What to bring to a Global Entry interview
Quick insights
- A copy of your conditional approval letter, a valid passport or permanent resident card and documents providing evidence of residency are usually required for Global Entry interviews.
- Some examples of proof of residency include a driver’s license (if the address is current), mortgage statement and utility bill.
- Global Entry in-person interviews generally take under 15 minutes.
Global Entry benefits can help streamline travel, particularly upon entry into the U.S. Membership can allow individuals to skip important but time-consuming aspects of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) screenings, such as the official paperwork and face-to-face review.
The interview is a required step of Global Entry enrollment, in part because identification documents are verified at this stage. Let's review what specific documents you'll need to bring.
What documents are needed for a Global Entry interview?
You will need to bring the following for a Global Entry interview:
- A copy of your conditional approval letter
- A valid passport or permanent resident card
- Documents providing evidence of residency (for example, an up-to-date driver’s license or a rental payment statement)
Proof of residency is not required for minors who are conditionally approved for Global Entry.
In some cases, you may be asked ahead of time to bring additional documents, such as court disposition papers for any prior arrests or convictions. Your conditional approval notice should list any supporting documents required at your interview.
Global Entry Enrollment on Arrival
The Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) program allows Global Entry applicants to complete an interview as they arrive in the U.S. A conditional approval is still required, but EoA interviews don't have to be scheduled in advance.
EoA is available at select international terminals. When you land, follow signs that point toward CBP officers who can complete your interview as well as the standard inspection.
Here are a few things to remember when you leave for a trip and plan to have an EoA interview when you arrive back home:
- Print a copy of your conditional approval in advance.
- If you have multiple passports, bring them all.
- If you’re a permanent resident, your physical, machine-readable card will suffice instead of a passport.
- Bring hard copies of any proof of residency documents.
Why are Global Entry documents important?
The documents required for Global Entry are important because they verify an applicant's identity. Global Entry is called a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) for a reason: Members have their identities and backgrounds vetted carefully by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
If it's your first time applying, you'll need to bring the required documents to your interview. Failure to provide documentation at this time will cancel your application.
Do I need to dress up for a Global Entry interview?
There is not a dress code for Global Entry interviews. You will have already been conditionally approved at this time. The primary purpose is to verify your identity and documentation. You'll probably be asked several questions, but it's not like a job interview. Just remember to bring the required documents.
How long does a Global Entry interview take?
Global Entry interviews are usually under 15 minutes and consist of asking the applicant several questions. At the time of your interview, your application will have been conditionally approved. Your documentation and identity will be verified in person at this point, so the DHS can continue processing your application.
Do I need to interview again when I renew Global Entry membership?
Global Entry status is valid for five years. To extend your status after that point, you’d need to complete a new application. It’s possible that you’ll be granted approval without an interview if you have interviewed in the past, but this is not guaranteed.
In summary
A copy of your conditional approval, a valid passport (or permanent resident card) and documents that provide evidence of your residency are required for Global Entry interviews. Generally, Global Entry interviews last under 15 minutes and can be scheduled in advance at an enrollment center or completed upon arriving back in the U.S. in certain locations.
Thinking about applying for Global Entry status? Some credit cards offer reimbursement for Global Entry application fees.
