Global Entry is Now Free for Kids

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She has started to go out of her comfort zone while traveling- most recently exploring caves and boogie boarding on a FlowRider.

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

While the Global Entry application fee has risen to $120 for adults, it has been eliminated for children under 18. Before October 1 of this year, the fee was $100 for anyone applying, regardless of age. So, while there has been a 20% increase for adults, anyone under 18 can apply for Global Entry for free—as long as their parent or guardian is also applying or is already a member. In the past, if your kids did not have Global Entry, they would have to go through the long customs line even if you had it. Now, it is much easier to get your kids Global Entry.

What is Global Entry?

Airport Terminal Global Entry Sign Immigration Visa Office — Joshua | Adobe Stock

Global Entry is a program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to receive expedited service upon arrival in the United States by airplane. This allows you to skip the long lines at customs. With Global Entry, you are automatically enrolled in TSA Pre-check, which gives you faster times in the security line.

How Do I Apply for Global Entry for My Kids?

Applying for Global Entry is relatively easy for passport holders. Here are the steps you need to take:

Head to the US Customs and Border Protection website and create a Trusted Travelers Program (TTP) account for Global Entry. Each person applying will need their own account. If you don’t have Global Entry, you will need to create an account for yourself, as well as for each child that will be applying.
Once you’ve created the account(s), you can complete the Global Entry application and, if you are also applying, pay your $120 fee. When applying for those under 18, there is a section to fill out with your information so the fee can be waived (as long as you are applying or are already a Global Entry member).
Once you are pre-approved, you must schedule an interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. If you are planning an international trip, some airports offer interviews upon arrival in the United States. If approved at the interview, you will automatically be enrolled and can start using your Global Entry status immediately. Minors also have to complete an interview.

You Might Also Like:

• Your Questions About Online Passport Renewal, Answered
• This European Destination Will Pay You $16K to Move There
• How Your Trip May Be Impacted By the Hotel Worker Strike
• It Happened to Me: What You Need to Know if There’s a Cyberattack at the Airport
• The World’s Most Powerful Passports 2024

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.