Can Minors Travel Through Global Entry Alongside Their Parents- A Comprehensive Guide

Can minors go through Global Entry with parents? This is a common question among families traveling internationally. Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. While the program is designed for adults, the question of whether minors can participate with their parents is an important one for many families.

The answer to this question is yes, minors can go through Global Entry with their parents. However, there are certain requirements and procedures that must be followed. According to the CBP, children under the age of 18 can be included on their parent’s Global Entry application as a “dependent” or “travel companion.” This means that the child can use the same Global Entry benefits as their parent, such as expedited clearance at U.S. airports.

To include a minor on a Global Entry application, the parent must complete the following steps:

1. The parent must have an active Global Entry membership.
2. The parent must complete the Global Entry application for their child, including providing the child’s personal information and biographical data.
3. The parent must upload a recent photograph of the child.
4. The parent must pay the Global Entry application fee for their child, which is the same as the fee for adults.

It is important to note that while minors can go through Global Entry with their parents, they must still undergo the required interview process with a CBP officer. This interview is designed to assess the child’s identity and admissibility into the United States. The interview is typically conducted at a CBP enrollment center or during a Global Entry interview appointment.

In addition to the interview, minors must also provide proof of their U.S. citizenship or legal permanent resident status. This can be done by submitting a copy of their birth certificate, passport, or other appropriate documentation.

By following these steps, families can ensure that their minors can enjoy the benefits of Global Entry while traveling with their parents. This can make the process of entering the United States much smoother and less stressful, especially for those traveling frequently or to destinations with longer wait times at customs.

In conclusion, the answer to the question “Can minors go through Global Entry with parents?” is yes, with certain conditions and procedures. By including their child on their Global Entry application and completing the necessary interviews and documentation, parents can help their minors enjoy the benefits of expedited clearance at U.S. airports.