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Global Entry is highly regarded for international travel. It lets members bypass long immigration lines when coming back to the U.S.
Now, for the first time in 15 years, the federal government plans to raise the cost of this popular program.
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the application fee for Global Entry will increase to $120 starting on Oct. 1. The current cost is $100.
CBP emphasized the importance of updating the fee structures for the continued success of these programs.
Despite the fee increase, CBP also announced some good news. With the new price comes a new perk: Travelers under 18 will no longer have to pay the application fee if they have a parent or legal guardian applying for themselves. Or if they are already a part of the program
Global Entry is just one part of the Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler programs. The application process includes a background check and an in-person interview. Scheduling these in-person interviews is difficult; the wait times can be several months.
Luckily, the Enrollment on Arrival program is also available at 65 different airports across the U.S.
This program allows travelers to start their Global Entry application and get conditional approval. And conduct the interview portion when they arrive at the airport’s international terminal.
As the name of the program suggests, no prior appointment is needed. For travelers leaving from Washington Dulles International Airport, there’s also a similar Enrollment on Departure program.
With a Global Entry membership, you enjoy an expedited process upon arrival in the U.S. and the added benefit of TSA PreCheck. This perk offers a shorter security process for entering the airport, giving you peace of mind and more time to enjoy your journey.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
