Have Global Entry? Re-enter the Country Even Faster

A new mobile app for Global Entry members is now available for passengers returning from overseas — and Pittsburgh International Airport is one of the few U.S. airports to offer it.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which operates international arrivals facilities at U.S. airports, launched the new Global Entry mobile app in September. It allows Global Entry members to use their personal devices to re-enter the country instead of waiting in line to use a portal, saving even more time and providing a touchless experience.

The app is currently in use at only seven U.S. airports: PIT, Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). CBP says it plans to evaluate and expand the app’s use at other airports with Global Entry in the future.

The Global Entry app is the latest program to be offered for international travelers at PIT. The app supplements existing Global Entry kiosks available to members of the Department of Homeland Security’s Trusted Traveler Program, which offers expedited entry and reduced wait times. It joins Mobile Passport Control, also offered at the airport; this app for iOS and android users speeds up the entry process and make some parts of the experience touchless.

How it works

The new Global Entry app allows travelers to take a “selfie” with their device and use it as identification. The photo is compared to a photo gallery to verify their identity through facial biometrics. Travelers will receive a receipt on the app confirming their photo has been submitted.

“It’s a pretty simplistic process just by using the app,” said Bill Fitting, port director, CBP at PIT.

Once the traveler arrives in the primary inspection area, they can bypass the Global Entry kiosks and go directly to CBP officers to efficiently process their entry into the U.S. by showing their mobile receipt.

“Once the plane touches down, you simply go to the app, answer a few questions and take a photo of yourself on the plane and hit send, which goes directly to the officer,” said Fitting. “You then bypass the kiosks and come directly to the officer to answer a few more questions. Then, you’re gone.”

Global Entry members can download the app for free onto iOS devices via the Apple App Store and on Android devices through Google Play. The Global Entry program allows for expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the U.S. Global Entry is used at land, air and sea ports of entry into the United States at all major airports and all airports with U.S. border preclearance.

Global Entry is one of the most popular programs for international travelers, with more than 12 million members as of September 2023, according to CBP.

To enroll into Global Entry, individuals must apply by undergoing an extensive background check and in-person interview before enrollment. Individuals can apply for Global Entry membership or learn more about the program by visiting CBP’s website.

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