Global Entry is open again.
The service reopened on March 11 at 5 a.m. ET, according to a Department of Homeland Security statement shared with USA TODAY. The move comes as the partial government shutdown over funding for the Department of Homeland Security continues.
“We are working hard to alleviate the disruptions to travelers caused by the Democrats’ shutdown,” a DHS spokesperson said in the statement.
The expedited border entry process for pre-screened, trusted travelers was initially suspended by DHS, with the agency saying it was meant to conserve its personnel and resources amid the funding lapse. It was announced at the same time that the agency said it would suspend TSA PreCheck, but that decision was quickly walked back.
“Today’s step is an important one, but Congress must also act to support the Transportation Security Officers who keep our aviation system functioning. These essential employees continue to report to work without pay during the partial government shutdown, and they deserve to be compensated without delay,” U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman said in a news release applauding Global Entry’s reopening.
In recent days, TSA lines have stretched for hours at airports around the country amid a worker shortage apparently caused by the shutdown.
Travelers are advised to arrive at airports at least three hours early for their flights. The reopening of Global Entry lanes is unlikely to have an effect on crowding at TSA checkpoints.
This is a developing story.

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