Global Entry Reopens After Homeland Security Shutdown

Relief came to millions of international travelers Wednesday morning when the Department of Homeland Security reactivated its Global Entry program at 5 a.m. Eastern Time. The program, which had been suspended during a funding lapse, helps pre-approved travelers skip long customs and immigration lines when entering the United States.

The shutdown had forced Customs and Border Protection agents to pause the expedited screening program and redirect staff to help process the surge of regular travelers. With spring break in full swing, airports were facing massive security lines and wait times stretching up to 3.5 hours at major hubs.

Global Entry serves as a lifeline for frequent international travelers who pay $120 for five-year memberships. The program screens applicants in advance, identifying low-risk travelers who can then use automated kiosks instead of waiting in standard customs lines.

The timing of the restart couldn't be better for travelers. Airlines for America projects that 171 million people will fly between March 1 and April 30, a 4% jump from last year. That works out to about 2.8 million passengers daily during the busy spring travel period.

The Bright Side

While staffing challenges continue at airports nationwide, the return of Global Entry shows officials are finding ways to restore services that make travel smoother. TSA PreCheck lanes remain open at most airports, though some are being evaluated case by case.

The program's restoration means thousands of returning travelers each day can skip lengthy lines and get home to their families faster. For the TSA agents and customs officers working through the funding uncertainty, it also means resources can be distributed more efficiently across airport security operations.

Airlines and travel experts are urging passengers to arrive at airports as early as possible while staffing adjustments continue. The return of Global Entry won't solve all airport delays, but it's a meaningful step toward normalizing the travel experience during one of the busiest seasons of the year.

Travelers who aren't yet enrolled in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck might want to consider applying now for future trips, since the approval process can take several weeks.