Hello, this is Matsui from IMS Legal Professional Corporation. As of November 27, 2024 (Japan time), Japan has become an official partner country of the Global Entry program, and Japanese nationals who do not have U.S. permanent residency will be able to apply without a promo code.
Since the program was restarted, we have received many inquiries and IMS has already submitted applications, so today we would like to provide you with further details on this new Global Entry program along with the latest information.
At airports with Global Entry lanes, you can use a Global Entry KIOSK (machine) to undergo immigration inspection when entering the U.S. First, please watch this official CBP video to quickly understand what Global Entry is. Below are some frequently asked questions.
Who can apply?
For Japanese nationals, the only qualifications for application are as follows:
- Be 14 years of age or older and have no criminal convictions
- Applicants under 18 must have parental or legal guardian consent
- Hold a machine-readable passport
Can I use it for travel to the US with ESTA?
Global Entry can also be used for travel to the US with ESTA. It is especially recommended for those who need to travel to the US frequently.
Can any visa be used?
Any visa can be used as an application qualification, but we do not recommend using it with F, M, or J visas. The period of stay for F and M visas is managed by I-20, and for J visas by DS-2019, but at present Global Entry is not linked to SEVIS. If you hold one of these visas and try to enter the United States through Global Entry, the system may mistake you for traveling with ESTA. In fact, many universities are warning international students not to use Global Entry. For example, please refer to Harvard University's guide for international students.
In other countries such as Singapore, children under 14 years old can apply, but can Japanese children not apply?
If you have Japanese nationality, children under 14 years old cannot apply. Even if they apply together with their parents, it is not possible. The content of the Global Entry program differs from country to country.
How long does it take to get permission after applying?
After completing the online application, you will be given a PASS ID. With that ID attached, send a copy of your family register to the Japanese Immigration Bureau. After the family register copy is received, the review will begin, and after the process resumes at the end of November, provisional approval will be given in just under two weeks. After that, if you have an interview at a US airport or other location, permission will basically be granted immediately.
Can I take the interview at any US airport?
You can only take the interview at certain airports. You can usually take the interview at the airport where your flight from Japan arrives.
Do I need to make an appointment for my interview?
If your flight arrives during the day, you can walk in for your interview. Or you can make an appointment at a Global Entry Center.
Can my application be rejected?
Since this is an application, not all applications will be approved. There will be an examination of your application documents and interview.
What should I do if provisional approval is not granted?
If your application is denied, you can try applying again, make a reconsideration request through your Global Entry application account, or apply for DHS TRIP (Department of Homeland Security Traveler Redress Inquiry Program).
In what cases will provisional approval not be granted?
Based on the contents of the Global Entry application, it is likely that approval will be difficult if you have a history of arrest (even if not charged), overstaying your visa in the U.S., or have violated any immigration laws.
If I have Global Entry, is ESTA unnecessary?
Global Entry is not a visa. It is not a substitute for ESTA. It is merely a program that helps to speed up the immigration inspection process. Therefore, even if Global Entry is approved, you cannot travel to the U.S. without a valid visa or ESTA.
What did you think? We hope this information is helpful to those who are unsure about applying for Global Entry.
IMS is always available to answer any questions you may have about applying for Global Entry. Please feel free to contact us anytime.
For more information, please contact us below ↓
https://imsvisa.support/en/contact/
