What Is Global Entry & How Do I Get It?

When you travel internationally, you have to clear U.S. Customs before being allowed back into the U.S. Depending on how many people are on your plane and how many other flights are arriving at the same time, these lines can be extremely long. One way to reduce your wait time is by signing up for Global Entry.

Here's what you need to know about Global Entry, including how it compares with TSA PreCheck, what it costs and how to get it for free.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler membership program offered by the Department of Homeland Security. It requires an application fee, a background check and an in-person interview. Once approved, your membership lasts for five years.

As a member, you'll receive expedited security screening through the TSA PreCheck lanes at participating domestic airports, as well as accelerated entry at eligible U.S. Customs locations at land borders.

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Who can get Global Entry?

Global Entry is open to U.S. citizens and U.S. lawful permanent residents. Additionally, membership is available for citizens of select other countries:

• South Korea's Smart Entry Service members.

• Citizens of Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom may apply.

• Canada's Nexus members may not apply but can use Global Entry benefits.

There is no minimum age for Global Entry, but minors require consent from a parent or legal guardian. Each person, regardless of age, must have their own Global Entry account.

Differences between TSA PreCheck and Global Entry

With Global Entry, you receive all of the benefits of TSA PreCheck, plus extra perks. While the interview is more in-depth and there are fewer locations that offer them, the slightly higher cost might be worth it if you travel at least once in the next five years.

Unlike TSA PreCheck, every person in your traveling group needs to have a Global Entry membership to go through the dedicated Global Entry lanes.

With PreCheck, children 12 and under can join a parent in the TSA PreCheck lanes, even without an indicator of having PreCheck on their boarding pass. Children 13-17 must show TSA PreCheck on their boarding pass.

» Learn more: TSA Precheck or Global Entry: Which is right for you?

This chart highlights the similarities and differences of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

What is the fee for Global Entry?

Applying for Global Entry is $120 every five years. The fee is nonrefundable, and it won't be refunded if you apply but aren't approved.

Even if you go on only a handful of trips over the next five years, signing up for Global Entry can be worth it to avoid that long airport line at the end of a long international flight.

How to get Global Entry through travel cards

While many people pay cash for their Global Entry application fees, others can use their travel card benefits to get a statement credit for the fee. Many travel cards reimburse Global Entry application fees every four to five years.

Terms apply.

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How to apply online for Global Entry

You can sign up for Global Entry in five steps.

1. Create a Trusted Traveler Programs account.

2. Log in to your TTP account and complete the online application.

3. Pay the $120 application/membership fee.

4. Upon conditional approval, schedule an appointment at a Global Entry enrollment center.

5. Attend your interview, bring your passport and one other form of identification and have your fingerprints taken.

How does a Global Entry interview go?

During your interview, the agent will verify the answers that you provided on your online application and review your identification documents. They'll take your picture and your fingerprints as well. The process usually takes 10-15 minutes.

If you don’t have a Global Entry enrollment center nearby or are waiting for an appointment, you can perform an "enrollment on arrival" at many domestic and international airports. This allows you to do your Global Entry interview and finalize your enrollment at designated U.S. Customs stations. You must, however, already be conditionally approved to use "enrollment on arrival" .

After you're approved for Global Entry

Once you are approved for Global Entry, you’ll receive your Known Traveler Number immediately. Your Global Entry ID card will arrive a couple of weeks later, and you should log into your account to activate it within 30 days if you want to use the card to enter via land. However, you can start adding your KTN right away to existing flight reservations and airline loyalty program profiles.

By adding your KTN to reservations, you’re able to use the dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at more than 200 airports across the U.S. Plus, you can use the Global Entry lanes at U.S. Customs when returning from international travel.

Additionally, several countries offer reciprocal benefits for Global Entry members, such as Mexico’s Viajero Confiable and Australia's SmartGate. Some programs are free, while others require a fee.

What happens if you are declined?

If your Global Entry application was denied, you may be provided a written explanation about the decision. You may request reconsideration through the Trusted Traveler Program website by including the following:

• Date of denial and reason.

• Information to clarify a record or explain an incident or arrest.

• A PDF of court disposition documentation for all arrests or convictions (even if expunged).

• Other supporting documentation related to your request.

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Renewing Global Entry

You can renew your Global Entry membership one year before it expires. Renewals are done online and require another $120 fee.

You may or may not need another interview. Once you do the online renewal, keep an eye on your email for any status updates.

Is Global Entry worth it?

Global Entry is worth it if you plan to travel internationally in the next five years. Sure, the application fee is higher than the TSA PreCheck fee, but don't discount the value of your time and the happiness that comes with skipping a long line after a long flight.

Plus, several credit cards pay for Global Entry application fees. The next time you’re skipping the long line at U.S. Customs when returning from an international flight, you’ll be glad you signed up.

The Global Entry Spotter tool can help find an available appointment so you can get up and running quickly.