# Global Entry Guide: Cost, Interview, and How It Works URL: https://emptvl.vercel.app/travel-guides/global-entry-guide Publisher: Empyrean Travel (https://emptvl.vercel.app/) Last reviewed: 2026-10-19 Global Entry explained: the 2026 fee, what’s included, how the interview and Enrollment on Arrival work, and whether it’s worth it for international travelers. **Quick answer:** Global Entry is a CBP trusted traveler program that speeds pre-approved travelers through US customs and immigration on arrival, and it includes TSA PreCheck. As of 2026, the application fee is $120 for five years, and minors are free when a parent is enrolled or applying. Approval requires a background check and an in-person interview. - Cost (as of 2026): $120 for 5 years - Includes: TSA PreCheck - Minors: Free with an enrolled or applying parent - Interview: Enrollment center or Enrollment on Arrival - Apply at: ttp.dhs.gov ## How does Global Entry work? When you land in the US from abroad, Global Entry members skip the regular passport control line. At most major airports, you use facial-recognition processing at Global Entry portals or kiosks, then exit with minimal questioning. Members can also use the Global Entry Mobile App on arrival. Your membership includes a Known Traveler Number for TSA PreCheck, and the Global Entry card is an accepted ID for domestic flights. See REAL ID explained. ## How do you apply for Global Entry? Apply through the official Trusted Traveler Programs website. Steer clear of third-party sites that charge extra to submit the same form. - Create an account at ttp.dhs.gov and complete the application - Pay the $120 fee (as of 2026); minors are free with a parent already in or applying for Global Entry - Wait for conditional approval after CBP’s background check - Complete your interview at an enrollment center or through Enrollment on Arrival - Add your Known Traveler Number to airline profiles ## What is Enrollment on Arrival? Enrollment on Arrival lets conditionally approved applicants complete their interview when returning from an international trip, without a scheduled appointment, at participating airports. You simply follow signs for Enrollment on Arrival after landing. CBP also offers Enrollment on Departure at select airports. Both options are popular because enrollment center appointments can be hard to get in busy areas. ## Is Global Entry worth it? If you travel internationally even once or twice a year, usually yes. You get faster re-entry plus TSA PreCheck for every domestic flight, for a modest fee spread over five years. Frequent business travelers often find it essential. See international business travel. If you rarely leave the country, TSA PreCheck alone may be enough, and the free Mobile Passport Control app can shorten arrival lines on the occasional trip. ## Who is eligible for Global Entry? US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, and citizens of certain partner countries can apply. Applicants with certain criminal records or past customs, immigration, or agriculture violations may be denied. Every traveler needs their own membership, including children. Travelers who frequently cross the Canadian border may also consider NEXUS, which includes Global Entry benefits. ## Frequently asked questions **Q: How long is Global Entry valid?** A: Global Entry membership is valid for five years. You can apply to renew before it expires through the Trusted Traveler Programs website, and many renewing members aren’t required to repeat the interview, though CBP may request one. Renew early, because processing times vary and you’ll want your benefits in place for upcoming international trips. **Q: Does Global Entry include TSA PreCheck?** A: Yes. Global Entry members receive a Known Traveler Number that also gives access to TSA PreCheck lanes on participating airlines at US airports. Enter your KTN in each airline reservation and frequent flyer profile so the PreCheck indicator prints on your boarding pass. That makes Global Entry better value than PreCheck alone for international travelers. **Q: Do children need their own Global Entry membership?** A: Yes. Each traveler, including infants and children, needs their own Global Entry membership to use the Global Entry lanes. As of 2026, CBP says minors are free when a parent is already enrolled in or applying for Global Entry. Children still complete the application process, including an interview with a parent or guardian present. **Q: How long does Global Entry approval take?** A: It varies widely. Some applicants receive conditional approval within days, while others wait weeks or months, depending on background checks and application volume. After conditional approval, you still need to complete the interview. Apply well before your next international trip, and use Enrollment on Arrival if enrollment center appointments are scarce near you. **Q: What if I can’t get a Global Entry interview appointment?** A: Use Enrollment on Arrival. Once conditionally approved, you can complete your interview at participating US airports when returning from an international trip, with no appointment needed. CBP also offers Enrollment on Departure at select airports. Check CBP’s website for current participating locations before your trip. ## Sources - [CBP: Global Entry](https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry) - [DHS Trusted Traveler Programs](https://ttp.dhs.gov/)