Are you tired of spending excessive time in airport security lines? A Trusted Traveler Program can significantly expedite your entry process into the United States. Global Entry, a flagship initiative by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), offers pre-approved, low-risk travelers a streamlined and efficient airport experience.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is designed to accelerate your passage through customs and immigration upon arrival at U.S. airports. Becoming a member of this trusted traveler program means you can bypass standard queues and utilize dedicated Global Entry lanes. This program leverages advanced processing technology to quickly verify your identity and membership, making your arrival experience much faster.
How Does Global Entry Work at Airports?
Upon arriving at a participating U.S. airport, Global Entry members head directly to the designated Global Entry lanes. Here, processing technology will capture your photo to confirm your enrollment. Following the on-screen instructions after the photo capture, you will then briefly meet with a CBP officer to finalize your entry. This entire process is designed to be significantly quicker than traditional customs lines.
Enrollment and Application Process
To enjoy the benefits of a trusted traveler program like Global Entry, pre-approval is mandatory. The application involves a thorough background check and a mandatory in-person interview. This rigorous process ensures the security and integrity of the program. For those unable to schedule an interview before traveling internationally, CBP offers Enrollment on Arrival at numerous U.S. airports. This allows you to complete your interview upon arrival back in the United States.
The Future of Expedited Entry: Global Entry Mobile App
Looking ahead, CBP is innovating further with the Global Entry Mobile App. This upcoming feature will allow members to validate their arrival within the U.S. using their personal iOS or Android devices even before reaching the Federal Inspection Services area. This promises to add another layer of convenience and speed to the trusted traveler experience.
Important Considerations for Program Members
While trusted traveler programs like Global Entry are designed for speed and convenience, it’s important to remember that members may still be selected for further inspection. Adherence to the terms and conditions of the program is crucial. Any violation can lead to enforcement actions, including the termination of membership privileges.
Trusted traveler programs, exemplified by Global Entry, provide a valuable service for frequent international travelers seeking to save time and reduce stress at airports. By enrolling in such a program, you can experience a smoother, faster, and more predictable entry process into the United States.
