Do you love to travel, but hate the TSA security lines and the long waits at US Immigration and Customs?
I have a great tip to simplify your life – and it’s called Global Entry.
I recently enrolled myself and was amazed at how easy the process was. Now, whenever I travel by air, I can use the TSA PreCheck lines at security which move so much quicker because you are not required to strip (belts, jewelry and even shoes can stay where they belong!) or remove your laptop and toiletry baggie from your carry-on luggage. There is usually no line at all. I just breeze through!
Then, if I am traveling Internationally, I can bypass the long lines at Passport control when I return to the U.S. and simply scan my passport at a Global Entry kiosk, which also checks my fingerprints and takes a very nice after travel "selfie". (because everyone looks so nice after a long flight LOL). After, a receipt prints and I can simply flash it to an immigration officer as I walk past the lines to claim my luggage and head home.
The application process is very easy and fast. I filled out the online application, paid the $100 fee (good for 5 years and reimbursed by some credit cards) and within 3 days, I received an email telling me I was approved and invited to set up an appointment at the closest participating airport. I did have to wait about 3 weeks for an appointment time at Charlotte-Douglas Airport, but I hear that other airports have shorter waits.
On the day of the appointment, you take your Passport, Driver’s License and approval letter to the Global Entry office and have a 10-minute interview with an agent. She asked me a few questions about my past travels and fingerprinted me and then told me that I was approved. I received my official card in the mail within 5 days.
EASY-PEASY
I have used my new "status" several times now and the perks have been gr
I recently enrolled myself and was amazed at how easy the process was. Now, whenever I travel by air, I can use the TSA PreCheck lines at security which move so much quicker because you are not required to strip (belts, jewelry, and even shoes can stay where they belong!) or remove your laptop and toiletry baggie from your carry-on luggage. There is usually no line at all. I just breeze through!