What you need to know about Global Entry
What is Global Entry?
It’s a program in which participants clear U.S. customs and Border patrol when returning from other countries. Currently, there are several Global Entry airports in the U.S., which speeds up clearing Customs 100% of the time.
How does the program work?
Global Entry participants go through an expedited clearance upon returning to the U.S. Instead of waiting in long lines for a Customs and Border Protection agent, participants enter the country using a touch screen kiosk in the airport’s arrival area.
Who’s eligible to sign up?
Global Entry is for low-risk leisure and corporate travelers.
How do I sign up?
Submit a Global Entry application with the $100 fee. Next, schedule an in-person interview and fingerprinting at a Global Entry enrollment center. Consider scheduling your appointment for the next time you’ll be at the airport for your next trip. Just leave yourself enough time to do the interview and get through security for your flight. Once cleared for the Global Entry program, you’re automatically eligible for TSA’s Pre-Check program at no additional cost.
What you need to know about TSA’s Pre-Check Program
What is the TSA Pre-Check program?
The program allows enrollees to go through expedited lanes in lieu of regular security lines at over 100 participating U.S. airports flying on 9 airlines: Alaska, American, Delta, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, United, US Airways and Virgin America.
How does TSA’s Pre-Check work?
Once approved, applicants receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that your corporate travel agency uses to identify you when booking your travel. Pre-Check passengers move through designated Pre-Check lines faster because they aren’t required to remove shoes, coats, belts, 3-1-1 compliant bags or laptops. For a quick review of how helpful this can be, see the video below:
Who’s eligible to enroll?
U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) without convictions for certain crimes.
How do I apply for the Pre-Check program?
Make an appointment at your nearest application center or pre-enroll online (currently available for Indianapolis, LA, NY and DC areas) then schedule your appointment. Important: A background check and fingerprints are required. The $85 fee is nonrefundable so make certain your name matches exactly on all documentation before applying. For example, if you ID includes your middle name, so should your frequent flyer account and name on your reservation.
TSA’s Pre-Check isn’t a sure thing all the time. Enrollees can be subjected to screening without access to the Pre-Check lanes at airports where they’re available.
Where in the World Do You Want to Go?
Inspired to plan your next weekend getaway, vacation or trip of a lifetime? See that form below? That’s all it takes to begin your next epic travel story.