Tips for Securing Your Global Entry Interview Appointment

If you’ve received conditional approval for Global Entry but are struggling to schedule your interview due to limited availability at your local enrollment center, you’re not alone. Many applicants face long wait times for appointments. However, there are strategies you can employ to increase your chances of securing an interview slot.

Every first Monday of the month at 9 a.m. local time, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) release new interview appointment slots for Global Entry at enrollment centers across the country. These slots become available through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) dashboard, so it’s essential to mark your calendar for these dates. For instance, the next appointment release will be on September 1.

In addition to the traditional interview process, conditionally approved applicants have the option to complete their interview upon returning to the United States through the Enrollment on Arrival (EOA) service. This convenient option allows you to finish the enrollment process at one of 16 international or 52 U.S. airport locations, effectively integrating your Global Entry interview into your travel itinerary.

Upon arrival in the U.S. after an international trip, proceed to the passport control area. Look for signs indicating the “Enrollment on Arrival” lanes. If you cannot find these signs, don’t hesitate to ask a CBP agent for assistance. During your admissibility inspection, an agent will conduct your interview. Be sure to verify that the EOA service is available during your arrival time, as it operates within specific hours.

Another option available for conditionally approved applicants is Enrollment on Departure (EOD), which allows you to complete your interview before departing for a domestic or international flight at select airports. Currently, EOD services are available at Dulles International Airport (IAD) in Washington, D.C., and Miami International Airport (MIA). At Dulles, EOD is accessible daily from noon to 8 p.m. Meanwhile, at Miami, the service operates Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

When utilizing either EOA or EOD, make sure to bring a valid passport and a document that proves your residency, such as a driver’s license with your current address, a mortgage statement, a rental payment statement, or a utility bill. If applicable, also bring your permanent resident card.

It’s worth noting that many applicants cancel their scheduled interviews, especially on the day of the appointment. Therefore, if you miss the first Monday appointment release, make it a habit to regularly check the online scheduling tool for last-minute openings due to cancellations.

If you’re pressed for time and can’t frequently check for available appointments, consider using a third-party alert service like Appointment Scanner or Global Entry Spotter. Appointment Scanner offers a one-month subscription for $29, which provides alerts (up to 25 per day) based on last-minute cancellations and newly released appointments at up to three enrollment centers of your choice. You can receive notifications via text or email, and the service does not auto-renew, requiring a new purchase if you wish to continue.

Global Entry Spotter charges a one-time fee of $25 for unlimited SMS alerts regarding available appointments at up to three locations. While many travelers find appointments within days of signing up, there is no guaranteed timeframe. You’ll receive text alerts until you secure an appointment and opt out.

Keep in mind that these services only notify you of appointment availability; they do not book the appointments for you. So, when you receive an alert, be prepared to act quickly to secure your slot.

The monthly appointment release on the first Monday is a valuable opportunity for those who have applied for Global Entry to expedite their enrollment, especially at centers with limited availability. However, these slots can fill up rapidly, so it’s crucial to be proactive.

If you haven’t applied for Global Entry yet, consider using a credit card that covers the $120 nonrefundable application fee. This can also be a great way to leverage your credit card rewards for travel-related expenses.

As a reminder, new appointment slots are released on the first Monday of each month, including September 1. Staying informed and using available resources can significantly enhance your chances of securing a Global Entry interview, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.