The Global Entry program continues to evolve rapidly in 2025, with significant developments that impact both new applicants and existing members. From new enrollment centers expanding accessibility to groundbreaking mobile app milestones and international partnerships, here's everything you need to know about the latest Global Entry updates.

New Enrollment Centers Open

In September 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the opening of two new Global Entry Enrollment Centers in the Gulf Coast region, significantly expanding access for travelers in the southeastern United States.

Trent Lott CBP Office - Moss Point, Mississippi

The first new center opened at the Trent Lott CBP Office in Moss Point, Mississippi. This location serves travelers throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast region and provides a convenient alternative to the previously nearest centers in New Orleans or Mobile.

Chattanooga CBP Office - Chattanooga, Tennessee

The second new center opened at the Chattanooga CBP Office in Tennessee, bringing Global Entry enrollment services to eastern Tennessee and surrounding areas. This center helps reduce travel time for applicants who previously had to drive to Atlanta, Nashville, or other major metropolitan areas.

Impact on Appointment Availability

The addition of these centers provides several benefits for Global Entry applicants:

• Reduced Travel Distance: Local residents can now access enrollment centers without long drives
• More Appointment Slots: Additional centers mean more total appointment availability
• Less Competition: Newer centers often have shorter wait times initially
• Regional Coverage: Better geographic distribution of enrollment services

Mobile App Hits Major Milestone

The Global Entry Mobile Application reached a significant milestone in September 2025, with over 1.6 million users in its first two years of operation. This represents a major shift toward digital-first travel processing.

App Features and Capabilities

The mobile app allows travelers to complete arrival processing using facial recognition technology and a mobile receipt, eliminating the need for traditional kiosks in many cases. Key features include:

• Facial Recognition: Touchless identity verification using biometric technology
• Mobile Receipt: Digital processing confirmation sent directly to your phone
• Faster Processing: Reduced wait times compared to traditional kiosk methods
• Wide Availability: Accepted at 80+ airports and preclearance locations worldwide

Growing Adoption

The rapid adoption of the mobile app reflects travelers' preference for digital solutions and CBP's commitment to modernizing the travel experience. The app's success demonstrates:

• Strong user satisfaction with digital processing
• Efficiency gains for both travelers and CBP officers
• Scalability for handling increasing travel volumes
• Foundation for future technology enhancements

Australia Becomes Global Entry Partner

In January 2025, CBP announced a partnership with Australia, making it an official Global Entry partner country. This collaboration strengthens travel and security ties between the two nations while providing expedited entry benefits for eligible Australian citizens.

Partnership Details

Under this partnership, pre-vetted, low-risk Australian citizens can now apply for Global Entry and receive expedited customs and immigration processing upon arrival in the United States. This includes:

• Eligibility: Australian citizens meeting Global Entry requirements
• Application Process: Same application process as U.S. citizens
• Benefits: Expedited entry at U.S. airports and preclearance locations
• TSA PreCheck: Included with Global Entry membership

Expanding International Access

Australia joins a growing list of Global Entry partner countries, which includes:

• Canada (via NEXUS program)
• Mexico (via SENTRI program)
• South Korea
• Germany
• The Netherlands
• Panama
• Singapore
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• And now Australia

Fee Increase: What Changed and Why

Effective October 1, 2024, CBP increased the application fee for Global Entry and NEXUS from $100 to $120. This marked the first fee increase since 2008 and reflects the program's evolution and expanded services.

Fee Breakdown

• Previous Fee: $100 (unchanged since 2008)
• New Fee: $120 (effective October 2024)
• Increase: $20 (20% increase)
• Validity: Still valid for 5 years

Why the Increase?

CBP cited several reasons for the fee adjustment:

• Technology Investments: Funding for mobile app development, facial recognition systems, and digital infrastructure
• Capacity Expansion: Supporting the opening of new enrollment centers and extended hours
• Program Enhancements: Maintaining and improving service quality
• Inflation Adjustment: First increase in 16 years, accounting for inflation and increased operational costs

Value Proposition

Despite the fee increase, Global Entry remains an excellent value:

• 5-Year Validity: $24 per year ($120 ÷ 5 years)
• TSA PreCheck Included: Worth $78 separately
• Time Savings: Expedited processing saves hours annually
• International Benefits: Faster entry from international destinations

Technology Improvements and Facial Recognition

CBP has made significant strides in biometric technology, processing over 803 million travelers using facial recognition systems as of September 2025, with match rates exceeding 99% accuracy.

Facial Recognition Statistics

Technology Benefits

These improvements provide several advantages:

• Accuracy: 99%+ match rates ensure reliable identity verification
• Speed: Faster processing compared to manual document checks
• Security: Enhanced security through biometric verification
• Efficiency: Reduced wait times at ports of entry
• Touchless Processing: Improved hygiene and convenience

Integration with Global Entry

Facial recognition technology is seamlessly integrated with Global Entry processing:

• Automatic recognition at kiosks and mobile app
• Faster processing for Global Entry members
• Reduced need for manual document verification
• Consistent experience across different entry points

What This Means for Applicants

These recent updates have several practical implications for both new applicants and existing Global Entry members:

For New Applicants

• More Enrollment Options: New centers provide additional appointment availability
• Updated Fee: Budget for $120 instead of $100 when applying
• Better Technology: Expect faster, more efficient processing
• Mobile Benefits: Can use mobile app immediately after approval

For Existing Members

• Mobile App Access: Download and use the app for faster arrivals
• Technology Improvements: Benefit from enhanced facial recognition
• Renewal Fee: Will pay $120 when renewing (if renewal occurs after October 2024)
• More Locations: Additional centers may offer renewal appointments

Application Strategy

Given these updates, here are strategic considerations:

• Check New Centers: Monitor appointment availability at newly opened locations
• Budget Accordingly: Account for the $120 fee in your application planning
• Use Technology: Take advantage of mobile app and digital processing
• Stay Informed: Keep up with program updates and new features

Future Outlook

Based on recent trends and CBP announcements, here's what to expect in the coming months and years:

Expected Developments

• More Enrollment Centers: Continued expansion to underserved areas
• Technology Enhancements: Further improvements to mobile app and processing systems
• International Partnerships: Additional countries joining the program
• Extended Hours: More centers offering evening and weekend appointments
• Digital Innovations: Enhanced mobile features and touchless processing

Program Growth

The Global Entry program continues to grow, with:

• Over 15 million active members
• Increasing application volumes
• Expanding international partnerships
• Growing technology adoption

Staying Current

To stay informed about future Global Entry updates:

• Follow CBP announcements and social media
• Check the official Global Entry website regularly
• Subscribe to travel news and updates
• Monitor enrollment center openings in your region

Conclusion

The Global Entry program is experiencing significant positive developments in 2025. New enrollment centers are expanding accessibility, the mobile app is revolutionizing the travel experience, international partnerships are growing, and technology improvements are making processing faster and more efficient.

While the fee increase reflects the program's evolution and expanded services, Global Entry remains an exceptional value for frequent travelers. The combination of TSA PreCheck, expedited international entry, and now mobile app convenience makes it one of the best investments for anyone who travels regularly.

For those considering applying or looking to secure an earlier appointment, these updates provide more options and better technology. However, appointment availability remains competitive, making monitoring services like GE Finder valuable tools for finding earlier interview slots.