Who is Eligible for Global Entry?

Global Entry is a program that affords expedited clearance to low risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. The expedited clearance is done through automated kiosks at select airports. There is a $100 fee for the Global Entry application. Some credit cards, such as American Express Platinum and Citi Prestige cards, reimburse the fee. Having been a member of the program for nearly three years, I am appreciative of the time saved at passport control. I do not know how I managed without it.

I have written posts about the interview (click here and here), but felt the need to provide a list of people who are eligible for the program. Citizens and lawful permanent residents of the United States and citizens of the following countries are eligible for Global Entry membership:

• Citizens of Argentina
• Citizens of India
• Citizens of Colombia
• Citizens of United Kingdom
• Citizens of Germany
• Citizens of Panama
• Citizens of Singapore
• Citizens of South Korea
• Citizens of Switzerland
• Citizens of Taiwan
• Mexican nationals

Depending on the country of citizenship, there may be additional requirements. Those requirements can be found on the International Arrangements page. If there is reason to question your Global Entry application, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides s list of reasons for ineligibility.

• You may not be eligible for participation in the Global Entry program if you:
• Provide false or incomplete information on the application;
• Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges or outstanding warrants (to include driving under the influence);
• Have been found in violation of any customs, immigration or agriculture regulations or laws in any country;
• Are the subject of an ongoing investigation by any federal, state or local law enforcement agency;
• Are inadmissible to the United States under immigration regulation, including applicants with approved waivers of inadmissibility or parole documentation; or
• Cannot satisfy CBP of your low-risk status.

Final Word

Global Entry is a program that every traveler should use. The time saved at customs is well worth the $100 application fee. It is even better when the credit card company reimburses the fee. If you do not have Global Entry, sign up now, you will not regret it.