Finally Got Global Entry! Here’s What I Had To Do

I finally got my Global Entry pass! This is something I have wanted to do for while, but I wondered if the process would be pesky and time-consuming. It was actually way easier than I expected! Here’s all I had to do, how much it cost and how long it took. I will also share how I was able to get my Global Entry pass for free! Read on and watch the video to see how it went the day I arrived at my appointment to finalize my Global Entry pass.

**KEEP IN MIND THE PROCESSING BACKGROUND CHECK TIME IS DIFFERENT FOR ALL WHO APPLY. IT’S THE LUCK OF THE DRAW THE AGENT TOLD ME…FOR SOME IT ONLY TAKES TWO WEEKS (MY STORY), BUT  FOR OTHERS IT CAN TAKE A YEAR!**

Bonus – I discovered The Global Entry pass also doubles for TSA PreCheck, so you get two great benefits for the price of one!

Getting My Global Entry: Six Simple Steps 

1. I logged onto the Homeland Security Trusted Traveler Program website. Users must have their own TTP account on this site. I already had one because I established my log-in when I obtained my TSA Precheck pass four years ago. Log on to create your own and proceed from there.
2. I filled out the online application and paid the $120 fee BUT MY AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM CARD REIMBURSED ME! Check to see which credit cards offer this benefit. So great!
3. One week later I received an official email from the TTP site that I have been approved for the next step, which is to set up an appointment at a nearby Homeland Security US Customs and Border Protection office to secure my Global Entry Pass. I followed the TTP email prompt to set up my appointment at my airport’s U.S. Customs and Border Protection office.
4. I arrived at my appointment on my scheduled date. I didn’t even have to take a seat as the customs officer came right out and took me back, even though I was 15 minutes early! Hooray!
5. She fingerprinted me, asked me a few questions and checked my passport for the required ID. She then snapped my photo, handed me my official Global Entry number and explained how the membership works. Woo hoo! I’m official!
6. I will receive my Global Entry photo ID in 2 to 3 weeks, but I can use it now since she gave me my membership number. I remembered to go into my upcoming existing flight reservations to change my TSA Precheck number to my new Global Entry number.

Want to see my experience. Watch this…

So easy! So great! My Global Entry membership expires in five years on my birthday. Members are allowed to start the renewal process one year prior to expiration, so I will be sure to do that in 2029. The $120 fee covers all five years.

I can’t wait to try out my new Global Entry pass when I travel to France next month! I’ll let you know how it goes!

Here’s the link again to apply for both TSA Precheck and/or Global Entry. Travel on!