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- Why Global Entry interviews paused during the partial shutdown
- Why TSA PreCheck is still functioning
- Who is affected and who can still travel with benefits
- Practical steps for travelers right now
- Alternatives and workarounds while enrollment is limited
- How to monitor status and get reliable updates
- What to expect for timelines and processing
Travelers preparing for upcoming trips got a sudden change: in-person enrollment for Global Entry has been paused at many sites while TSA PreCheck continues to operate. The pause affects new applicants and some renewals, but routine airport security lanes that use PreCheck remain open across the country.
Why Global Entry interviews paused during the partial shutdown
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) conducts the in-person interviews needed to activate Global Entry memberships. During a partial government shutdown, some CBP staff are furloughed or shifted to essential duties.
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That means enrollment centers and appointment availability can be limited or temporarily closed. The program’s fee-based online application may still be accepted, but the mandatory interview step is the bottleneck for new approvals.
Why TSA PreCheck is still functioning
TSA is funded differently and maintains core screening operations even when portions of government pause. PreCheck lanes at airports continue to operate, and existing PreCheck memberships remain usable.
- TSA operations are considered essential to keep airports running.
- PreCheck eligibility processing is handled by TSA and contractor resources that remain active.
- Travelers with active PreCheck or Global Entry should expect their benefits to continue until expiration.
Who is affected and who can still travel with benefits
The interruption mainly hits people waiting for their Global Entry interview or those trying to renew with interview requirements.
- New Global Entry applicants who haven’t completed an interview will likely face delays.
- Renewals that require in-person verification may be postponed.
- Approved applicants who already completed interviews and received membership should retain their benefits until their listed expiration date.
Special cases to watch
- Conditional approvals can expire before an interview is available.
- Travelers with pending status should monitor their Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) account for updates.
Practical steps for travelers right now
Take simple actions to avoid surprises at the airport and to keep travel plans on track.
- Check your TTP account regularly for messages about interviews or changes.
- Keep passport and ID documents current and accessible for manual processing.
- Allow extra time at the airport if you do not yet have a trusted-traveler benefit.
- Consider applying for TSA PreCheck separately if you need faster domestic screening.
Alternatives and workarounds while enrollment is limited
There are viable short-term options to reduce wait times and speed processing.
- Mobile Passport Control: A free app for faster customs processing at many U.S. ports of entry.
- Apply for TSA PreCheck only, which can provide quicker airport security.
- Use expedited screening through airline programs if offered.
How to monitor status and get reliable updates
Official sources provide the fastest and most accurate information about program availability.
- Visit the Trusted Traveler Program website for Global Entry announcements.
- Check the TSA website or your airline for PreCheck and airport screening notices.
- Sign up for email alerts from CBP or TSA if available.
What to expect for timelines and processing
Processing delays vary depending on the length of the shutdown and staffing decisions.
- Short interruptions may cause a backlog of interview appointments.
- Longer pauses can push interview availability weeks or months ahead.
- Planning ahead and applying early is the best mitigation.
