Global Entry is a program run by the US Customs and Border Protection agency that is designed to help travelers save time going through customs. With Global Entry, eligible travelers are allowed to use automated kiosks instead of waiting in long lines for manual processing. In this blog post, we'll explore how Global Entry works and why it can be a time-saving solution for international travelers.

To begin with, Global Entry is a trusted traveler program that is available to US citizens, permanent residents, and certain other nationalities. To apply for Global Entry, travelers must undergo a background check, an interview, and pay a fee of $100. Once approved, travelers are issued a Global Entry ID card that they can use to enter the US.

One of the primary benefits of Global Entry is the ability to use automated kiosks at participating airports. These kiosks are equipped with technology that can read a traveler's passport, scan their fingerprints, and take their photo. By using these kiosks, eligible travelers can bypass the long lines that often form at customs checkpoints and save a significant amount of time.

Another benefit of Global Entry is that it also includes TSA PreCheck, which allows travelers to use dedicated security lanes at participating airports. This can further reduce the time it takes to clear security and get to your gate.

So why is Global Entry such a time-saving solution for international travelers? First and foremost, it eliminates the need to wait in long lines at customs checkpoints. This can be a major time-saver, especially during peak travel periods when lines can be hours long. With Global Entry, travelers can typically clear customs in just a few minutes, allowing them to quickly move on to their final destination.

Another benefit of Global Entry is that it allows travelers to skip many of the traditional customs procedures. For example, instead of filling out customs forms by hand, travelers can simply use the automated kiosks to enter their information. This can save a significant amount of time, especially if you are traveling with a group or have a lot of baggage to carry.

Overall, Global Entry is a great option for frequent international travelers who want to save time and reduce the hassle of going through customs. While the initial application process may take some time and require a fee, the time and stress it can save you in the long run are well worth it. So if you're a frequent traveler looking for a way to streamline your customs experience, consider applying for Global Entry and see how much time it can save you.