Global Entry is an expedited screening program run by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to breeze through immigration and customs checkpoints when entering the United States. The program saves time and hassle by letting members use automated kiosks rather than standing in regular passport control lines, which can be long.
If you’re already enrolled in Global Entry, you know what a convenience it is — but a Global Entry membership is only valid for five years before it needs to be renewed. Here’s everything you need to know about how to renew Global Entry so you never lose access to those time-saving kiosks at the airport.
What you need to know about the Global Entry renewal process
When to renew Global Entry
You can start the process of renewing Global Entry up to one year before your current Global Entry membership expires — and that’s exactly when you should begin the renewal process since it can take a long time.
Not sure when your membership expires? Your expiration date is printed on your Global Entry card, and it’s also accessible through your account on the Trusted Traveler Programs website. Make a note of your expiration date so you don’t accidentally let your membership expire.
How to renew Global Entry
The renewal process works similarly to the initial application process, though requiring less effort.
First, you’ll need to log into your Trusted Traveler Program account at this website and select the “renew” button under the Global Entry program on your dashboard.
From there, here’s an overview of what you’ll need to do next:
- Update any personal information like address, employment, etc.
- Answer the Global Entry application questions.
- Pay the renewal fee.
- Schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center (if required).
For Global Entry renewals, an in-person interview may not always be mandatory. After you submit your renewal application and pay the fee online, monitor your Trusted Traveler Program account for updates. If U.S. Customs and Border Protection determines another interview is necessary, they will post a notification in your account letting you know. Be prepared to attend an interview appointment if one is requested to finalize the renewal process.
How long does it take for the renewal to process?
The timing for Global Entry renewals can vary. In some cases, the renewal can be completed quickly, within a few days. On the other hand, if any issues are flagged with your application, for example, it may take several months or even up to a year.
Are you eligible for Global Entry?
As we discussed earlier, you may have to participate in an in-person interview when you apply to renew your Global Entry benefits; even if you don’t have to do a second interview, your renewal could still be denied if there is something new in your records that could disqualify you from being eligible for Global Entry.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, travelers could be barred from using Global Entry for any of the following reasons:
- They provided false or incomplete information on their application
- A conviction for a criminal offense
- If there are pending criminal charges against the person, including outstanding warrants
- The applicant has been found in violation of any customs, immigration, or agriculture regulations or laws in any country
- The person is the subject of an ongoing investigation by any federal, state, or local law enforcement agency
- They have been denied when attempting to purchase a firearm
- They have received a criminal pardon from any country
- They cannot be admitted to the U.S. under immigration regulations, including applicants with approved waivers of inadmissibility or parole documentation
- They cannot satisfy CBP of their low-risk status or meet other program requirements
