Answer: Global Entry is really awesome if you travel outside of the United States with any regularity. Forget that. It is really awesome if you travel out of the United States ever.
I recently returned from a conference in Munich Germany. Upon returning to the United States I entered customs through the Chicago airport. Swelling with a little pride I walked past all of the foreigners to the line marked “US Citizens only.” Standing in this shorter, albeit still long, line, I realized there were a few people breezing through, stopping briefly at a kiosk, onto their obviously important lives outside.
If you don’t know about this already, Global Entry is a US Government sponsored program that allows you to renter the United States quickly without waiting in the normal customs lines. It is a relatively easy program to join and costs $100.
How to Apply?
1. Fill out an online application at www.globalentry.gov
2. Pay a non-refundable $100 fee
3. Be interviewed by at one of the Global Entry Enrollment Centers
4. Global Entry will collect your photo, fingerprints, and identification information
After being accepted prepare to walk smugly past all of the people waiting in line at customs.
How can I join Global Entry for Free?
Answer: Glad you asked. There are a few ways to get into the Global Entry program for free. One is to be super important to the US Government. I am not sure how to quantify this or if it is even true. I am just assuming that the US Government would give this to someone if they really wanted to.
The other way is to sign up for an American Express Platinum Card. It is a great card that offers a several great perks including free business class companion tickets, airport lounge access and provides you with Global Entry free of charge.
See the CreditSense Review of the American Express Platinum Card
- 25,000 Membership Rewards(R) points bonus, redeemable for one domestic round-trip Coach-Class airline ticket, when you spend $1,000 during your first three months of Card membership
- New GLOBAL Travel benefits: Priority Pass select airport club access, No Foreign Transaction Fees, Global Entry expedited U.S. immigration pass
- Up to $200 in Airline Fee Credits annually to cover incidental charges on your airline of choice, including checked-baggage fees
- Complimentary Companion Airfare with purchase of qualifying First- or Business-Class international ticket
- 24/7 Platinum Card(R) Concierge service for assistance with reservations, travel, gifts, and more
- FINE HOTELS & RESORTS Program: exclusive upgrades and amenities at over 700 boutique, resort, and luxury hotels worldwide