What to Expect During Your Global Entry Interview

Before You Go: What to Bring

Required documents:

• Valid passport (the one you used in your application)
• Secondary ID (driver's license, state ID, or military ID)
• Conditional approval letter (digital copy on your phone is fine)

Additional documents (if applicable):

• Marriage certificate (if your name changed)
• Divorce decree (if your name changed)
• Court documents (if you disclosed any legal issues)
• Immigration documents (if you're not a US citizen)

The Interview Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Check-in
Arrive 15 minutes early. You'll check in with security and be directed to the Global Entry office.

Step 2: Document Review
The officer will verify your identity and review your application. They'll check your passport and secondary ID.

Step 3: Fingerprinting
You'll provide fingerprints on a digital scanner. This usually takes 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Photo
A quick digital photo for your Global Entry card.

Step 5: Questions
The officer may ask questions about your application, travel history, or background.

Common Interview Questions

Travel-related questions:

• "Why do you want Global Entry?"
• "How often do you travel internationally?"
• "What countries do you visit most frequently?"
• "Do you travel for business or pleasure?"

Background questions:

• "Have you ever been denied entry to any country?"
• "Have you ever had any issues with customs or immigration?"
• "Is there anything in your background we should know about?"

Pro tip: Be honest and direct. If you disclosed something in your application, be prepared to discuss it briefly.

How Long Does It Take?

Typical interview length: 10-15 minutes

Shortest interviews: 5 minutes (if everything is straightforward)

Longer interviews: 20-30 minutes (if there are questions about your background or travel history)

Most people are approved on the spot and receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) immediately.

What Happens After Approval?

Immediate benefits:

• You'll receive your KTN right away
• TSA PreCheck benefits activate immediately
• Global Entry kiosk access starts immediately

Your Global Entry card: Arrives by mail in 7-10 business days (but you don't need it to use the program)

Red Flags That Could Cause Issues

Be prepared to explain:

• Any arrests or legal issues (even if charges were dropped)
• Immigration violations or overstays
• Customs violations or agricultural violations
• Frequent travel to high-risk countries
• Inconsistencies in your application

Remember: Being honest is always better than trying to hide something. Most issues can be explained and won't disqualify you.

Tips for Interview Success

• Arrive early but not too early (15 minutes is perfect)
• Dress professionally (business casual is fine)
• Be polite and respectful to all staff
• Answer questions directly without volunteering extra information
• Stay calm if asked about something unexpected
• Bring originals of any documents you referenced in your application