History of Global Entry in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 2, 2025

Global Entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program, expedites entry for pre-approved, low-risk travelers into the United States. It utilizes automatic kiosks at select airports and SENTRI/NEXUS lanes for land/sea crossings. In 2024, the program was available at 62 U.S. and 14 non-U.S. airports with preclearance. Enrollment exceeded 12.7 million members, demonstrating its popularity and efficiency in streamlining international arrivals.

2002: INSPASS Program Discontinued

In 2002, the INSPASS trusted traveler program was discontinued when the INS was merged with U.S. Customs to form U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

2008: Global Entry Program Initial Deployment

In 2008, the Global Entry program was initially deployed at a small number of airports, including New York-JFK (Terminal 4), Washington-Dulles and Houston-Intercontinental. Following a good reception by travelers, the program was expanded to include Los Angeles International, Atlanta-Hartsfield, Chicago-O'Hare and Miami International Airport.

May 2009: Global Entry Membership Expanded to Netherlands Citizens

In May 2009, Global Entry membership was expanded to include Netherlands citizens who are also members of the Dutch Privium trusted traveler program under the FLUX alliance. Members of NEXUS and SENTRI are also entitled to use Global Entry.

February 6, 2020: DHS Prohibits New York Residents from Applying for Trusted Traveler Programs

On February 6, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security announced that it would immediately prohibit New York state residents from applying for or renewing trusted traveler programs including Global Entry due to the "Green Light Law".

July 23, 2020: DHS Reopens Trusted Traveler Programs for New York Residents

On July 23, 2020, after New York amended its law, the Department of Homeland Security reopened the trusted traveler programs for New York residents.

2020: Global Entry Membership Demographics

As of 2020, more than 97% of Global Entry members were citizens or permanent residents of the United States.

2020: New York's "Green Light Law" Enacted

In 2020, New York's immigrant sanctuary "Green Light Law" prohibited its state DMV from sharing criminal records with the federal Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) without a court order.

October 2024: Global Entry Fee Increase

Before October 2024, the Global Entry application fee was US$100 for applicants of any age.

2024: Global Entry Availability and Enrollment

As of 2024, Global Entry was available at 62 U.S. airports and 14 non-U.S. airports with U.S. preclearance, and more than 12.7 million people were enrolled in the program.