What to Do If Your Global Entry Card Never Arrives
This guide is for approved Global Entry members whose card hasn't arrived after several weeks. If you're worried about travel plans or airport reentry without your card, we cover how to track your shipment, contact support, and request a replacement. This advice is especially useful if you plan to use Global Entry at land borders.
Card Delivery Time
7–10 business days
Replacement Fee
$25 (if lost, not if never received)
Where Card is Needed
Land/sea entry only
Who to Contact
CBP via TTP account or Enrollment Center
Global Entry Card Mishaps
No Card in the Mail? Don’t Panic—Here’s What to Do
Many Global Entry members experience delays or non-arrival of their physical card. Knowing what to do—and what not to stress over—can keep your travel seamless and stress-free. We walk you through verifying shipping status, who to contact, and what happens next.
Timeline: From Approval to Resolution
Global Entry Application Approved
Approval triggers automatic card fulfillment and shipment if your address is up to date.
Card Printed and Mailed
Card is produced by CBP and sent via USPS First Class.
Expected Card Arrival Window
Most applicants receive their card in this period.
No Card? Start Troubleshooting
If there's still no delivery, check TTP account status and confirm address details.
Eligible for Free Replacement
Request a replacement card at no fee if the original never arrived.
Steps to Take If Your Global Entry Card Never Arrives
Follow these actions to track, report, and resolve a missing Global Entry card shipment.
Wait at Least 10 Business Days
Cards typically arrive within 7–10 business days if your address is correct.
Don’t worry if it’s been just a week. USPS delays do happen, but anything over 2 weeks is out of the norm.
Check Your TTP Account
Log in to see if shipment info or tracking details are posted.
TTP usually updates your application dashboard when the card is shipped. Look for notifications or tracking numbers.
Contact Your Enrollment Center
Ask about shipment status or if the card was returned to sender.
Use the CBP directory to call the center where you completed your interview; they often know if mail was returned undelivered.
Message CBP via TTP Account
Open a support ticket if the card is overdue or untrackable.
Use the 'Ask for Help' button—explain your situation, including approval date and lack of delivery.
Request a Free Replacement if Never Received
After 30 days, request a replacement at no charge through your TTP dashboard.
Be specific: clarify it was never received, not lost.
Card Never Arrived vs. Lost Card: What’s the Difference?
| Action | Never Arrived | Lost Card |
|---|---|---|
| CBP Fee | No charge for reissue if never delivered | $25 replacement fee |
| How to Report | Use TTP account—note 'never received' | Report loss/stolen via TTP account |
| TSA PreCheck Use | Still available with KTN | Still available with KTN |
| Land Border Use | No card until replacement arrives | No card until replacement arrives |
| Processing Speed | Usually 2–4 weeks for replacement card | Usually 2–4 weeks |
Global Entry Card By the Numbers
Avg. Delivery Time
8 days
Most cards arrive in under 2 weeks, but delays are not rare.
Replacement Requests
10%+
A significant portion of members must request a new card.
Fee Waivers
100% (if not received)
You don’t pay for a card that never comes as long as you report it promptly.
FAQ
Missing Card FAQ
How long should I wait before reporting my card missing?
At least 10 business days from approval; after 30, request a replacement.
Is there a fee if I never received my card?
No—if you report non-delivery, CBP waives the replacement fee.
Can I still use Global Entry at the airport?
Yes. Only land/sea crossings require the physical card.
Who do I contact for help?
Start with your Enrollment Center, then open a TTP support ticket if needed.
Keep exploring what to do if your global entry card never arrives
Global Entry Timeline From Application to Interview
See every step of the Global Entry timeline from application to interview. Learn average wait times, bottlenecks, tips, and how to speed up your Trusted Trav...
How to Update Your Passport After Getting Global Entry
Discover how to update your passport in your Global Entry profile and avoid travel disruptions. Step-by-step update instructions and practical tips.
Can You Use Global Entry With an Expiring Passport?
Planning travel with an expiring passport? Learn if you can use Global Entry, what to expect at the airport, and the risks involved if your passport is close...
Ready to Activate Your Card—or Request a Replacement?
Log into your Trusted Traveler dashboard to check status and request any needed reissue. For airport reentry tips and actionable next steps, browse our expert Global Entry Sooner guides.