What to Know About Applying for Global Entry for Children
This guide is for parents and guardians who want to streamline international trips by securing Global Entry for their children. It explains how the process differs for kids, what to expect, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
Minimum Age
No minimum; infants qualify
Application Fee
$100 per child
Parental Presence?
Yes, at interview
Passport Required?
Yes
Smart Family Travel
Applying for Global Entry for Kids Isn't a Shortcut—but It's Worth It
Every minor traveling internationally can benefit from Global Entry, but each child, including infants, needs a separate application and interview. Understanding the paperwork and interview logistics saves parents from frustrating delays—especially when trying to sync appointments for the whole family.
Steps to Apply for Global Entry for Children
Kids undergo almost the same process as adults, but with some key differences parents should know.
Create a TTP Account for Each Child
Every applicant—regardless of age—needs a unique Trusted Traveler Program profile.
Apply online at the official TTP website. Parents must help complete the application for any child under 18.
Submit Application and Pay Fee
Pay a non-refundable $100 fee for each child.
Check if you have credit card benefits that cover this fee. Some cards reimburse for multiple Global Entry applicants.
Wait for Conditional Approval
Application reviews can take weeks or months.
You'll get an email when your child is conditionally approved. Only then can you schedule their interview.
Book and Attend the Interview
Schedule the interview for your child at a Global Entry Enrollment Center.
A parent or legal guardian must be present. Try to coordinate the appointment with other family members if possible.
Bring Required Documents
Come prepared to avoid delays.
You’ll need the child's passport, proof of residency (like a utility bill in the parent's name), the conditional approval letter, and any legal documents for guardianship if not the biological parent.
Common Family Scenarios
Two Kids, One Parent
Situation: You’re applying for both children and yourself.
Move: Try for back-to-back appointments at one center. Each child must have a parent present during their interview.
Step-Parent or Legal Guardian
Situation: You need to enroll a child who is not biologically yours.
Move: Bring legal paperwork—like a guardianship order or letter of consent—to the interview.
One Child’s Approval Lags
Situation: Sibling applications enter review at the same time, but only one gets conditional approval.
Move: Monitor daily for interview slots for each child, or use a service to catch cancellations.
Global Entry Application: Adults vs. Children
| Step | Adult Applicants | Children Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Account Creation | Create own TTP account | Parent creates account for the child |
| Fee Payment | $100, often reimbursed by travel cards | $100, some cards cover multiple family members |
| Interview | Attend solo | Child must attend with a parent/guardian |
| Required Documents | Passport and ID | Passport plus proof of address and birth certificate if needed |
| Approval Time | Similar for all ages | Same, but family approval may not be simultaneous |
Smart Tips for Smooth Family Appointments
Check Your Card Benefits
Many premium travel cards reimburse multiple Global Entry fees—review your issuer’s policy.
Monitor for Interview Cancellations
Use tools like Global Entry Sooner to find earlier or grouped family slots.
Bring Extra Identification
Have birth certificates handy, especially for adopted children or guardians.
Don’t Wait for School Breaks
Appointments fill early around holidays—book as soon as conditional approval is received.
Before and After: Family Reentry
Without Global Entry
Entire family waits in standard immigration lines—even if parents have Global Entry but kids don’t.
With Global Entry for All
Family breezes through kiosks together, exiting customs in minutes.
FAQ
Quick FAQ: Kids and Global Entry
Do children need their own TTP profiles?
Yes, each child—regardless of age—requires a separate online profile and application.
Are infants required to attend the interview?
Yes. All minors must be physically present with a parent or legal guardian.
Can families attend Global Entry interviews together?
If all applicants are conditionally approved, you can try to book back-to-back or group appointments.
Is the Global Entry application fee waived for kids?
No, it’s $100 per child. Some credit cards cover multiple application fees for family members.
Keep exploring applying for global entry for children
Global Entry for Families: How to Apply With Kids
Learn how to apply for Global Entry with children. Step-by-step process, family tips, requirements, and how to simplify rebooking interviews for everyone.
TSA PreCheck for Parents Traveling With Young Kids
Parents: Learn if your children can access TSA PreCheck lanes, when kids need their own PreCheck, and how to streamline your family’s airport journey.
Can Kids Get NEXUS or SENTRI Too?
Yes, kids qualify for NEXUS and SENTRI, but each child needs a separate application and interview—even infants. Here’s how to streamline the process.
Want Earlier Family Appointments?
Use Global Entry Sooner to monitor for cancellations and save your family the hassle of multiple visits.