Global Entry Now Free for Kids: How to Make Your Family Travels Easier
Traveling with kids can be a whirlwind, especially when navigating busy airports and customs lines. Thankfully, Global Entry, a trusted traveler program that provides expedited customs and immigration processing, is now free for children under 18. This change, effective October 15th, 2024, makes family travel smoother and more affordable than ever. Here’s everything you need to know about adding your kids to your Global Entry account.
What is Global Entry?
Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program designed to expedite re-entry into the United States for pre-approved travelers. With Global Entry, you and your family can skip long customs lines and breeze through immigration after international trips. Where it comes in most handy for us, it includes TSA PreCheck for domestic travel, so its essentially a two-fer!
The Cost Change: What’s New?
While the application fee for adults recently increased from $100 to $120, children under 18 can now be added to your Global Entry account for free! This is a game-changer for families, as it eliminates extra costs while ensuring your entire family enjoys the same expedited travel benefits.
How to Apply for Your Kids
Even though it’s free, each child must have their own Global Entry application. Follow these steps to apply:
Create an Email Address: Each applicant needs their own email address to register.
Submit an Application: Complete a Global Entry application for your child on the Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) website. Include basic identification details and passport information. You connect them to your Global Entry account here and when you check out it will be a $0 payment.
Receive a PASS ID: Once submitted, you’ll receive a “Pending” PASS ID for your child.
Schedule an Interview: A brief 3-5 minute in-person interview is required to finalize the application.
Pro Tip: Walk-Up Interviews at Airports
If your child’s Global Entry application is still pending upon returning from an international trip, you may be able to complete their interview at a walk-up counter. At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), for example, there is a walk-up Global Entry interview station located near the baggage claim area in the international terminal. This option is quick and convenient, with no appointment or wait times required. We did this after our most recent trip to Australia and it was easy breezy and took less than 10 minutes.
Why Global Entry is a Must-Have for Families
TSA PreCheck Included: Skip long security lines and keep your shoes on at TSA checkpoints.
Streamlined Re-Entry: Use dedicated kiosks to bypass long customs lines.
Peace of Mind: Traveling with kids is stressful enough—Global Entry ensures a smoother journey from start to finish.
Cost Savings: With free applications for kids, families can save hundreds of dollars while enjoying premium travel perks.
JUST DO IT!
The recent fee waiver for children makes Global Entry a no-brainer for families who travel often. Take advantage of this program to save time, reduce stress, and enhance your overall travel experience. It takes no time at all, and for the peace of mind it’s so worth it to ensure your next family trip is as seamless as possible.