Unlocking Speed and Simplicity: How Global Entry is Revolutionizing International Travel?

For international travelers weary from long flights and even longer lines at passport control, the Global Entry program has long been a beacon of relief. Managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Global Entry offers pre-approved, low-risk travelers a fast-track through the traditional customs process. But now, with a fresh wave of innovation and technology, the program is getting even faster – and smarter. 

What Is Global Entry?

Global Entry is a Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved passengers arriving in the United States. For years, members have enjoyed the convenience of bypassing crowded passport control lines in favor of dedicated kiosks. A swift biometric scan – typically a facial recognition match – verifies identity in seconds. After that, a brief check with a CBP officer clears the traveler for entry. 

Not only does the program dramatically cut down wait times, but it also includes complimentary access to TSA PreCheck – streamlining the departure process with faster security screening. 

Enter Seamless Border Entry: A Major Upgrade 

Now, CBP is trialing a groundbreaking enhancement to Global Entry called Seamless Border Entry (SBE). At select major airports, new “on-the-move” camera systems are eliminating even the brief stop at kiosks. Instead, travelers are identified mid-stride through cutting-edge “auto-capture” facial recognition cameras placed next to CBP officers. 

This means no more pausing for a kiosk interaction – not even a need to touch a screen or scan a passport. In practice, this upgraded process transforms arrival into a near-continuous flow, rivaling the efficiency of domestic boarding gates. 

Real-World Experience: Faster Than Ever 

Frequent flyers who’ve tested the new SBE system have reported a noticeably faster experience than traditional Global Entry – even during low-traffic times. One traveler at Miami International Airport (MIA) described walking straight past the kiosks and being verified mid-stride by a mounted camera. The system scanned and cleared their identity in seconds, allowing them to move directly to baggage claim without breaking pace. 

This streamlined process is currently operational at several major international hubs, including: 

• Miami International Airport (MIA) 

• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) 

• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) 

• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) 

• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) 

• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) 

• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) 

Additionally, SBE is rolling out at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), one of the world’s busiest travel centers. 

Why This Matters for Travelers 

The difference between a tedious reentry and a frictionless arrival can mean everything – especially after a red-eye international flight or tight connection. Global Entry, particularly in its upgraded form with SBE, offers a level of efficiency that’s invaluable for both business and leisure travelers. 

And the benefits go beyond time-saving. Global Entry represents a major leap toward a more touchless and hygienic airport experience. In a post-pandemic world where travelers are more mindful of contact points, this streamlined process offers peace of mind alongside convenience. 

Cost, Application, and Perks 

Joining Global Entry requires a one-time application and in-person interview process, designed to vet travelers for low-risk status. Once approved, membership is valid for five years and costs $120 – a figure many travelers recoup several times over in saved hours and reduced stress. 

Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets is that many premium travel credit cards (like those from American Express, Chase, or Capital One) offer full reimbursement for the application fee. This makes joining the program even more accessible for frequent travelers. 

Alongside fast international entry, members also enjoy TSA PreCheck – meaning shorter lines, no need to remove shoes or laptops, and a quicker journey through domestic airport security. 

Not a Member? There’s Progress for You Too 

Even for those who aren’t enrolled in Global Entry or any Trusted Traveler Program, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is rolling out biometric verification options at certain airports. This means occasional international travelers can still benefit from faster identity checks, though not quite at the speed or convenience of Global Entry’s dedicated lanes and SBE enhancements. 

The Future of Global Travel 

The SBE rollout is just one chapter in a larger movement toward biometric-based travel infrastructure. Airports around the world are adopting facial recognition, iris scanning, and other biometric tools to streamline security, boarding, and customs processes. The goal? A fully connected and contactless journey from check-in to arrival gate. 

CBP’s upgrades reflect this broader trend – where speed, safety, and technology converge to enhance the traveler experience. As these innovations evolve, the Global Entry program is poised to remain at the forefront of modern border control solutions. 

Is Global Entry Right for You? 

If you fly internationally more than once a year, Global Entry is likely worth your consideration. The time saved in customs and airport security – often during your most exhausted travel moments – adds up quickly. And with expanding technology like SBE enhancing the experience further, it’s becoming the gold standard for hassle-free international reentry. 

Add to that the TSA PreCheck perks, widespread availability at major U.S. airports, and potential credit card reimbursements, and the value proposition becomes clear. 

Final Thoughts 

International travel doesn’t have to be a grind. With Global Entry – now supercharged with seamless biometric enhancements – reentering the U.S. becomes faster, easier, and far more efficient than ever before. 

As airports evolve and the pace of travel picks up, tools like Global Entry will be essential for those who want to spend less time in lines and more time enjoying the journey. 

✅ Ready to Speed Through U.S. Customs?
Long international flights shouldn’t end with long lines. With the right airport shortcut, your team can get through passport control in seconds – not hours. TL365 advisors help companies choose the best tools like Global Entry, PreCheck, or CLEAR, tailored to each traveler’s needs. 
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Global Entry vs PreCheck vs CLEAR: Airport Shortcuts Demystified 
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