The last thing anyone wants to do at the end of a long travel day is to wait in yet another long line. Fortunately, the United States Customs and Border Protection has two options that enable U.S. travelers to skip those lines when re-entering the country. Here are the pros and cons of both, and some tips on which one might be best for you.
Global Entry
According to the official website, “Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.” Travelers are background-checked and interviewed upon enrollment in the program, and their membership is good for five years. Detailed eligibility requirements can be found here.
Pros:
- Expedited Clearance: Global Entry allows you to skip the long immigration lines when re-entering the United States. You simply check in at a marked kiosk, follow any given instructions, and then continue on your journey.
- TSA PreCheck Included: With Global Entry, you’re automatically eligible to receive TSA PreCheck benefits. This means you’ll go through shorter security lines for future flights, and you won’t need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets.
- Works in Select Other Countries: Global Entry also includes expedited clearance benefits in Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, Global Entry members can apply for similar programs in other partner countries. You can find more information here under “Partner Expedited Travel Programs.”
Cons:
- Application Process: The application process for Global Entry involves filling out a detailed form, attending an in-person interview, and passing a background check. These steps can take several weeks to complete, so this may not be the best choice for last-minute travelers.
- Cost: Currently the fee for Global Entry membership is $100 for a 5 year period. It’s worth noting that applying for TSA Precheck alone requires an $80 fee. It may be worth the extra $20 for some travelers to enroll in Global Entry and receive the benefits of both programs. Additionally, some credit card companies cover the cost of a Global Entry membership, so it is worth checking!
Learn More/Apply Here: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/global-entry
Mobile Passport Control App
This official U.S. Customs and Border Patrol app allows users to enter their travel document information, customs declaration and photo securely. The app then generates a QR code that the traveler shows along with their travel document at the designated entry point.
Pros:
- Time-Saving Convenience: You can download the Mobile Passport app to your phone and use it with no pre-approval necessary. It may help you skip the line at immigration and expedite your re-entry into the U.S.
- Free Option: The basic version of the Mobile Passport app is free to use
- No In-Person Interview Required: Unlike Global Entry, you don’t need to attend an in-person interview for the Mobile Passport app. You simply input the requested information into the app prior to arriving at immigration.
Cons:
- Limited Benefits: The Mobile Passport app doesn’t offer the same level of benefits as Global Entry. It does not include TSA PreCheck benefits, nor does it offer expedited clearance into other countries.
- Limited Use Locations: The Mobile Passport app is currently available at select U.S. airports and cruise ports. It might not be available at all the locations you travel through. You can check here under “Where can eligible travelers use MBC?” to see availability.
Learn More Here: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/mobile-passport-control
To sum it all up:
Global Entry may be best for you if…
- You’re a frequent international traveler
- You’re a frequent domestic traveler and you don’t already have TSA Pre-Check
Mobile Passport Control may be best for you if…
- You don’t have time to complete the Global Entry requirements prior to your trip
- You’re an infrequent international traveler and you already have TSA Pre-Check benefits.
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