The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) restored the Global Entry Program after a suspension began in February 2025. The shutdown was due to the wider DHS shutdown which is still ongoing. DHS reactivated the Global Entry Program on March 11, 2026.
Importance
The program was suspended nationwide on February 17, 2026 after funding for DHS stalled due to Congress couldn’t pass a budget for the next financial year. This triggered a partial shutdown of the DHS, affecting departments like Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other DHS components. The DHS shutdown of the program was mainly due to a lack of personnel during the shutdown.
Next Steps
For international travelers, restoration of the program means individuals can expedite customs processing once they arrive in the U.S. Global Entry is available at major U.S. airports. Beneficiaries can expect reduced wait times when processing their arrival, especially if they also have TSA Precheck. Global Entry is also available at land borders.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, please contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws and policy updates. In an ever-evolving immigration landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.