Taking kids on trips can be fun and hard at the same time. Signing up for Global Entry can help your family trips go more smoothly. With this tool, you can save time and stress at the airport. But what about kids who want to use Global Entry? Let’s talk about everything you need to know about this kids’ show.
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What is Global Entry?
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the United States runs the Global Entry service. Low-risk visitors who have already been approved can enter the US faster. Members don’t have to wait in long lines to use special kiosks at airports. This makes it a lot easier to get back from trips abroad.
Global Entry For Kids: Is it Worth It?
A lot of parents ask, “Do kids need Global Entry?” The answer depends on how often your family travels. Global Entry for Kids can be a game-changer if you move abroad a lot. Not having to wait in long lines at customs can be very helpful if you are flying with kids who are tired or cranky.
Age Requirements: Global Entry Kids Under 18
Children of all ages, even babies, can use Global Entry. But for kids under 18 who want to use Global Entry, the process is a little different. For kids, they can’t apply on their own. For them to apply, a parent or legal guardian must do so and be present at the interview.
Benefits of Global Entry For Kids
1. You can get back into the U.S. faster because the Global Entry machines can be used by everyone in your family.
2. TSA PreCheck is included: People who have Global Entry also have TSA PreCheck, which lets them go through security lines faster for domestic planes.
3. Less stress: Parents and kids both feel less stressed when they don’t have to wait as long.
4. A chance to teach: It’s a chance to talk to kids about how to be a good person and travel responsibly.
How to Apply for Global Entry For Kids?
1. Make an account. For each child, parents must make a Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) account.
2. Fill out the application: For each kid, fill out the online application.
3. Pay the fee. Everyone who applies, even kids, has to pay $100.
4. Wait for conditional permission. If it comes through, you’ll be asked to set up an interview.
5. Go to the interview. The child and a parent or guardian must both go.
What to Bring to Global Entry Interview for Minors
Get ready for the interview when it comes around. Bring the following to your interview for Global Entry if you are under 18:
1. A legal passport for the child
2. Proof of where you live, like a birth certificate
3. Another kind of ID, like a school ID
4. A printed letter of conditional approval
5. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring proof that you are allowed to be there.
For kids, the interview process is usually quick and easy. The police officer will take the child’s picture and fingerprints and ask a few questions.
Global Entry Changes for Kids: Recent Updates
The CBP sometimes changes Global Entry for both adults and children. Here are some new things:
Renewing online: Many members can now reapply online without having to go through an interview.
2. Membership lasts longer: Global Entry is now good for 5 years instead of 4.
3. More places: There are now more airports and enrollment sites with Global Entry kiosks.
Every time there is a change to the Global Entry program for children, the official CBP website is the best place to find out about it.
Tips for Using Global Entry with Kids
1. Get used to the kiosk: Before you go on vacation, show your kids how to use the Global Entry machine.
2. Keep documents close by: Make sure all the documents you need are easy to get to.
3. Stay together: People in the same family should go through the Global Entry process together.
4. Teach kids responsibility by reminding them how important it is to follow the rules and tell the truth to border agents.
Common Questions About Global Entry For Kids
1. Can babies get Global Entry?
Yes, even babies can sign up for Global Entry. They will need to join on their own, not with their parents.
2. Do both parents need to be present for a child’s interview?
The child’s interview only needs one parent or legal guardian to be there.
3. What if my child’s appearance changes?
If your child’s look changes a lot, like getting a big haircut, you may need to go to a Global Entry Enrollment Center and update their picture.
4. Can children use Global Entry if traveling with a non-member adult?
No, everyone in the group needs to have Global Entry to use the machines at the same time.
5. What happens if my child misbehaves during the interview?
The person questioning you knows that kids can be nervous. But it’s important for kids to be able to follow simple directions and act in a good way.
Alternatives to Global Entry For Kids
If Global Entry doesn’t seem like the right option for your family, here are some other options:
1. Mobile Passport Control: There is a free app called Mobile Passport Control that can help you get through some U.S. airports faster.
2. NEXUS: To move between the US and Canada more often.
3. SENTRI: For frequent travel by road from Mexico to the U.S.
Is Global Entry For Kids Right for Your Family?
There are a few things that affect your decision about whether to get Global Entry for your kids:
1. How often do you go on trips abroad?
2. Remember that there is a $100 fee per person.
3. Your home airport: Does it have Global Entry kiosks?
4. How old your kids are and how well they can follow directions
Many families who move abroad a lot find that Global Entry for Kids is well worth the money. During its 5-year term, it can save hours of waiting time, which can make family trips less stressful and more fun.
Keep in mind that Global Entry is not a right but a luxury. If you want to keep your membership, you need to follow all the rules. This means keeping your information up to date if something changes, like when you get a new passport.
Conclusion
Traveling with kids can be an amazing experience, full of learning and adventure. Global Entry For Kids can help make these journeys smoother, allowing you to focus on creating wonderful memories with your family.
Ready to start your Global Entry journey? Begin by creating a Trusted Traveler Programs account for each family member. And don’t forget to prepare your kids for the process – it can be an exciting part of getting ready for your next big adventure! Want to learn more about making family travel easier and more enjoyable? Visit Momvila for more tips, tricks, and information on Global Entry for kids and other family travel topics. Let Momvila be your guide to stress-free family adventures!
