The process to renew Global Entry with a remote interview membership is easier than ever.
Renewing our Global Entry memberships was a very different experience from when we first applied. Here are some of the main differences:
First-time Global Entry applicant vs. membership renewal
- When we first applied for Global Entry, we paid the $100 fee out of pocket. To renew, I paid my fee with my United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card, and got the fee credited back. Many travel credit cards will refund the fee as a statement credit. Check your benefits list before paying for your application: you could be getting your application or renewal for free.
- We were unable to find an interview in our state, so we drove five hours to Seattle to interview at SeaTac. To renew, we scheduled remote interviews via Zoom, and completed our interviews from our apartment.
Remote interviews are only available to select travelers, as remote interviewing for renewals is still being piloted.
3. The first interview you do when you apply for Global Entry is much more exhaustive and includes reviewing your travel history with a CBP officer. For our renewal, our interviews mainly involved confirming information and reviewing the responsibilities of members of the Trusted Traveler Program.
Scheduling a remote interview for Global Entry
When you’re up for renewing your Global Entry membership, log into the TTP website to pay your fee and schedule an interview. Choose from the available dates and times in the calendar and confirm. When you get an interview confirmation, the Zoom link to access your remote interview will be available on the same portal.
When you’re trying to schedule a remote interview, it may seem like there is nothing available for YEARS ahead. If this is the case, don’t panic. Check back each day until you find a slot that works. We each checked once a day for a few days and found interview times within a few weeks of booking.
Preparing for your remote Global Entry interview
Here are some things to keep in mind and get ready before interview time:
- Make sure Zoom is installed and up to date in the device you’re using to connect. This is, after all, an interview with a government official, so you want to make sure you show up on time and have everything you need.
- Check the audio and microphone on your device. Zoom will provide prompts for you to test your microphone volume and make sure your speakers are working correctly.
- As part of your renewal interview, you need to provide documentation to the CBP officer: your passport, your permanent resident card (if applicable), and one document that proves your residence, like your driver’s license. Have those close by before the interview starts.
After you complete your Global Entry remote interview
If your renewal is approved, the CBP officer who interviews you will remind you how to use the Global Entry kiosks when you enter the US, to use your US passport every time you enter if you are a dual citizen, and that your card will be sent in the mail.
Is Global Entry worth it?
If you travel internationally, yes. We haven’t made a line for US immigration or filled out a paper-based customs form in years. Having Global Entry makes immigration and customs much smoother; just make sure you complete the form fully and truthfully. And if this isn’t enough, Global Entry also gives you TSA Pre, which gives you access to expedited security lines. Add to that of getting your fee waived by your credit card company and Global Entry is a wonderful deal for international travelers.