Homeland Security restarts Global Entry program after travelers faced long airport lines

Global Entry Program Resumes Operations After Brief Shutdown-Related Pause

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) resumed its Global Entry program on Wednesday, ending a suspension that lasted just over two weeks due to the ongoing partial government shutdown. The trusted traveler program, which allows expedited entry into the United States for pre-approved travelers, had been temporarily halted on February 22.

Global Entry serves as a time-saving service for international travelers entering the U.S., offering dedicated kiosks that allow participants to bypass longer regular immigration lines. Members pay a fee for this convenience, which includes a background check and interview process to qualify for the expedited entry privilege.

When initially suspending the program, DHS officials had indicated the pause would continue for the duration of the shutdown. During the suspension, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel who normally manage Global Entry operations were reassigned to handle regular traveler processing at ports of entry, stretching already thin resources across the agency.

The resumption comes amid growing concerns about travel disruptions. Several U.S. airports experienced significant security line delays last weekend, raising alarms about the shutdown’s impact as the traditionally busy spring travel season approaches. Travel industry groups have warned that prolonged processing delays could discourage international visitors and business travelers, potentially impacting tourism revenues and business operations nationwide.

The partial government shutdown began on February 14 following an impasse between congressional Democrats and the White House over Homeland Security funding. The core disagreement centers on immigration enforcement policies, with Democrats pushing for changes to the deportation practices that have been a centerpiece of President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda.

Travel industry experts note that Global Entry’s brief suspension highlighted the vulnerability of critical travel infrastructure to political disputes. The program, which currently has over 10 million enrolled members, has become an essential service for frequent international travelers, including business executives, diplomats, and tourism professionals.

“The on-again, off-again nature of these essential programs creates uncertainty for travelers and businesses alike,” said aviation analyst James Morrison. “Even temporary disruptions can have ripple effects throughout the travel ecosystem and damage America’s reputation as a destination.”

The shutdown has revived discussions about potential structural reforms to insulate critical travel and security operations from future funding lapses. One proposal gaining renewed attention would expand the Transportation Security Administration’s Screening Partnership Program, which allows airports to contract with private security firms while maintaining TSA oversight and standards.

Currently, 22 airports participate in this privatization program, including San Francisco International Airport and Orlando Sanford International Airport. Proponents argue that expanding the program could provide more stability during government shutdowns, while critics express concerns about accountability and security standardization.

As the Global Entry program resumes, CBP has advised travelers who had appointments canceled during the suspension to reschedule through the Trusted Traveler Program website. The agency also indicated it would prioritize processing renewals for existing members whose benefits expired during the shutdown period.

The partial shutdown continues to affect other DHS operations, with approximately 15% of the department’s workforce furloughed and others working without pay. As budget negotiations continue in Washington, the travel industry remains on alert for additional disruptions that could affect the movement of people and goods across U.S. borders.