Travelers have faced significant challenges in recent years while applying for Global Entry, the expedited airport service that allows passengers to breeze through passport control after international flights.
The COVID-19 pandemic initially created a considerable backlog of applicants awaiting in-person interviews, a necessary step for the program governed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Compounding this issue was an unprecedented surge in new applicants coinciding with a recovery in international travel demand.
However, securing an appointment may soon become easier.
“We’ve seen a notable reduction in the average time required for enrollment,” Matt Davies, CBP’s executive director for admissibility and passenger programs, stated to Flying Frugal.
Applying for Global Entry
The Global Entry application process consists of several steps.
First, applicants must fill out an online application through CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs dashboard. As of last fall, the enrollment fee increased to $120 for a five-year membership, though some travel credit cards offer reimbursement for this charge. (A Global Entry membership also provides access to TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security.)
Once the online application is submitted, most applicants receive “conditional approval” relatively quickly, generally within two weeks, as reported by CBP leaders last year.
However, the in-person interview with a CBP agent has been the main hurdle for many travelers looking to expedite their application process in recent years.
Further reading: Global Entry gets a high-tech, ‘on-the-move’ upgrade at 7 US airports
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A major factor contributing to the delays has been the sheer volume of applications.
In 2019, CBP welcomed a record 3.2 million individuals into its Trusted Traveler Programs—predominantly Global Entry applicants. Last year saw a staggering 4.5 million applications, and this year, CBP anticipates at least 4.2 million more applications.
This influx has made it difficult for travelers to secure interview appointments, particularly for those with limited scheduling flexibility.
Current Global Entry Wait Times
What do the current wait times for Global Entry look like?
On CBP’s Trusted Traveler Programs website, you’ll find estimated wait times for various expedited travel options, including just a few days for TSA PreCheck membership.
However, for Global Entry, the website states, “Times vary.”
Wait Times for Global Entry Applications
CBP leadership recently revealed to Flying Frugal that the average wait time for enrollment stands at about 52 days.
“More than 50% of our applicants are getting their approvals within 60 days,” Davies shared during a visit to the passport control facility at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). “Some of this depends on the applicant actively scheduling their interview or traveling.”
One contributing factor to quicker interview times is that CBP reports a leveling off in applicants for some non-Global Entry programs, likely linked to a decrease in travel from Canada to the U.S. This may free up more agents for interview slots.
Options if You Can’t Get a Global Entry Interview
In the meantime, what can travelers do?
Enrollment on Arrival
If you’ve received conditional approval for Global Entry but struggle to find an interview time, consider the Enrollment on Arrival option. This allows you to complete your interview after your international flight while passing through passport control at select airports.
Travelers who’ve opted for this route generally report a fast and effortless process.
Additionally, two significant East Coast airports have piloted a new Enrollment on Departure option, allowing applicants to complete their Global Entry interview at the airport while awaiting flight departures. This service is currently available at Miami International Airport (MIA) and Washington’s Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Check on the First Monday of Each Month
Traditionally, CBP releases new interview appointment slots on the first Monday of the month at 9 a.m. local time—so it’s advisable to set a reminder to check at that time.
While there are third-party services available that can help find appointment slots for a fee, it’s often more effective to explore your own attempts to secure a time first.
Consider Other Locations While Traveling
If you can’t find convenient options close to home, you may be able to secure an appointment while traveling. If you know you’ll have time during your trip, check for available slots in the area you’re visiting.
You can use CBP’s tool to search for appointment times, as availability can vary across the country.
Anticipating Future Waves
Looking ahead, CBP is bracing for another wave of Global Entry applications—specifically, for renewals.
After record sign-ups from 2021 to 2025, a historic surge of travelers will likely seek to renew their memberships, as the program operates on a five-year timeline.
Fortunately, the renewal process is generally more straightforward than initial applications and often doesn’t require an in-person interview.
After I submitted my renewal online in fall 2023, I received my full approval in just a few days, and my wife had a similar experience this past spring.
CBP is actively developing new processes to facilitate quick renewals for the majority of current members.
“Our goal is to ensure it’s quick, seamless, and easy,” Davies remarked, “ensuring that only in the most exceptional cases does anyone need to do anything beyond submitting an application to continue their membership.”
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