How to Apply For Global Entry
How do you save time at the airport?
One of the best ways is to get through security faster. If you want to start skipping long lines, then consider applying for Global Entry. We have used our Global Entry status to move quickly through security lines upon return to the US. As an added bonus, you also can get TSA pre-check on many domestic flights. Two time-saving deals for the price of one!
What follows is a quick rundown exactly how we applied for the Global Entry card and how long each step took.
When Capital One Venture cardholders were offered the opportunity to reimburse any application for Global Entry we jumped on the opportunity.
Before you begin the application, make sure you will be able to travel to the interview location. You can find an alphabetical list by state. Where we live in Pennsylvania there are only two locations for global entry, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
Step 1: Complete the online application through the Trusted Traveler Program and pay the fee. Ideally, use one of the many credit cards that will reimburse you.
We completed the online application on June 13 which took about an hour for both of us. You need to be able to input the addresses of your recent employers and homes. Between the two of us, we've switched jobs and homes, so it took us a bit of time to make sure we were accurate.
Step 2: Schedule interview online after receiving conditional approval (via email).
We received the approval on June 17 and were able to schedule an appointment for 3 weeks later.
From what we've heard, once your conditional approval comes through, the interview is a formality and an opportunity to confirm your identity and documents in person.
Side note: We automatically received our reimbursement for Global Entry 15 days after we paid for it. Thanks Capital One!
Step 3: Interview Time!
Bring your passport, documentation of your current address (driver's license is acceptable), print out of your known traveler number. (Although no one asked us for the third item.)
Your interviewer may ask you questions related to where you have traveled and where you are traveling next (things that they know already, but you are there to confirm.
Your interviewer will take your picture and finger prints on both hands.
Step 4: Approval
We received an email verifying our approval 13 minutes after we left the airport!
Once you are approved, you can add your nine-digit known traveler number to your existing or upcoming travel reservations.
When flying, you get to skip filling out the customs' form on the plane and after you deplane, you can head straight to the Global Entry kiosks with your passport to confirm your identity.
Step 5: Receive & Activate Global Entry Card
We received our card in the mail exactly 1 week after our interview and approval.
You don't actually need this card when reentering through an airport, but you will need it for entry at land and sea ports.
Once you have received your card in the mail, activate it, and keep it safe. It's good for 5 years.
Step 6: Skip the lines when you return to the U.S.
There are often 3 components to arriving back in the U.S. and going through customs. 1. Fill in the declaration paper online. 2. Get in line at a machine to have your picture taken. 3. Speak with an agent who will allow you to head back into the country.
Using Global Entry, we were able to skip the form on the plane, get in a line of 4 people for the automated machines (instead of a line of 200) and we did not have to worry about the dreaded "X" on our print out. We walked to the exit and were walking to our car in no time.
Step 7: Use TSA Precheck lanes for domestic flights
Once you have your "known traveler number," go ahead and log into all of your airline accounts and add the number to them. This will allow you to qualify for TSA pre-check on your next flight. (This can be seen on both a mobile boarding pass and a paper one.)
When you arrive at your domestic airport, walk up to the TSA precheck lane and marvel at the luxury of being able to keep your shoes on.
Now that I have travelled alone with a baby, I have to say we are very grateful for this program. I could not imagine trying to untie my sneakers and take them off with an infant clinging to me. It's the little things that can make a travel day better.