Step 1 - Apply for Global Entry
You must first apply for the Global Entry program through the DHS Trusted Traveler Programs website. You will be asked to pay a $120 fee for a 5 year membership. You will also have to fill out questions regarding your background.
Note: You are able to waive the $120 fee if you pay using one of these travel credit cards .
Start Your Global Entry ApplicationStep 2 - Wait for conditional approval
After your application has been submitted, you will have to wait for conditional approval. Conditional approval means that you have been pre approved for the Global Entry program, but you need to schedule an interview to finalize your application.
How long it's actually taking: Most people get conditional approval in 1-4 weeks. During busy seasons (think January after everyone's New Year's resolution to travel more), it can stretch to 6-8 weeks.
Quick tip:
Triple-check your passport info matches your application exactly. Even a missing middle initial can cause weeks of delays. We've seen it happen too many times.
Step 3 - Schedule Your Global Entry interview
Congratulations! You've been conditionally approved for Global Entry. The next step is to schedule your interview at Chicago O'Hare International EC (ORD).
What people are saying about Chicago O'Hare International EC (ORD):
"Super quick - maybe 10 minutes total. The officer just asked about my travel plans." - Last week
"Get there 15 min early. They run on time here. Don't forget your driver's license!" - Yesterday
Documents to Bring (CBP Requirements):
- Valid passport
- Driver's license or state ID
- Permanent resident card (if applicable)
- Documents showing current address if recently moved
- Click the button below to open the DHS Trusted Traveler Program website.
- Scroll down to your state (IL)
- Click on Chicago O'Hare International EC (ORD)
- Click on the "Chose This Location" button to see the available timeslots at Chicago O'Hare International EC (ORD)
Step 4 - Skip the Global Entry Interview wait time
You might notice that Chicago O'Hare International EC (ORD) is showing "No appointments available for this location", or the next appointment available is months out.
So what can you do?
Global Entry interview appointments are constantly cancelled, rescheduled, and added. This means that if you can monitor the interview slots, you can find an appointment that fits your schedule.
This is exactly what Global Entry Alerts does. We monitor the interview slots at Chicago O'Hare International EC (ORD) and send you an SMS alert when an appointment opens up. This way, you can skip the long wait time and book your interview as soon as this week.
Click below to sign up and cut months off your Global Entry interview appointment wait time.
Sign Up For Global Entry AlertsChicago O'Hare International EC (ORD) Details
10000 West O'Hare Drive
Terminal 5, Lower Level (Arrivals Floor)
CHICAGO, IL 60666
Phone Number: +1 (773) 686-2800
Directions: Hours of operation: 8:00am to 3:30pm M-F Holidays are closed. The Enrollment Center is located at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, Terminal 5, Lower Level. If Terminal 5 parking is full, then Park at Terminal 3. Take the tram to Terminal 5, take the stairs/elevator down to the lower level (arrivals). Turn Left and look for the Global Entry Sign just past McDonalds, follow it to Carousel 12 and you will see the Global Entry Enrolment sign on the wall. Check in at the window through the doorway.
Notes: CHICAGO ENROLMENT CENTER IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, THERE ARE NO WALK-INS AVAILABLE. ****REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION**** Please note that all Global Entry applicants are required to bring the following documents to their interview. (1) ALL applicants are required to bring their VALID Passport Booklet. Applicants who have additional citizenships are to bring the countries passport(s) if valid. (2) Proof of Residence – If the address on your Driver’s License is not current, please bring another proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement, mortgage or lease statement, etc.) (3) U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents are required to bring their Lawful Permanent Resident card (I-551). (4) If you are not a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident, you are required to bring proof of status (e.g., Visa [may be attached to an expired passport], Employment Authorization Form, Form I-797 Notice of Action, Form I-94, Student Sevis Form I-20, etc.).