What is Global Entry?
A US Customs and Border Protection program that speeds up immigration and customs when returning to the US. It includes TSA PreCheck.
Global Entry, explained
Global Entry is for travelers who come back to the US often. After an application, a background check and an interview, approved members skip the regular passport control line on arrival and are processed at a kiosk or by face recognition.
Membership includes TSA PreCheck for security on departure, and the Known Traveler Number goes into each booking the same way.
After a long flight home, it can save a long wait at a busy arrival hall.
Applications are made through the Trusted Traveler Programs site of US Customs and Border Protection.
On a business class trip
Landing in New York after a night flight from Europe, a Global Entry member skips the regular passport control line and heads home.
Related terms
- TSA PreCheck
A US program for faster airport security: approved travelers keep their shoes, belt and light jacket on and leave laptops and liquids in the bag.
- Fast track security
A separate, shorter security lane for premium passengers at many airports outside the US. In the US, TSA PreCheck is the usual faster lane.
- Red-eye flight
A flight that leaves late in the evening and lands early the next morning, so most of it is flown at night.
Questions about a fare? Ask an agent
An agent explains the rules of every fare before you pay, by phone, email or WhatsApp, 24/7.
