Effective 6:00 AM ET on 22 February 2026, the United States implemented a temporary Global Entry shutdown. The move affects both new enrollments and existing members, disrupting expedited airport processing for nearly 13 million registered travelers. The Global Entry program operates at 62 U.S. airports and 14 international preclearance locations, all of which may be impacted by the shutdown.
The Global Entry program shutdown will particularly affect business travelers and frequent flyers who depend on such streamlined and time-efficient airport services. Many plan their itineraries assuming quicker re-entry into the United States. Without Global Entry access, arrival procedures become less efficient, complicating connection planning and post-arrival schedules.
How will the Global Entry shutdown impact travelers?
A temporary suspension of Global Entry program processing during a 2026 U.S. government shutdown has disrupted thousands of international travelers. The program, managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, allows pre-approved low-risk travelers to clear immigration through automated kiosks instead of waiting in regular passport control lines. When enrollment centers close and interviews pause, the effects are felt quickly across major airports.
Longer Immigration Wait Times. One of the most immediate consequences is extended wait times at U.S. arrival halls. Travelers who typically use Global Entry kiosks must join standard immigration queues. At busy airports such as New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, this can add significant time after long-haul flights. For passengers with tight domestic connections, the risk of missed onward flights increases.
Growing Application and Interview Backlogs. During a shutdown, Global Entry enrollment centers stop conducting interviews. Conditional approvals remain pending, and scheduled appointments are postponed. Even after services resume, a backlog of applicants can lead to extended waiting periods. Travelers who planned upcoming international trips may find themselves unable to activate their membership in time.
How can travelers reduce wait times during the Global Entry shutdown?
As a simple alternative, eligible travelers can use the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app offered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This free service lets passengers submit their passport details and customs declaration digitally before arrival, which can reduce time spent in regular immigration queues. While it does not replace Global Entry, MPC often provides a faster processing lane at many major U.S. airports for arriving international passengers.
Will Global Entry shutdown impact preclearance airports across the globe?
Yes, the Global Entry suspension linked to the 2026 U.S. government shutdown also affects U.S. preclearance airports worldwide. This includes major hubs in Canada and other international locations where U.S. immigration checks happen before departure. With Global Entry kiosks and priority lanes suspended by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, travelers with international flight tickets will have to join standard inspection lines, which can lead to longer wait times and slower processing at preclearance facilities.
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