entry and just need to RENEW?
You can renew your Global Entry in a few simple steps. The process takes around 6-8 weeks and if all of your information is exactly the same as the last time you applied, you may not have to attend an interview.
Follow these steps to renew your Global Entry Membership:
- Log onto the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website by clicking here.
- Once you Log In to your account Select Manage Membership– the Trusted Traveler Program Enrollment page will then display.
- Select the Renew Application button– the Personal Information page will then display.
- Follow the steps shown on screen to enter your information, proceed to payment and submit.