All about Global Entry
If you’ve traveled internationally before, you’ve probably heard of Global Entry, but do you know how it can save you time and headaches when traveling with your family? Whether you’re navigating airports with young kids or just want to streamline your international travels, Global Entry is a really nice perk to have. There is a fee increase on the horizon (although nothing drastic), so now is the perfect time to apply. Let’s dive into what Global Entry is, how to apply for your family, and how you can get it free of charge with certain credit cards!
What Is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers expedited entry into the US after international trips. As a Global Entry member, you’ll skip the long lines at customs by using a self-service kiosk to scan your passport and fingerprint and be on your way. The purpose of it is to make international travel faster and more convenient.
Bonus: Membership also includes TSA PreCheck, which speeds up domestic security screening in US airports, letting you keep your shoes on and your electronics and liquids in your bag. This is especially helpful when traveling with kids and juggling bags, snacks, a stroller, and other essentials. You can enroll for TSA PreCheck separately, but it is included in a Global Entry membership.
How to Apply for Global Entry as a Family
Applying for Global Entry is pretty straightforward, but each adult family member needs their own membership. Historically, kids needed their own memberships too, but beginning October 1, 2024, that is no longer the case. Kids will be able to accompany their parent or guardian through the expedited screening process free of charge and without their own memberships (provided their parent or guardian has one of course).
We decided to enroll in Global Entry before the fee increase, so we’ll share the steps we took and some helpful details we learned along the way.
Go to login.gov and create a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) Account:
Every applicant needs their own TTP account. Parents can manage accounts for their kids, but each account must be linked to the parent’s account. If you already have TSA PreCheck, you likely have a TTP account too. There is a password reset option on the site if needed.
Complete the Application:
The application involves providing personal information, travel history, and answering a few questions.
Pay the Application Fee:
The current fee is $100 per person, and it covers a 5-year membership. However, beginning October 1, the fee will increase to $120. All the more reason to apply now if (like us) you’ve been meaning to do it!
Schedule an Interview:
Once your application is conditionally approved (you’ll be notified via email when that occurs), you will need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
There are two ways to handle the interview. The first option is to schedule an appointment for a center near you (most likely your home airport). But if you already have plans to travel internationally in the near future, you can enroll upon arrival at a USairport after an international flight via the Enrollment on Arrival program to skip the scheduling process. The risk with this approach is since you don’t have a scheduled appointment, you may need to wait. And enrolling your whole family in one fell swoop (without an appointment) might be a tall order, but it’s an option nonetheless.
Bring Required Documents:
At the interview, you’ll need to bring your passport, driver’s license, and any other documentation required. You will need to answer a few straightforward questions during the interview as well. The details will be confirmed to you via email.
Credit Cards That Cover the Cost of Global Entry
As an added bonus, many travel credit cards offer Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement as a cardholder benefit. Here’s a list of popular credit cards that reimburse you in some capacity - if you have one of them, we recommend checking the fine print to verify the details.
Conclusion
Global Entry is an excellent investment to simplify travel for your family, especially if you frequently travel internationally. With the fee increase looming, it’s smart to act now if you can. Plus, with so many credit cards offering reimbursement, there’s really no reason to delay.
If you’re interested in opening a new card, we’d so appreciate you using our referral links above. It won’t cost you anything, but it gives us a few referral points to add to our stash.
Thank you in advance! We’re here if you have any questions!
❤️ Liz
Friendly reminder: We are not financial advisers, we are simply sharing our method and approach with you. Of course, it's important to use credit cards responsibly. Pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges, and never spend more than you can afford just to earn rewards.
