On February 12th, 2024, Washington Dulles International Airport became the first airport in the United States to offer Global Entry interviews on departure. Previously, Global Entry interviews were only available via either a scheduled appointment at a Global Entry Enrollment Center or through an interview upon arrival from international travel at participating airports.

Credit. Dulles Airport (IAD) X. Global Entry Announcement.

What Is Global Entry

Global Entry is a U.S. Customers and Border Protection membership program that allows expedited security clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers when re-entering the United States from abroad. The program requires a one-time application fee, a background check, and an in-person interview. Once approved, members receive expedited security screening through designated  Global Entry kiosks at select airports. As part of the Global Entry membership, travelers also receive TSA PreCheck for departure and transit.

Here are a few additional program details:

• Application Fee: $100
• Membership Duration: 5 Years
• Enrollment Centerts: 100+
• Global Entry Airports: 77

Unlike other expedited security programs, such as CLEAR, every traveler requires an individual Global Entry membership, regardless of age (i.e. infants require a Global Entry membership). Thankfully, there are numerous credit cards which include a Global Entry credit as part of the benefits.

Credit. U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Global Entry Logo.

Global Entry Interview On Departure At Dulles

Washington Dulles International Airport is the first, and only, airport in the United States to offer Global Entry interviews on departure. However, only those travelers receiving a conditional Global Entry approval are eligible for an interview upon departure. In addition, to a travel document (i.e. passport), travelers will need a physical document providing evidence of residency (i.e. driver’s license, mortgage or bank statement, utility bill, etc). This requirement does not apply to minors. Travelers will also need to possess an airline ticket proving their international flight, as this service is not available to those traveling domestically.

The enrollment office will be open from 12:00 – 20:00 daily, and is located inside the B Concourse at Gate B41. Conditionally approved travelers should plan to arrive early at Dulles in order to allow ample time to complete the interview process before their international flight departure.

Credit. U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Global Entry Interview.

Final Thoughts

With the introduction of Global Entry upon departure at Washington Dulles International Airport, travelers now have a third option to conduct an interview for Global Entry final approval. While more options for travelers is always positive, the overall long term benefits of this option are minimal. Given the limited number of enrollment centers and airport locations for in-person interviews, many potential applicants struggle to find interview slots for extended periods of time. An alternative investment, with potentially greater benefits from a traveler perspective, would be the re-introduction and expansion of virtual interviews.