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Global Entry for Kids Now Free: A Huge Win for Families!

Writer's picture: YouNique TravelYouNique Travel

As a travel advisor and frequent traveler, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make the journey smoother—especially for families. One of the best time-saving tools I use is Global Entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows expedited entry into the country. It’s been a game-changer for me and my family, helping us skip long customs lines and head straight into our adventures.


Here’s the exciting part: As of October 1, 2024, Global Entry is now FREE for kids under 18! That’s right—if you’re already a member or applying for Global Entry, your kids can join at no additional cost. This is a huge win for families who want to make travel even easier.


What’s Changed?

There are two key updates to the Global Entry program:


  1. Global Entry Fee Increase: As of October 1, 2024, the price of a Global Entry membership has increased from $100 to $120 for a 5-year term. This means you’ll pay slightly more for your membership, but given the time and stress it saves, it’s still a fantastic deal.


  2. Kids Now Enroll for Free: Previously, parents had to pay $100 for each child’s Global Entry membership, just like an adult. But with this new rule, kids under 18 no longer have to pay the fee, provided a parent or guardian is also a member or applying with them. This can result in significant savings for families!


My Personal Example

Let me share a personal story to illustrate how this can save you money. A few years ago, I applied for Global Entry for myself and my two kids. At the time, the fee was $100 per person, so I paid $300 in total for our family of three to have Global Entry.

With the new rule, I would have only had to pay the $100 fee for myself (or $120 under the new pricing). My two kids would have been free to enroll, saving me a total of $200. 💰 If you’ve got multiple children, the savings can really add up!


Why Global Entry is a Must-Have for Families

If you’re still on the fence about whether Global Entry is worth it for your family, let me share some reasons why it’s a no-brainer:


  1. No More Long Lines: After a long flight, the last thing you want is to wait in a customs line with tired, cranky kids. With Global Entry, you bypass the regular customs line and head straight to a kiosk, making your return to the U.S. quick and painless.

  2. TSA PreCheck Included: Your Global Entry membership also includes TSA PreCheck benefits, which means shorter security lines at the airport, no need to remove shoes or laptops, and a much quicker screening process.

  3. Five Years of Convenience: Once you’re approved, your Global Entry membership is valid for five years. That’s five years of stress-free travel with your family—definitely worth the fee!

  4. Now Even More Affordable for Families: With the new free-for-kids rule, you can save a significant amount of money while still getting all the perks of Global Entry for your entire family.


How to Apply for Global Entry

If you haven’t signed up yet, now is the perfect time—especially with the new pricing changes. Here’s how you can apply for Global Entry for your family:


  1. Submit an Application: Head over to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website to start your application. You’ll need to fill out an individual form for each family member, including your kids.

  2. Schedule an Interview: Once your application is conditionally approved, you’ll need to schedule an interview at an Enrollment Center. Make sure to bring your kids along for their interviews if they’re under 18. Bonus Tip: If you're already traveling internationally, you may be able to complete your interview without an appointment when you return to the U.S.! As long as the U.S. Customs office is open upon your arrival, you can request to complete your interview at that time. This can be a convenient option if you want to avoid scheduling an interview during your busy day-to-day routine.

  3. Pay the Fee: The updated fee is $120 for adults, but remember—kids under 18 are now free if a parent is a member or applying at the same time.

  4. Enjoy Fast-Tracked Travel: Once your application is approved, you and your family can enjoy the benefits of Global Entry for the next five years!


The Bottom Line

This new Global Entry benefit is a major win for traveling families. Not only can you save time at the airport, but now you can save money by enrolling your kids for free. And with the fee increase from $100 to $120, it’s still a worthwhile investment for five years of convenience.


If you’re planning to travel soon, take advantage of this new rule and make your trips as smooth as possible by getting your kids signed up for Global Entry. You’ll be glad you did the next time you breeze through customs with your kids in tow!

Need help planning your next family escape or have questions about Global Entry? Contact me at YouNique Travel Services LLC—I’m here to help make your travel dreams come true!


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