Do I need to show my Global Entry card at customs?

The Global Entry Card: Essential Carry-On or Optional Accessory?

Global Entry offers a welcome reprieve from the often-lengthy lines and tedious paperwork associated with international travel. But once you’re approved and sporting that coveted Trusted Traveler status, a question often arises: Do you actually need to carry your Global Entry card with you? The answer, like many things related to international travel, depends on the specifics of your journey.

The key takeaway is that while you don’t typically need to physically present your Global Entry card at the Global Entry kiosks themselves, it becomes crucial if you plan to leverage other related programs. Let’s break it down:

Global Entry Kiosks: Card Optional

For the most common use case – breezing through the Global Entry kiosks upon arrival in the United States – you can generally leave your card tucked away. The kiosk utilizes biometric data (fingerprints) to verify your identity and eligibility. As long as your information is up-to-date in the system, your card remains largely unnecessary for this process. You’ll scan your passport, answer the declaration questions, and be on your way.

NEXUS and SENTRI: Card Required

However, the convenience narrative changes when you start exploring the extended benefits of your Global Entry membership. Global Entry often grants access to the NEXUS and SENTRI programs, which offer expedited border crossings between the United States and Canada (NEXUS) and the United States and Mexico (SENTRI) respectively.

Here’s where your Global Entry card becomes a necessity. When utilizing NEXUS or SENTRI lanes, you are required to present your physical Global Entry card to the officers. These programs often rely on card-based identification for quicker processing and verification. Without it, you may be denied access to the expedited lanes and forced to go through the standard border crossing procedures.

The Bottom Line: Plan Ahead

So, do you need to show your Global Entry card at customs? The answer is: it depends.

• Using a Global Entry Kiosk for US Entry: Probably not.
• Using NEXUS or SENTRI Lanes for Border Crossings: Absolutely, yes!

The best practice is to always carry your Global Entry card when traveling internationally, especially if you anticipate using NEXUS or SENTRI. Even if you don’t plan to use those programs initially, unexpected changes to your travel plans could make them a valuable asset.

Think of it this way: your Global Entry membership opens doors to various expedited travel options. Your card is the key that unlocks some of those doors. While not always needed, having it on hand ensures you can take full advantage of the benefits your Trusted Traveler status offers, making your journey smoother and more efficient. So, pack that card, travel smart, and enjoy the expedited experience!