Global Entry Mobile is the official US Customs and Border Protection application that significantly accelerates the customs process for returning international travelers. The app's primary function allows Global Entry members to complete their arrival processing by taking a selfie at participating airports, bypassing the standard kiosk lines entirely. This feature proves particularly valuable for travelers with tight connections or those arriving during peak hours when customs queues can stretch to hour-long waits.
Users consistently report the app transforms what is typically the most stressful part of international travel into a quick, streamlined process. At airports like Chicago O'Hare and Houston Intercontinental, travelers using the mobile option typically proceed directly to a dedicated lane where officers quickly verify their digital submission. The setup process requires initial configuration while connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data, but once completed, the actual border crossing takes mere seconds.
Some users note that signage for mobile entry lanes could be more prominent at certain airports, occasionally causing confusion about where to proceed. However, the overwhelming consensus indicates the app delivers exactly what it promises: a dramatically faster re-entry experience without paperwork or lengthy queues.
Users consistently report the app transforms what is typically the most stressful part of international travel into a quick, streamlined process. At airports like Chicago O'Hare and Houston Intercontinental, travelers using the mobile option typically proceed directly to a dedicated lane where officers quickly verify their digital submission. The setup process requires initial configuration while connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data, but once completed, the actual border crossing takes mere seconds.
Some users note that signage for mobile entry lanes could be more prominent at certain airports, occasionally causing confusion about where to proceed. However, the overwhelming consensus indicates the app delivers exactly what it promises: a dramatically faster re-entry experience without paperwork or lengthy queues.
Key Features
Mobile arrival processing with photo verification
Dedicated entry lanes at participating airports
Paperless customs declaration
“
Used GEM for the 1st time in Houston. App worked very smoothly. There was a line at Global Entry and this caused some confusion in where to go if you are using the Mobile app. Only suggestion is to make this clearer.
★★★★★Verified User Review
iOSUpdated Dec 1, 2025
