What Triggers a Secondary Review in Global Entry Applications?

Short answer: A "secondary review" in Global Entry means U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is doing an extra check on your application before granting or denying conditional approval. CBP does not publish a definitive list of triggers, but common factors include criminal or customs history, identity or document mismatches, frequent travel to certain countries, incomplete or inconsistent information, or random quality assurance. The review can take weeks to several months. You cannot speed it up by reapplying; you must wait for CBP to finish.

Secondary review is not a denial. Many applicants are conditionally approved after review. Staying patient and avoiding duplicate applications or excessive inquiries helps. If your status has been stuck for a long time, see How to Contact CBP About Global Entry Delays for appropriate ways to follow up.

What Secondary Review Means

When your application is in "secondary review" (or similar wording in the Trusted Traveler Programs portal), it has been pulled for additional verification beyond the initial automated and routine checks. This can involve manual review of your background, travel history, documents, or consistency of your answers. It is a normal part of CBP's process for a subset of applications; it does not automatically mean something is wrong.

Common Triggers for Secondary Review

CBP does not disclose exact criteria, but applications are more likely to get a closer look when:

• Criminal or customs history: Arrests, convictions, or customs violations (even if old or minor) may require manual review.
• Identity or document issues: Name changes, multiple citizenships, or documents that don't match perfectly can trigger verification.
• Travel patterns: Extensive travel to certain countries or regions may prompt additional checks.
• Inconsistencies: Mismatches between your application and other government records (e.g., dates, addresses, employment) can cause a flag.
• Random or quality assurance: Some applications are selected at random for audit.

Having one of these factors does not mean you will be denied. It often means more time is needed to verify your eligibility.

How Long It Takes

Secondary review has no fixed timeline. Some applicants hear back in a few weeks; others wait several months. Delays can increase during high application volume or staffing changes. Your TTP portal status may stay in "Pending Review" or similar until CBP completes the review. For typical timelines when there is no secondary review, see How Long Does Global Entry Conditional Approval Take in 2026?

What You Can Do

• Wait. There is no way to "expedite" or skip secondary review. Submitting a new application can create duplicates and slow things down.
• Ensure your contact information is correct in the TTP portal so CBP can reach you if they need anything.
• Respond promptly if CBP requests additional information or documents.
• Follow up only if appropriate. If your application has been in review far longer than the usual processing time (e.g., many months), you can contact CBP through official channels—see How to Contact CBP About Global Entry Delays. Avoid flooding them with requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be denied if I'm in secondary review?

Not necessarily. Many applicants in secondary review are eventually conditionally approved. Review is an extra step, not a final decision.

Can I reapply to "reset" the review?

No. You can only have one active application at a time. Reapplying can complicate your case and does not clear secondary review.

Should I hire someone to expedite my application?

No third party can expedite or override CBP's review. Anyone claiming they can is misleading you. Only CBP decides the outcome and timing.