The USA’s Global Entry program is now open to Australians

This is what Australian travellers need to know, including how Global Entry works, its benefits and how to apply. 

Australian travellers heading to the United States now have access to one of the most sought-after travel perks: Global Entry. After a successful trial at the start of 2025, the US Government has officially expanded the Global Entry program to include all Australian citizens, promising faster airport processing and a smoother travel experience. 

Can Australians get Global Entry into the USA?

Yes. Australians are now eligible to apply for Global Entry, the United States’ international trusted traveller program. Global Entry is designed to speed up the arrival process when entering the US from overseas. Instead of joining regular passport control queues, which at some major US airports can be hours long, approved travellers use automated kiosks for express processing. This significantly reduces waiting times after long-haul flights. 

The change follows a trial in January 2025, when 1,000 Australian citizens who had travelled to the US at least five times in the previous 12 months were granted access. The trial was deemed a success, leading to the program being opened to all Australians. For frequent travellers, especially those arriving at busy hubs such as Los Angeles, San Francisco or New York, Global Entry can remove much of the stress associated with US border control. 

Can Australians apply for TSA PreCheck?

Yes. One of the major advantages of Global Entry is that it includes access to TSA PreCheck for domestic flights within the United States. TSA PreCheck offers a faster and more convenient airport security experience when departing on US domestic flights. Approved travellers can use dedicated security lanes, which are typically shorter and move more quickly than standard queues. Passengers also benefit from fewer requirements at screening, such as not needing to remove shoes, belts or laptops from bags.

Most airlines operating direct flights between Australia and the US support TSA PreCheck. These include Qantas, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines. This means Australians with Global Entry can enjoy streamlined processing both when arriving in the US and when travelling onward within the country.

How to apply for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck

Applying for Global Entry is a multi-step process and involves several fees. Australians must first submit an application through the US Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website and pay a US$120 (approximately AU$180) application fee to the US Government.

Applicants will then receive an invitation from the Australian Department of Home Affairs to complete an Australian background check. This costs AU$263.50, or AU$123.50 for applicants under nine years of age.

If the application is conditionally approved, travellers must complete an interview either at a Global Entry Enrolment Center or by using the Enrolment on Arrival service at major US airports.

Who is unlikely to be approved?

Global Entry is designed for low-risk travellers, and not all applicants will qualify. Approval is unlikely if an applicant has:

• provided false or incomplete information
• been convicted of any criminal offence or has pending criminal charges or warrants, including driving under the influence
• violated customs, immigration or agricultural regulations in any country
• been the subject of an ongoing investigation by law enforcement
• failed to satisfy US Customs and Border Protection that they are a low-risk traveller