When it comes to travel, the more I can do to make the process as seamless and stress free as possible, the better. As a frequent flier, often times I would get Pre-Check with my booking with the airline. Not sure how or why, but it sure was a great unexpected perk.
Since getting Pre wasn’t always a guarantee, I decided to look into the program and officially enroll. While researching the program however, I learned about the many benefits of Global Entry. Global Entry would still give me Pre-Check benefits for my domestic travels, but for $15 more, I could also get expedited clearance when returning back to the US from international travel. So began the process…
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
The first step in the process of applying for Global Entry was the online application. I can’t remember how long it took exactly, but I would say about an hour. The application is incredibly detailed, so I spent some time reading and re-reading the questions to ensure the answers were accurate.
Once the application was all filled out, I paid my non-refundable $100 fee for the program for 5 years, and waited to hear if I would be moving on to the interview.
I filled out my application on Sunday night, and by Monday afternoon I received an email stating that I could now schedule my in person interview. Getting an interview can make the application process months long, especially as the program increases in popularity. The interview location closest to my office had an opening in 3 months, with other locations around the city showing much longer. The airport however had one in two weeks.
THE INTERVIEW
Two weeks flew by and before I knew it, I was at the airport at 7am for my appointment. I signed in and within five minutes was called to sit with the CBP agent that would be interviewing me. (They are very efficient.) A few questions later and verification of my credentials, I had my picture taken and received my new Global Entry card with instructions on how to use it. I also received my Known Traveler Number for my airline bookings so I would receive my Pre-Check. In less than 15 minutes I was officially enrolled!
USING GLOBAL ENTRY FOR THE FIRST TIME
Despite the fact that we were on our way to sail on the world’s largest ship at sea, I was beyond excited to use my Global Entry on the way home. Departing for Spain with Pre-Check, I was settled in at the gate from curbside in less than 15 minutes. (Which is saying a lot given security for International is usually a monster of a wait time.)
Arriving back to the US, I made my way over to the Global Entry kiosks where there was no line. This was it! I would see if my investment was worth it. I walked up to the kiosk and inserted my passport, only to realize the machine was broken. As was the next one…and the one next to it. Once I finally found a working machine, I was cleared in seconds. After having the Customs agent verify my passport, I was on my way to baggage claim. Total time with broken machines: less than 5 minutes.
OVERALL
I couldn’t recommend this program more. If you are thinking about Global Entry ,the time you save, plus the added benefit of Pre-Check absolutely makes it worth the $100 every 5 years. (And depending on the credit card you have, you can get it for free”!) And if you are solely thinking about Pre-Check because you don’t do that much international travel, still get Global Entry. It’s worth the extra $15 for whenever those trips may pop up.
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