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October 21, 2025 / 7 min read

Common Global Entry Interview Questions (And How to Answer Them)

Professional interview preparation with documents and notes

Your Global Entry interview is the final step before approval. While it's typically straightforward, knowing what questions to expect and how to answer them can make all the difference. This guide covers the 20 most common questions CBP officers ask and expert tips to ace your interview.

Table of Contents

What to Expect at Your Global Entry Interview

The Global Entry interview typically lasts 10-30 minutes and is conducted by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. The purpose is to verify your information, assess your eligibility, and ensure you're a low-risk traveler.

Interview Structure:

  • Document Review: Officer verifies your passport, ID, and other documents
  • Biometric Collection: Fingerprinting, photograph, and iris scan
  • Question Session: 10-20 questions about your application and background
  • Decision: Approval, pending review, or denial

💡 Key Insight

Most interviews are conversational and friendly. CBP officers aren't trying to trick you—they're verifying information and assessing risk. Be honest, direct, and confident in your answers.

Basic Information Questions

These foundational questions verify your application details and help the officer understand who you are.

Q1: "Why do you want Global Entry?"

Best Answer: "I travel internationally frequently for [work/leisure] and Global Entry will help me clear customs more efficiently. I typically visit [countries] about [X] times per year."

Q2: "How often do you travel internationally?"

Best Answer: Be specific and honest. "I travel internationally about [X] times per year, primarily to [regions/countries] for [business/vacation/family visits]."

Q3: "What is your current occupation?"

Best Answer: Provide a clear, concise description. "I work as a [job title] at [company name], where I [brief description of responsibilities]."

Q4: "Are you employed? Where do you work?"

Best Answer: "Yes, I work at [company name] as a [position]. I've been there for [duration]." If self-employed or retired, explain clearly.

Travel History Questions

These questions assess your travel patterns and help identify any potential concerns.

Q5: "Which countries do you visit most frequently?"

Best Answer: "I most frequently visit [country 1] and [country 2] for [business/leisure]. I also occasionally travel to [other regions]."

Q6: "What is the purpose of your international travel?"

Best Answer: "My travel is primarily for [business/leisure/visiting family]. For business, I [explain]. For leisure, I typically [explain]."

Q7: "Have you ever been denied entry to any country?"

Best Answer: If no: "No, I've never been denied entry." If yes: Be honest and explain the circumstances clearly without being defensive.

Q8: "Do you travel with family or alone?"

Best Answer: "I typically travel [alone/with my spouse/with family]. [Add context if relevant, such as 'My spouse also has Global Entry']."

Q9: "Have you visited any countries in conflict zones or high-risk areas?"

Best Answer: If yes, be honest and explain the purpose. "Yes, I traveled to [country] for [legitimate reason: work assignment, humanitarian work, family emergency]. I can provide documentation if needed."

Background and Employment Questions

These questions verify your background and identify any potential security concerns.

Q10: "Have you ever been arrested or convicted of a crime?"

Best Answer: If no: "No, I have no criminal history." If yes: Disclose honestly. "Yes, I had a [type of charge] in [year]. It was resolved with [outcome]. I disclosed this in my application."

Q11: "Have you ever had any customs or immigration violations?"

Best Answer: If no: "No, I've never had any violations." If yes: Explain briefly and honestly, showing you understand the error and have learned from it.

Q12: "Do you bring back goods when you travel internationally?"

Best Answer: "Yes, occasionally I bring back [typical items: souvenirs, gifts] within the allowed limits. I always declare items as required by customs regulations."

Q13: "Have you ever failed to declare something to customs?"

Best Answer: If no: "No, I always declare items as required." If yes (unintentional): "Once I unintentionally forgot to declare [item], but it was an honest mistake. I understand the importance of proper declaration now."

Q14: "Do you have any relatives or close friends who work for customs or border protection?"

Best Answer: Answer truthfully. This isn't necessarily disqualifying. "No, I don't" or "Yes, my [relation] works for [agency]."

Situational Questions

These assess your judgment and understanding of customs regulations.

Q15: "If someone asked you to bring something back for them, what would you do?"

Best Answer: "I would decline. I understand it's my responsibility to know what I'm bringing into the country, and I wouldn't transport items for others without knowing exactly what they are."

Q16: "What would you do if you accidentally brought back a prohibited item?"

Best Answer: "I would immediately declare it to the CBP officer and surrender the item if necessary. I understand that honesty is crucial, even for unintentional mistakes."

Q17: "Do you understand that Global Entry can be revoked?"

Best Answer: "Yes, I understand that Global Entry is a privilege that can be revoked if I violate customs regulations or fail to maintain eligibility requirements."

Additional Common Questions

Q18: "Is all the information on your application accurate?"

Best Answer: "Yes, all information is accurate to the best of my knowledge. If there are any discrepancies, I'd be happy to clarify them."

Q19: "Do you have any questions about Global Entry?"

Best Answer: You can ask practical questions like "When will my membership card arrive?" or "Can I use Global Entry at all international airports?" Avoid asking questions that suggest you don't understand the program.

Q20: "Why did you choose this enrollment center?"

Best Answer: "I chose this location because it's [closest to my home/work, or I was able to get an earlier appointment here]. I was conditionally approved and wanted to complete the process as soon as possible."

Red Flags to Avoid

Certain behaviors and answers can raise concerns during your interview:

What NOT to Do:

  • Don't lie or exaggerate: CBP officers have access to extensive databases. Dishonesty is grounds for immediate denial
  • Don't be defensive or argumentative: Stay calm and professional, even if questions feel repetitive
  • Don't volunteer unnecessary information: Answer questions directly without rambling
  • Don't make jokes about security or customs: These topics are taken seriously
  • Don't bring prohibited items to the interview: This includes weapons, drugs, or anything illegal
  • Don't be late or unprepared: Arrive early with all required documents

⚠️ Critical Warning

The single biggest mistake applicants make is failing to disclose information they think is minor. Even old traffic violations, dropped charges, or brief detentions should be disclosed if asked. CBP will find them anyway, and undisclosed information is worse than the violation itself.

How to Prepare for Your Interview

Before the Interview:

  1. Review your application: Re-read everything you submitted so your answers match
  2. Gather documents: Bring passport, driver's license, and any supporting documents
  3. Research your travel history: Be able to recall countries visited and approximate dates
  4. Prepare employment details: Know your employer's full name, address, and your job responsibilities
  5. Practice answers: Rehearse responses to common questions, but don't memorize scripts
  6. Dress professionally: Business casual is appropriate
  7. Arrive early: Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your appointment

During the Interview:

  • Be respectful and courteous: Address the officer professionally
  • Listen carefully: Make sure you understand each question before answering
  • Answer concisely: Provide complete but brief answers
  • Maintain eye contact: Shows confidence and honesty
  • Stay calm: Even if nervous, take a breath and answer thoughtfully
  • Ask for clarification: If you don't understand a question, politely ask the officer to repeat it

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What Happens After the Interview

Immediate Outcomes:

At the end of your interview, you'll typically receive one of three decisions:

1. Approved

  • Congratulations! You'll receive your Global Entry card in 7-10 business days
  • Your membership is active immediately—you can use Global Entry kiosks right away
  • TSA PreCheck will be added to your airline reservations within 24 hours

2. Pending

  • Additional review is required (common if you have complex travel history or background)
  • You'll receive an email notification with the decision, usually within 30 days
  • No action needed on your part unless CBP requests additional information

3. Denied

  • Your application is rejected (rare if you received conditional approval)
  • You'll receive a letter explaining the reason for denial
  • You can appeal through the DHS TRIP program or reapply after one year

After Approval:

  • Add your PASSID to flight reservations: Your Known Traveler Number for TSA PreCheck
  • Download the Mobile Passport Control app: Additional convenience tool
  • Familiarize yourself with Global Entry kiosks: Watch tutorial videos online
  • Mark your calendar: Global Entry expires after 5 years

Final Tips for Success

Your Global Entry interview is the final hurdle before enjoying expedited travel for the next five years. Here's what matters most:

  • Honesty is paramount: Always tell the truth, even about minor issues
  • Be consistent: Your answers should match your application
  • Stay professional: Dress appropriately and maintain a respectful demeanor
  • Know your travel history: Be able to discuss where you've been and why
  • Understand the program: Know what Global Entry is and how it works
  • Relax: Most interviews go smoothly when you're prepared and honest

📊 Success Rate

Over 95% of conditionally approved applicants who attend their interview are ultimately approved. The interview is largely a formality to verify information—if you've been honest on your application and during the interview, approval is highly likely.

Remember: The hardest part of Global Entry isn't the interview—it's getting the interview appointment in the first place. Popular enrollment centers can have wait times exceeding 6 months.

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