Register Your Kids for Free Global Entry Now

If you’re a frequent traveler, signing up your kids for Global Entry is a smart move that can streamline your family’s travel experience. Thanks to recent changes, children can now enjoy free Global Entry when applying alongside a parent or guardian who is already a member. This perk comes with a few simple steps, ensuring your little ones can take advantage of expedited customs and enjoy a smoother airport journey. Here’s a breakdown of how you can easily register your kids for this valuable program.

What Is Global Entry for Kids?

Global Entry isn’t just for adults—kids can also enjoy the benefits of faster customs clearance when traveling internationally. The Global Entry program provides travelers, including minors, with expedited entry back into the United States, significantly cutting down on waiting time. The good news for parents is that kids can be enrolled for free if their parents or guardians are already members or applying at the same time.

Here’s a quick summary of what’s required for kids to join:

• Each child needs their own Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) account.
• An individual application must be submitted for each child.
• A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to their interview at an Enrollment Center.
• Children under 18 need parental consent for the application.

Eligibility Requirements for Kids

Children of any age can apply for Global Entry, but there are specific eligibility rules you must follow:

1. Parental Consent: If your child is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must provide consent during the application process.
2. Individual Application: Each child must have their own Global Online Enrollment System account. You can’t use your own account to apply on their behalf.
3. Free Application: While there’s typically a $120 application fee, this fee is waived if your child applies alongside a parent or guardian who is already a member of Global Entry.
4. In-Person Interview: After submitting the application, an in-person interview is required at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. As the parent or guardian, you must accompany your child to the interview.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering Your Child for Global Entry

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth registration process for your child:

1. Create an Account for Your Child
   Each child needs their own account in the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES). If you don’t already have an account for them, start by creating one with their information.
2. Complete the Application
   Once the account is created, fill out the application for Global Entry. You’ll need to provide detailed personal information for your child, including their travel history and other details.
3. Pay the Application Fee (or Not)
   If you’re already a Global Entry member or applying at the same time, your child’s application fee will be waived. Otherwise, there’s a $120 non-refundable fee.
4. Wait for Conditional Approval
   After submitting the application, it will go through a background check. This process usually takes about two weeks. Once conditionally approved, you’ll receive a notification to schedule an interview.
5. Schedule the Interview
   Your child must attend an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. As their guardian, you’ll need to be present during the interview.
6. Prepare for the Interview
   Gather all the necessary documents for the interview, including:

• Your child’s valid passport
• Proof of address (if applicable)
• Any secondary identification required

The interview is generally quick—under 15 minutes—and child-friendly, involving a brief check of documents and possibly taking fingerprints, depending on the child’s age.

Preparing for the Global Entry Interview

The interview process for Global Entry is usually straightforward, but it’s important to be well-prepared. Here are a few tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:

• Schedule in Advance: Interviews at Enrollment Centers can fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to book early.
• Accompany Your Child: As the parent or guardian, you must attend the interview with your child.
• Bring the Right Documents: A valid passport, proof of residency, and any additional identification your child may need are essential. Missing documents can delay the approval process.
• Explain the Process to Your Child: Make sure your child knows what to expect during the interview. It’s typically brief, but they may have their photo taken and fingerprints scanned.
• Consider Enrollment on Arrival: If your child is conditionally approved, you may be able to complete the interview upon arrival from an international trip, saving time and making the process more convenient.

Benefits of Global Entry for Families

Why go through the effort of signing your kids up for Global Entry? The benefits are numerous, especially for families who travel frequently:

• Expedited Customs Screening: Skip the long lines at customs when returning from international trips.
• TSA PreCheck: Along with Global Entry, your child will also gain access to TSA PreCheck, which means faster security screening on domestic flights. No more removing shoes or laptops.
• Stress-Free Travel: Less waiting means happier, less stressed kids, which leads to a more pleasant travel experience for the whole family.

Renewing Your Child’s Global Entry Membership

Global Entry memberships for children last five years, after which you’ll need to renew. It’s best to begin the renewal process a year before the membership expires. Here’s what you need to know:

• Renew Online: Log into your child’s Global Online Enrollment System account to start the renewal process.
• Document Review: You’ll need to submit updated documents, like a valid passport.
• Interview Requirement: While some adults can renew without an interview, children typically must attend another in-person interview.

By staying on top of renewal dates, you can ensure your kids continue to enjoy the benefits of Global Entry without interruption.

Final Thoughts

Registering your kids for free Global Entry is a valuable step in making family travel more efficient and enjoyable. With the application fee waived for minors and a streamlined interview process, it’s easier than ever to enroll your children. From faster customs clearance to smoother security checks, Global Entry helps families focus on making memories, not waiting in lines. Take the time now to register your kids, and you’ll be setting them up for a lifetime of hassle-free travel