Everything Australians need to know about Global Entry for the USA

Traveloka Team

2 min read

Hate lining up at immigration? Global Entry lets Aussie travellers skip the queues and speed through US passport control. If you’re a frequent flyer to the States or planning a big trip, getting Global Entry could save you heaps of time and stress.

Do Australians need Global Entry for the USA?

Nope, you don't need Global Entry to visit the USA in the sense that it’s a requirement. But if you're a frequent traveller to the States or just hate queues (who doesn't?), it's definitely worth it

Cost of Global Entry for the USA

Here's what you'll pay:

US application fee: US$120 (non-refundable, but minors under 18 are free when they apply with an adult)

Australian background check: AU$263.50 for applicants 10 years and over, AU$123.50 for applicants 9 years and under

How long is it valid for?

Your Global Entry membership lasts five years from the date of approval. You can renew up to 364 days before it expires, but you'll also get a reminder email when it's time to reapply. Most applications are processed within 4 - 6 months, though some can take up to 12 months.

Checklist for USA Global Entry

Here's what you'll need to apply:

Valid Australian passport.

Photo ID that shows your current residential address (driver's licence works perfectly).

Travel history for the past five years.

Employment history.

Previous residential addresses.

Payment for both the US application fee and the Australian background check fee.

Is Global Entry available on arrival?

Yep! You can complete your Global Entry interview on arrival at certain US airports through the Enrollment on Arrival (EoA) program. This option is perfect if you can't schedule an interview at an Enrollment Centre before your trip or prefer to get it sorted while you're already there. Not all US airports offer this service, so check the Enrollment on Arrival website for locations that do.

You can also complete your interview at an Enrollment Centre before you travel, though appointment availability varies from weeks to months.

USA Global Entry application process

Here's how to apply:

Create an account on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website.

Complete your application with your travel history, employment details, addresses, and passport information.

Pay the US$120 application fee.

Complete the Australian background check application when you receive the invitation from the Department of Home Affairs and pay the relevant fee.

Wait for conditional approval (most applications without a criminal history are approved within 4 - 6 months).

Schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Centre, or use Enrollment on Arrival when you enter the US.

Attend your interview with your passport and photo ID.

Receive your final approval and PASS ID number (your membership card will arrive in the mail within 7 - 8 weeks, but you can start to use Global Entry benefits straight away)

All ready to sort your Global Entry and finish planning your trip to the USA?

Once your Global Entry is sorted, book your flights, accommodation, and activities through Traveloka. With 24/7 support and heaps of payment options, your US adventure is just a few clicks away.