Global Entry Name Change: What to Know - NerdWallet (2024)

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Whether you got married, underwent a transition to match your gender identity or simply don’t like your given name, you can apply for a legal name change. When it comes to travel, your legal name must match your documents, including a passport, a frequent-flyer account and a Global Entry card.

Although we’re not here to help you with the former two (at least not in this article), let’s discuss how to request a Global Entry name change.

Do you need an appointment to change your name with Global Entry?

Remember the lengthy waiting period for the first Global Entry application? Thankfully, you don’t have to go through that again when requesting a name change.

The process is much easier because you don’t have to make an appointment as you did for your enrollment interview. Simply show up to an enrollment center during business hours and bring your new passport, a legal name change document and the original Global Entry card with you for the officer to verify your identity. Feel free to call your closest enrollment center for a complete list of documents you should bring.

If you’re coming back from a trip abroad and there’s an enrollment center at the arrival airport, you can complete a name change as a walk-in as long as you have a conditional approval. Just make sure to have the necessary documents on you.

» Learn more: How to get TSA PreCheck for free

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Global Entry Name Change: What to Know - NerdWallet (1)

How to request a Global Entry name change

Because Global Entry is for low-risk travelers, it’s important to make sure that your identity is up to date. If you’ve changed your legal name, make sure to update it in the Global Entry system before your next trip.

To update your passport information, log in to your Trusted Traveler Programs account. From there, select “Update Documents.” On the next page, select “Update Passport,” and you’ll have the option to edit your personal information. Submit the changes for a review.

In the case of a name change, you’ll have to visit a Global Entry enrollment center in person to complete the name change request.

Note that the name change request itself is free. However, if you want to receive a new Global Entry card, you’ll have to pay $25 for a replacement.

Upon approval, your name change will be effective immediately, and you can utilize both Global Entry and TSA PreCheck lines with your new ID. Note that Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck, which lets you go through a dedicated security line and save time at more than 200 U.S. airports.

» Learn more: Is Clear worth the cost?

How to renew Global Entry for free

Some travel cards reimburse the cost of the Global Entry enrollment ($100 for five years) in the form of a statement credit. You can use your travel card’s benefit to enroll yourself, a friend or a family member.

Depending on the card, you can get a new credit available to use every four to five years. The following travel cards reimburse the cost of enrolling in Global Entry:

Cards that offer Global Entry enrollment credit

  • Aeroplan® Credit Card.

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

  • Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.

  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card.

  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

  • IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card.

  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card.

  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express.

  • Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card.

  • United Club℠ Infinite Card.

  • United℠ Explorer Card.

  • United Quest℠ Card.

  • U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card.

Terms apply.

Existing Global Entry members are eligible to start the renewal process one year before the expiration date. If your renewal doesn’t get processed in time, you have up to 24 months to use your benefits as long as you submit a request for a renewal before your membership expires.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Other FAQs

Does your Known Traveler Number change when you change your name?

No. Conveniently, your Known Traveler Number stays the same when you update your passport information or request a name change, so there is no need to rush and update your frequent-flyer accounts.

» Learn more: The guide to Known Traveler Numbers

Is it easy to sync my Global Entry membership with a new passport?

If you’re getting a new passport because of a name change, you’ll want to take a few extra steps to connect it properly with your Global Entry membership. Here are some tips.

  • Start the process right away. Updating your passport information can take time, so if you have a trip coming up, make sure to request a change earlier rather than later to be able to use the Global Entry kiosks.

  • Remember to bring the documents confirming your new name. This includes your Global Entry card, your new U.S. passport with your new name and your official legal name change document. This can be a marriage certificate, a divorce decree or a court order.

  • Pay the right way to save money. If a renewal requires payment, use a credit card that reimburses Global Entry fees — like one of the cards mentioned earlier — to make sure the renewal cost is essentially free to you.

» Learn more: How to get Global Entry

Can you travel with your maiden name passport?

Yes, you can travel with your maiden name on your passport.

If you got married or divorced and changed the name on your ID but not your passport, you can still travel internationally. You can use the current passport, but you have to be careful during the booking process.

Make sure that the name on your flight overseas matches the name on your passport. It’s also worth mentioning, if you collect airline miles, that the name on your frequent-flyer account must remain the same as well for you to earn rewards. Naturally, if you want to use the Global Entry perks, that name must match your passport, too.

So, if you haven’t changed your name on your travel documents, you can still travel under the name printed on your passport.

» Learn more: Tips for couples to maximize travel rewards

If you need to request a Global Entry name change

You can fill out the new details online, but note that you still have to visit an enrollment center to solidify the name change in the Trusted Traveler Programs system. No appointment is needed, but make sure to grab the necessary documents to verify that you are who you say you are. Although inconvenient, the process shouldn’t take long.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024:

  • Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

  • Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

  • Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Global Entry Name Change: What to Know - NerdWallet (2024)

FAQs

Global Entry Name Change: What to Know - NerdWallet? ›

The process is much easier because you don't have to make an appointment as you did for your enrollment interview. Simply show up to an enrollment center during business hours and bring your new passport, a legal name change document and the original Global Entry card with you for the officer to verify your identity.

Can I use my Global Entry if I changed my name? ›

All Global Entry members can update their passport information through their TTP account. Click on "Update Documents." If the passport update involves a name change, you must visit a Global Entry enrollment center to update your information.

How long does TSA PreCheck name change take? ›

Please click here to view enrollment providers' contact information. Name changes may take up to 45 days to complete and processing time varies by individual.

How do I get reconsidered for Global Entry? ›

In most cases, individuals will appeal directly to the CBP Ombudsman. However, if you were not given a reason for your denial or revocation, it is best to initially contact the enrollment center to try to determine why your application was denied, before appealing to the CBP Ombudsman.

What questions does Global Entry ask you? ›

Here are some of the questions you may be asked:
  • Why do you want Global Entry?
  • Who is your employer?
  • What is your job?
  • Have you ever had your fingerprints taken as part of an arrest or incident?
  • Have you ever had issues with customs or border patrol?
Apr 25, 2024

Can you travel internationally after name change? ›

Citizens: United States Citizens who change their name due to marriage, divorce, or because of any other circ*mstance may travel using their United States passport or other Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative approved document in their prior name.

Do I have to update my Global Entry if I get a new passport? ›

Should I update my Trusted Traveler information (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI) when I receive my passport? Yes. The Department of Homeland Security's Trusted Traveler programs speed up processing at U.S. airports and international borders.

Can I get TSA PreCheck if my passport has my maiden name? ›

Yes, TSA requires all names used, current and past. You do not need to provide documents that prove you have previously used another name or alias. The name provided on the TSA PreCheck® application must be the name used when making your airline travel reservations.

How do I email TSA to change my name? ›

They ask you to email tsaenrollmentdocuments@tsa.dhs.gov. The subject line should be “Name Change.” You must include a copy of your marriage certificate and driver's license. Make sure that all your PDF files have your KTN (known traveler number) and expiration date on the top of the page.

Can I make a name correction at the airport? ›

Depending on the scenario, name changes on tickets are allowed. Airline policies, terms and conditions may define circ*mstances differently, but some common name change scenarios are: Typos and spelling mistakes: Many airlines permit agents to make minor name corrections, but a fee may be assessed.

What disqualifies you from Global Entry? ›

Reasons for Ineligibility

You may not be eligible for participation in the Global Entry program if you: Provide false or incomplete information on the application; Have been convicted of any criminal offense or have pending criminal charges or outstanding warrants (to include driving under the influence);

How many people get denied Global Entry? ›

According to a New York Times article, 3 to 5 percent of the 30,000 Global Entry traveler applications submitted each month are rejected. Most common reason? Criminal background checks come up with some sort of red flag that causes the application to be rejected prior to any interview.

Can you edit a Global Entry form after it has been submitted? ›

A: Once you have submitted and paid for your application to a Trusted Traveler Program, you must wait until the interview stage to correct or update anything on your application. Once certified and submitted, the application is locked.

How do I change my name on Global Entry? ›

All Global Entry members can update their passport information through their TTP account. Click on "Update Documents." If the passport update involves a name change, you must visit a Global Entry enrollment center to update your information.

Does it matter what you wear to Global Entry interview? ›

There is not a dress code for Global Entry interviews. You will have already been conditionally approved at this time. The primary purpose is to verify your identity and documentation. You'll probably be asked several questions, but it's not like a job interview.

How to answer why do you want Global Entry? ›

General Background and Eligibility Interview Questions

How to Answer: Emphasize your reasons for seeking enrollment, such as frequent international travel for business or pleasure, desire for expedited entry and security clearance, and interest in contributing to streamlined border control processes.

Can Global Entry replace real ID? ›

Global Entry cards meet all the requirements for a Real ID, so if you don't want to spend the time getting a new state ID and have Global Entry, you're in the clear. The membership costs $100 and is valid for five years.

How do I update my Global Entry with a new visa? ›

Updating VISA Information

If a Global Entry member obtains a new visa, or obtains a new petition for a work visa, the member must notify CBP in-person at a Global Entry enrollment center. A member must visit an enrollment center to have CBP add visas and/or update visa information.

Can I travel with a different last name on my passport and green card? ›

Travel Considerations

When traveling with a newly issued green card, it's crucial to carry a copy of your marriage certificate along with your passport, especially if the passport still bears your previous name. This will resolve any discrepancies between your passport and green card.

How long does it take to get a replacement Global Entry card? ›

Replacement cards may arrive within 10 business days of your request, but can also take as long as 4 to 6 months. Your Global Entry card is usually mailed to your mailing address if you have one on file.

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