Has Anyone Successfully Applied for Global Entry While on an H1B Visa?

Yes, individuals on an H-1B visa can indeed apply for the Global Entry program. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) does not restrict applications based on visa status as long as the applicant meets the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility for Global Entry

One of the first steps is to check if you are from a country that is a participant in the Global Entry program. H-1B visa holders typically qualify if their home country is on the list of eligible countries.

The Application Process

Step 1: Online Application

The application process begins with completing the online application through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TPP) website. Be sure to pay the non-refundable application fee.

Step 2: Background Check

All applicants undergo a rigorous background check. It's important to note that having an H-1B visa does not disqualify you from the application process.

Step 3: In-Person Interview (if required)

Conditional applicants who pass the background check need to schedule an in-person interview at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. At the center, you will present your passport, H-1B visa, and other required documents.

Success Stories: Personal Experience

Our story began in September 2021 when an individual named John sought to join the U.S. Global Entry Program (GEP).

John, along with his wife, had been through a particularly challenging experience during their arrival at the SFO Airport. They spent 4 hours waiting for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process their H-1B visas from their trip to Mumbai, India. This dire situation prompted them to apply for the GEP to streamline their travel process.

After gathering information, they discovered the convenience of using a third-party service provider, Cox Kings Global Services (CKGS) San Francisco. This service handled all the necessary steps on behalf of the Indian Consulate, streamlining the process significantly.

Application Process Overview

To begin, John and his wife accessed and followed the instructions provided by CKGS. They started by filling out their application on the USCIS website, paying the $100 fee with their Chase Sapphire Reserve credit cards, which were promptly refunded. Following that, they registered on the CKGS website, provided the GOES ID obtained from the USCIS application, and were directed to the Indian Consulate website to fill out the detailed application form.

Once the application was complete, they visited the Post Office to get the money order for the Government of India fees. With these documents in hand, they visited CKGS, where they presented the print-outs and the money orders as per CKGS's instructions.

Background Checks and Police Verification

Within three weeks, they received emails informing them that a background check and police verification process were on their horizon. Their wife received visits from the police immediately, but John’s visits were delayed. However, the housing society security staff provided the necessary information, ensuring the process was smoothed over.

Unfortunately, the global pandemic added an extra layer of uncertainty. Travel services were paused, and appointments were hard to come by. Posts on Quora suggested a 6–8 month processing time in normal circumstances. Despite these challenges, John and his wife remained hopeful.

Final Update

By the third week of October, John received an email from USCIS requesting him to appear for the GEP interview. The same day, his wife also received a similar email. Although appointments were scarce, the use of Appointment Scanner greatly facilitated the process. John completed his interview and received approval for his GEP. His wife is scheduled to complete her interview in the coming days, and the entire application process has been conducted seamlessly from abroad.

The total process, including the impact of the pandemic, took approximately 9–10 months. Despite the challenges, John and his wife are highly satisfied with the experience and the convenience provided by the GEP program.

Conclusion

While applying for Global Entry on an H-1B visa can be a complex process, it can be successfully navigated with proper planning and the use of reliable service providers. The Global Entry program, along with third-party services, offers a relief in making the application process smoother and more efficient.