Is Global Entry worth the wait?

Global Entry can save you time at U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Members skip processing lines and access automated kiosks instead. This can mean you spend less time waiting in line to be screened by a CBP officer, getting you on your way faster.



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Frequent travelers and travel professionals agree that Global Entry is worth the hassle of applying and going through the interview process.

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Global Entry is a federal program allowing members faster screening when returning to the U.S. A five-year membership is $100 and includes TSA Precheck. The Trusted Traveler Programs website estimates application processing times of four to six months for Global Entry.

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The only potential downsides of Global Entry is that it requires fingerprinting and background check and costs $100 every 5 years. Scheduling and completing your Global Entry interview can also be a hassle, which is why taking advantage of Enrollment on Arrival can be wise.

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According to a New York Times article, 3 to 5 percent of the 30,000 Global Entry traveler applications submitted each month are rejected. Most common reason? Criminal background checks come up with some sort of red flag that causes the application to be rejected prior to any interview.

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Where to find walk-in appointments for Global Entry. You cannot walk in for a Global Entry on arrival appointment unless you are just arriving from an international trip.

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If you rarely travel abroad and don't want to pay for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck is $78 for a five-year membership and gives you expedited security checks at more than 200 select airports in the U.S. If you don't have a U.S. passport, this is the best option.

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Global Entry is everything that TSA PreCheck is and more. If you have Global Entry, you'll automatically also get TSA PreCheck and all of its benefits. On top of that, you'll get to avoid the general customs line when returning to the U.S. from abroad.

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In summary, Global Entry is for expedited entry into the United States for pre-approved, low-risk travelers from any country, Sentri is for expedited entry into the United States for pre-approved, low-risk travelers from the United States and Mexico, FAST is for expedited entry into the United States for pre-approved, ...

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Individuals can have memberships denied or revoked when found: In violation of customs, immigration or agriculture regulations or laws in any country. Inadmissible to the United States under an immigration regulation.

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