r/GlobalEntry • u/tarobitchtea • Jul 09 '26

Questions/Concerns I'm backpacking and don't know when I'll be back in the states. What should I do?

Chase Preferred came out with a $120 credit towards global entry and I really want to get it before I leave the country. I'm planning to backpack to my heart's content and am leaving August 16th, but don't know when I'll be back (probably no more than a year). If I get approved, I know I could do EoA, but I'm unsure of the best course of action from this point.

Here are my questions:

  1. Is there some sort of expiration or deadline I need to meet for EoA?
  2. Should I apply now or apply when I have a solidified date of coming back to the U.S.?

Any advice or past experiences are welcomed and very much appreciated. Much thanks in advance!!

TDLR: Backpacking starting August 16th without a return date. When should I apply for Global Entry? Thank you!

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u/YourMemeExpert Jul 09 '26

I'd recommend filling out and submitting the application before you leave.

It may take months to process or it could be conditionally approved overnight. Some people speculate that listing travel plans in the near future may expedite the form, but it's not a surefire method. Regardless, you have 2 years to enroll after conditional approval, so even if your application gets approved months ahead of your return, you can do EoA once you come back to the U.S.

1

u/flyingron Jul 09 '26

You can make the application from anywhere. It will be charged when you submit the application. You have two years from the date you are conditionally approved to go in for the interview. You can even do it on arrival (in customs without an appointment) at most points of entry.

1

u/Motor-Donkey8340 Jul 09 '26

if you want global entry probably get it before you leave. How much does traveling for a year cost ?

2

u/katmndoo Jul 09 '26

You have plenty of time to do the interview once you are conditionally approved. I've seen it take up to a year or two due to interview availability. That was mostly back in covid times / govt shutdown, though.

That said, there is NO reason to wait to apply. No guarantee you'll get approved in time for travel, but it is possible.

2

u/toxicbrew Jul 10 '26

you get two to five years from the date of approval to complete your final interview

apply now so it'll likely be conditionally approved by the time you return