Unusual reasons leading to denial of global entry applications

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Unusual reasons leading to denial of global entry applications

Research

Gary Leff Chief Financial Officer | View from the Wing

By Sky Industry News

Jul 5, 2024

When the government evaluates an applicant for Global Entry, they consider two main factors: security risk and the likelihood of customs violations. The program grants 'trusted traveler' status, offering expedited airport security and immigration procedures. This means less scrutiny, no need to remove shoes or liquids, and bypassing body scanners.

However, certain aspects of one's history can result in denial or revocation of Global Entry status. For instance, a conviction for driving under the influence within the past decade is flagged as a risk. Violating customs rules can also be problematic; even purchasing a counterfeit Starbucks mug online could lead to disqualification.

An individual recounted their experience with such a scenario: "A few years back - maybe 4 or so, I purchased a cup (a Starbucks Stanley tumbler but before the Stanley craze) from an online marketplace, Mercari. I waited for it for a few weeks; it never showed up so I opened a case with Mercari and they refunded me. About a month or two after the purchase I received a paper from customs saying they confiscated it. I brushed it off at the time and thought nothing of it… until a few days ago when my GE application from August was denied for 'prior customs or agricultural violation.'"

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Customs enforces not only agriculture rules but also corporate intellectual property laws. This particular applicant had their Global Entry application flagged due to importing what was deemed to be a counterfeit item infringing on Starbucks' intellectual property rights.

Another applicant reported being denied over "a $30 watch strap." Even minor infractions like these can affect one's eligibility for Global Entry.

Other reasons for losing Global Entry include complaints against customs officers, failing to declare items such as an apple brought from an international flight, or attempting actions deemed as severe as participating in insurrection against the United States.

Common reasons people lose their Global Entry status include:

- Uncovering undisclosed past convictions during the application period.

- Convictions while enrolled in the program.

- Derogatory information from another government.

- Breaking program rules or regulations in immigration halls.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals recently ruled that DHS decisions on Global Entry are now subject to judicial review. This development suggests that legal recourse may be available for those willing to challenge denials.

One long-time user shared their perspective: "I first got Global Entry eleven years ago after vacillating for some time. I don’t like the extra data collection. But then I figured the government had all my cell phone geolocation data anyway and innumerable other pieces of information, so I might as well get expedited treatment at the airport for it."