Global Entry Program to Resume
“As DHS continually evaluates measures it can take amidst the Democrats’ continued shutdown of the department, DHS will be reactivating Global Entry on March 11th at 5:00 AM ET,” stated a spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This announcement marks a significant development for the Global Entry program, which had been suspended since February 22, 2026, due to a partial government shutdown.
The Global Entry program allows preapproved American citizens and lawful permanent residents to bypass standard passport-control lines, significantly reducing wait times for international travelers. Membership in the program is valid for up to five years and requires applicants to pay a $120 application fee, undergo background checks, and attend an interview.
The suspension of Global Entry drew criticism from various lawmakers and industry groups, who argued that it not only inconvenienced travelers but also compromised national security. The US Travel Association emphasized that “Global Entry is far more than a convenience, it is on the front line of national security,” highlighting the program’s importance in maintaining efficient and secure travel processes.
Prior to the suspension, Global Entry boasted approximately 13 million members, all of whom were affected by the shutdown. The program’s funding comes primarily from the application fees paid by members every five years, which raised concerns about the financial implications of the suspension during the ongoing government shutdown.
The decision to suspend Global Entry was part of emergency measures taken by DHS to conserve funding and personnel during the shutdown. The unusual decision to suspend Global Entry had been strongly criticized across the travel sector and by some lawmakers on Capitol Hill, who argued that the program’s suspension was detrimental to both travelers and the economy.
With the resumption of Global Entry, members will once again have access to TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security, further streamlining the travel experience. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding when normal operations will fully return after funding is reinstated.
As the situation evolves, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about any updates from DHS regarding the Global Entry program and its operations in the coming weeks. The return of Global Entry is expected to alleviate some of the pressures faced by frequent international travelers during the shutdown, restoring a vital service that enhances both convenience and security in air travel.
