TSA Global Entry Application Tips

Frequent travelers who dread facing the long line at customs and immigration have the option to apply for TSA’s Global Entry program, which pre-approves international travelers for Customs and Border Patrol and allows them to re-enter their home country separately from the general population. But what is involved with applying for this program and who is eligible?

To apply for the TSA Global Entry program, travelers must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents or citizens of one of the 10 program-approved countries (such as the United Kingdom, Panama and Singapore). Applicants must create an account on the Global Online Enrollment System where users can then fill out an application and submit the necessary nonrefundable application fee of $100. If the application is approved, the applicant will be contacted to arrange an in-person interview at one of the nation’s Global Entry Enrollment Centers, after which they will be assigned a Trusted Traveler number.

If approved, the applicant also will receive a Global Entry card that will show a photo of the member and their traveler ID number, and membership is valid for five years. The Global Entry program also includes membership for the TSA Pre-Check program, which allows expedited security screening at domestic airports. Depending on the frequency of travel, taking the time to enroll in and pay for the Global Entry program may be a worthy endeavor.