Short answer: Each person (adult or child) needs their own Global Entry application, fee, and interview. Children under 18 need a parent or legal guardian to complete the application and attend the interview with them. You can coordinate so the family goes to the same center and, when possible, back-to-back or same-day slots. Kids don’t need to answer complex questions—the officer will confirm identity and eligibility. See Can Children Use Global Entry With Parents? and Can Children Get Global Entry? for eligibility and process.
How Family Applications Work
There is no single “family application.” Each member—including each child—has an individual Trusted Traveler account, application, and $100 fee (no discount for kids). Parents or legal guardians complete the application on behalf of minors and must be present at the interview. You can apply for everyone at once and then try to book interviews at the same center on the same day (or as close as possible) so you only make one trip.
Booking Interviews for a Family
Slots are per person. You’ll need to find multiple openings at the same center—ideally the same day or back-to-back. That’s hard to do manually because slots are scarce and go fast. Options: (1) Use an appointment alert service (e.g., GE Finder) to monitor your chosen center and grab the first opening, then try to get more slots the same day (check the scheduler after you book); (2) book whatever you can get and make multiple trips if needed; (3) use Enrollment on Arrival for adults/kids when returning from an international flight (if the airport offers EOA). See How to Track Multiple Enrollment Centers at Once.
At the Interview With Kids
Minors must appear with a parent or legal guardian. The officer will verify the child’s identity and eligibility; young children aren’t grilled. Bring each child’s passport, birth certificate (if required), and any custody documents if only one parent is present. Stay calm and answer honestly—the process is straightforward for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Global Entry application process work for families?
Each family member applies separately and pays the $100 fee. Children under 18 need a parent or guardian to complete the application and attend the interview. You can coordinate to book interviews at the same center on the same day when slots are available.
Do kids get a discount on Global Entry?
No. Each person—adult or child—pays the full $100 application fee.
Can we all go through Global Entry together as a family?
Yes. Once each member is approved, you can all use the Global Entry kiosks or lane together when entering the U.S. from abroad.
✅ Key Takeaway
Each person has their own application and fee. Coordinate interviews at the same center; use alerts or EOA to get slots. Kids need a parent/guardian at the interview.
Final Thoughts
Investing in Global Entry for the whole family pays dividends in reduced travel stress and saved time, making family trips more enjoyable for all ages.