Have you ever wanted to deal with less paperwork, shorter lines, and reduced waiting times at the airport? If so, then you will be excited to hear about the Global Entry (GE) Program. The Global Entry program was created specifically to help expedite the clearance process for Trusted Travelers arriving in the United States at major airports across the country.
All you have to do to take advantage of your membership in the program is to proceed to a Global Entry lane upon arrival, where a photo will be taken of you to verify your membership in the program. Members will then have instructions sent to their phones through the Global Entry Mobile App, allowing you to validate your arrival before even entering the Federal Inspection Services area.
The process to join the program is simple, and once enrolled, allows you to skip processing lines and gain access to expedited entry, all while requiring no extra paperwork or extra waiting time. To join you must acquire pre-approval from the Global Entry program with all applicants having to undergo a background check and an in-person interview with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials. If you were unable to schedule an appointment at an enrollment center before traveling to the U.S. there is also an option to complete your interview via Enrollment on Arrival once you arrive in the U.S.
Specific procedures for Japanese citizens are as follows:
- Apply online at https://ttp.cbp.dhs.gov/ by creating an application, as well as paying the $100 non-refundable fee. You must also obtain a promotional code which you can get by emailing [email protected] to complete your application.
- After you submit your GE application, you must provide a copy of your original family register to the Japan Immigration Bureau (JIB). The JIB might want to contact applicants during the vetting process, so be prepared just in case.
- After your application has been reviewed, you will receive an email to schedule an interview at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers.
- The interview will determine your eligibility for the GE program, so be prepared for questions. The customs officer will also take a photo of you and a copy of your fingerprints.
- You will need to bring a valid passport and one other form of ID, such as a driver’s license or ID card, to the interview. If you are a Lawful Permanent Resident, you must bring your Green Card to the interview.
Once approved for the GE program, your membership is valid for 5-years and should you wish to extend your membership, simply submit a renewal application before your membership expiration date. The only things you need to receive your Global Entry benefits are a valid passport and visa once you have been successfully granted your membership in the program.
To summarize, if you want to deal with shorter lines, less paperwork, and less waiting at airports, you should consider joining the Global Entry Program. Those who make 4 or more international trips per year can especially benefit from the saved time, effort, and energy that the Global Entry Program offers.