Traveling can be exhilarating, but dealing with long airport lines often puts a damper on the excitement. This is why I decided to apply for Global Entry, a program designed to expedite the customs process for international travelers. To my surprise, my experience was nothing short of remarkable—one of the quickest processes I’ve ever encountered!
The Application Process
On Wednesday, I filled out the application online at the official CBP website. The form was straightforward and user-friendly, making it easy to provide all the necessary information. I hit “submit” and went about my day, not expecting much until the following week.
However, the very next day—Thursday—I received an email notifying me that my application had been approved! I was ecstatic but also curious about how soon I could complete the next step. That’s when I checked for an appointment for the in-person interview. Miraculously, I found a last-minute slot for Friday morning.
Friday arrived, and I went to the interview, which was efficient and friendly. By Friday afternoon, I received the glorious news: I was officially approved for Global Entry! Now I have both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, making my travel experience significantly smoother.
The Cost Factor
One of the cherry on top of this swift approval process was the fee. The $100 application fee for Global Entry was credited back to my United MileagePlus Card! This perk is one of the reasons I love using this credit card for my travels. It’s an incredible way to maximize rewards and minimize costs.
Benefits of the United MileagePlus Credit Card
If you’re a frequent traveler, consider the United MileagePlus Credit Card for several compelling reasons:
- Earn Miles on Every Purchase: You earn miles for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and more.
- Free Checked Bags: Save money and hassle by checking your first bag free on United flights for you and a companion.
- Priority Boarding: Enjoy the convenience of getting on the plane sooner, allowing you to settle in before the rush.
- Travel Protection: The card offers various travel protections, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, which can provide peace of mind on your journeys.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: When traveling abroad, this card eliminates those pesky fees, making it a smart choice for international travelers.
- Global Entry Fee Reimbursement: As I mentioned, the card offers reimbursement for the Global Entry application fee, so you can get the benefits without the initial out-of-pocket expense.
If you’re interested in maximizing your travel experiences, consider applying for the United MileagePlus Card here.
Conclusion
My experience with obtaining Global Entry was nothing short of a breeze. From the rapid application approval to the efficient interview process, I was amazed at how quickly everything fell into place. With Global Entry and TSA PreCheck now in my arsenal, I can focus on enjoying my travels rather than stressing over long lines.
If you travel internationally even a couple of times a year, I highly recommend applying for Global Entry. Pair it with the United MileagePlus Card, and you’ll be on your way to more seamless, enjoyable travel experiences!