GLOBAL ENTRY PROCESSING TIME: All You Need To Know

Processing times for Global Entry applications range from a few days to several months, with an average of 93 days in 2023. Applications’ volume, accuracy, completeness, background checks, interview availability, adjudication procedure, external factors, incomplete or inaccurate travel history, adjudication review, delays in scheduling interviews, and the pandemic impact are all factors that affect processing time. Continue reading to learn more about global entry processing time.

Checking your eligibility, setting up a Trusted Traveler Programs account, completing the application, paying the non-refundable $100 fee, getting conditional approval from US Customs and Border Protection, and setting up an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center are all steps in the Global Entry application process. Due to its adaptability, practicality, and advantages of accelerated entry, the application is essential for foreign travelers. Wait times are cut down, a physical card is provided, and security is improved. For individuals looking for a seamless travel experience with accelerated admission and security screening, it’s a useful tool.

Global Entry Processing Time

The processing of Global Entry applications could take a few days to many months. The application process can take up to six months to complete, and in 2023, the average processing time for Global Entry applications was 93 days. But in recent years, there have been delays and longer processing times.

Factors Affecting the Processing Time for Global Entry

Several variables can affect how quickly applications for global entry are processed. These factors include:

#1. Application Volume

Processing times may vary depending on how many applications U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) receives. The time it takes CBP to review and process each application depends on how many there are.

#2. The Application’s Completeness and Accuracy

It is essential to submit a thorough and correct application. Applications that contain errors or missing information may cause delays since CBP may need to ask for more information or explanation.

#3. Background Checks

Applications for Global Entry are subject to extensive background checks, including inquiries into criminal history and immigration status. Background checks may require additional examination and perhaps longer processing times if problems or discrepancies are discovered.

#4. Interview Availability

Applicants must set up an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center after submitting their application. Slots for interviews may or may not be available, depending on the area and demand. Longer wait times for an interview appointment could occur due to a lack of interview slots.

#5. Adjudication Process

After the interview, CBP reviews the application and interview results before making a decision. Depending on the workload and resources that CBP has, the length of this adjudication process may vary.

#6. External Factors

Outside factors like changes to policy, workforce levels, or unforeseen events may also have an impact on the processing time for Global Entry applications. These elements can be out of CBP’s control and may cause delays.

#7. Incomplete or Inaccurate Travel History

CBP examines a candidate’s travel history as part of the background investigation procedure. Additional verification can be necessary if an applicant’s travel history is unreliable or inadequate, which could prolong the processing time.

#8. Review of the Decision

For a variety of reasons, including errors in the application or information that was detected during the background check, an application may occasionally need extra consideration by a CBP officer. This additional review may lengthen the processing time.

#9. Delays in Interview Scheduling

The Global Entry application process requires scheduling an interview, but due to high demand or limited availability at some enrollment centers, attaining an interview date may take longer than anticipated. Processing times may therefore be extended generally.

#10. Pandemic Impact

The pandemic has affected numerous government operations, including the processing of Global Entry applications. Longer processing times may have been a result of restrictions, closures, and reduced staffing at enrollment centers and processing facilities during this time.

The following actions will shorten the processing time for global entry:

#1. Submit a Complete and Accurate Application

Make sure you fill out your Global Entry application with all the necessary information precisely and thoroughly. Check your application twice before submitting it to reduce the possibility of delays brought on by incomplete or inaccurate information.

#2. Set up a Meeting as Soon as You Can

Schedule your interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center as soon as you have submitted your application. It’s advisable to schedule your interview early to minimize scheduling conflicts and potential delays.

#3. Be Ready for the Interview

Review the necessary paperwork in advance of your Global Entry interview, and be prepared to discuss your past travel experiences, educational background, and eligibility. The interview process might move more quickly if you are well-prepared.

#4. Continue to Monitor Your Application

If, after a fair amount of time, you haven’t heard anything regarding the status of your application, you can get help from the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) or the Global Entry Enrollment Center. If you need assistance, they might be able to give you information or speed up your application.

#5. Think About Additional Trusted Traveler Programs

Consider applying for other trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck or Nexus if you require expedited processing but Global Entry is experiencing longer wait times. These programs provide comparable advantages and might process applications more quickly.

#6. Use Enrollment Centers With Lower Demand

If at all possible, schedule your Global Entry interview at a less busy or high-demand enrollment center. This could accelerate the processing time and help you get an earlier appointment.

#7. Use Other Programs to Apply for a Known Traveler Number (KTN)

You can submit your Known Traveler Number (KTN), obtained through services like TSA PreCheck, in your Global Entry application. The background check procedure could be sped up as a result of some of the information having already been validated.

#8. Supply-Backing Documentation

Include any supporting documents you have with your application if they can help validate your information or address any potential problems. This can lessen the likelihood of delays and streamline the review process.

#9. Take Conditional Approval Programs into Account

For specific groups, including U.S. military personnel, CBP offers conditional permission programs where the application process may be sped up. If you are eligible for any of these programs, it can hasten the processing of your Global Entry application.

#10. Use Enrollment on Arrival (EoA)

The Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) program is available to Global Entry applicants who have received conditional approval. When you arrive at a participating U.S. international airport, you can finish your Global Entry interview thanks to EoA. You can save time and avoid scheduling a separate interview appointment if you do this.

Here is a step-by-step explanation of how to apply for Global Entry.

#1. Verify Your Eligibility

Please confirm that you are eligible for Global Entry before applying. These prerequisites include being a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, or a citizen of a few other nations.

#2. Register for a TTP (Trusted Traveler Programs) account.

Create an account by going to the Trusted Traveler Programs website. You will manage your Global Entry application with this account.

#3. Finish the application.

Enter your TTP account information to finish the Global Entry application. Give accurate and thorough facts about your background, travels, and contact information.

#4. Make the application fee payment.

Send in the $100 non-refundable application fee. This fee, which is payable online via the TTP website, covers the processing of your application.

#5. Conditional Acceptance

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will assess your application after you’ve submitted it. You will be notified on your TTP account if your application is conditionally granted.

#6. Arrange an interview.

Log into your TTP account after receiving conditional approval to schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. Separate interviews must be scheduled for each candidate. For the interview, bring a valid passport and another form of identification, like a license or ID card.

#7. Attend the Interview

Attend the Global Entry Enrollment Center interview as scheduled. A CBP officer will confirm your information, inquire about your prior travel experiences, and thoroughly explain the program during the interview. Additionally, your picture will be taken for the Global Entry ID card.

#8. Final Acceptance

Following a positive interview, your application will be examined, and if accepted, your Global Entry membership will be sent to you. Five years is the duration of this membership.
The Significance of Global Entry

An essential program, Global Entry provides qualified travelers with a number of advantages.

Here are some of the main justifications for the significance of the Global Entry application:

#1. Expedited Entry

Global Entry facilitates entry into the US. Approved travelers can utilize specialized kiosks to swiftly and effectively complete the admission process instead of waiting in lengthy immigration lines. This saves a lot of time, especially when traveling at peak times.

#2. TSA PreCheck Eligibility

Members of Global Entry are automatically qualified for TSA PreCheck, which offers accelerated security screening at U.S. airports that participate in it. Thus, you can anticipate shorter waits and proceed through security screening with your shoes and belt on and your laptop and drinks in your bag.

#3. The Convenience of International Travel

Global Entry offers more benefits than just accelerated entry into the US. Additionally, it grants faster entry into other nations. For instance, Global Entry members can use automated passport control kiosks in a few nations, which facilitates and expedites international travel.

#4. Stress and Time Savings

For frequent travelers, Global Entry can save time and lessen stress by skipping lengthy immigration and security lines. For people who frequently travel for work or pleasure and want to simplify their travel process, this is very advantageous.

#5. Access to NEXUS and SENTRI Programs

Access to the NEXUS program (for travel between the U.S. and Canada) and the SENTRI program (for travel between the U.S. and Mexico) are also included with a Global Entry membership. These programs can further improve your travel experience and provide similar expedited entry benefits.

#6. Trusted Traveller Network

Part of the Trusted Traveller Programmes network, which also includes the Nexus, Sentri, and TSA PreCheck programs, is Global Entry. Being a part of this network might enhance your travel experience and ease your journey across various nations and airports.

#7. Improved Security

A thorough background investigation and vetting procedure used for Global Entry helps increase security by identifying low-risk travelers. This enhances overall security measures by enabling border authorities to concentrate their resources on people who pose a greater risk.

#8. Convenience and Flexibility

Global Entry enables greater adaptability and convenience when traveling internationally. At immigration checkpoints, approved members can skip the lines and the paperwork, greatly streamlining and simplifying the arrival procedure.

#9. Global Entry Card

Members of Global Entry obtain a real Global Entry card after approval. Further streamlining the travel process, this card can be used as a backup form of identification for both domestic and foreign travel.

#10. Global Entry for Family Members

Members of the immediate family who are under the age of 18 can also be added to a Global Entry application. This makes family travel more effective and pleasurable for everyone in the family by enabling them to take advantage of the accelerated admission process.

How Long Does It Take To Get Global Entry Once Approved?

New members can anticipate receiving their Global Entry card within 2-4 weeks of being authorized for Global Entry. The Global Entry program is mostly dependent on the traveler’s passport and fingerprints; therefore, a physical card is not necessary to use the kiosks at airports. The card is primarily used for fast entry into the United States through the SENTRI and NEXUS lanes.

Is Global Entry That Much Faster?

In comparison to standard entry procedures, Global Entry provides a number of advantages that greatly speed up and improve convenience for foreign travelers. It provides quicker customs processing in the US, TSA PreCheck advantages, accelerated entrance back into the US after overseas travel, and access to specialized entry lanes for land and sea travel. Even though it’s not entirely seamless, it offers a lot of convenience and time savings.

Does Global Entry Get You Through Immigration Faster?

Absolutely, Global Entry can speed up immigration procedures for pre-approved, low-risk visitors after they arrive in the US. Dedicated processing lanes and kiosks are available to Global Entry members at several airports, which can expedite the entry procedure. Members of Global Entry can skip lengthy lines and go directly to a Customs and Border Protection officer for final confirmation after taking a photo and confirming their membership.

How Long Is the Global Entry Good For?

From the time of approval, a Global Entry membership is valid for five years. You must re-join Global Entry after the initial five years if you want to keep taking advantage of its advantages. A fresh application must be submitted, and a background investigation is required as part of the renewal procedure. However, since Global Entry membership does not renew itself, it is crucial to remember when it expires and start the renewal process in a timely manner to maintain your privileges.

How Much Does Global Entry Cost?

Five years of membership in Global Entry are $100. Even if your application is rejected, this cost is non-refundable. Additionally, there is no yearly charge associated with membership, but if you want to keep using the benefits of Global Entry, you must renew your membership every five years.

Is It Hard to Get Approved for Global Entry?

Getting authorized for global entry can be challenging, depending on your specific situation. An online application must be completed, a background check must be completed, and an interview must be scheduled. While some applicants might experience an easy application procedure, others might run into difficulties, such as trouble getting interview appointments because of application backlogs. The large number of applications that U.S. Customs and Border Protection has received has resulted in longer processing times.

Summary

Consider other trusted traveler programs, use enrollment centers with lower demand, apply for a known traveler number (KTN), provide supporting documentation, consider conditional approval programs, use Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) for conditionally approved applicants, and submit a complete and accurate application in order to speed up the processing of your global entry application. By following these steps, you can avoid scheduling separate interviews and save time.