Well, here’s some encouraging news… if only there was someone who could clarify why this occurred in the first place.
In this post:
Global Entry suspension concludes after 17 days
On February 22, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) declared that it would halt Global Entry and TSA PreCheck, two initiatives that expedite the airport experience for travelers. The reasoning was that because of the partial government shutdown, resources would be redirected to “prioritizing the general traveling population.”
This rationale made absolutely no sense, since Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are both services that enhance efficiency in screening travelers, thus decreasing the number of employees required. Therefore, if you foresee being understaffed, entirely shutting down Global Entry and TSA PreCheck is counterproductive.
Regardless, the Trump administration swiftly reversed its decision on the TSA PreCheck closure, but maintained the Global Entry restrictions for over two weeks.
That is finally changing — as of 5AM ET today (March 11, 2026), Global Entry is being reinstated entirely, allowing travelers once again to access expedited immigration for reentering the United States.
Global Entry is at last restarting after a prolonged hiatus
This shift in policy is promising news, but…
I’m pleased to see the Trump administration amend its Global Entry stance, but it’s difficult to award them too much praise for simply undoing an unfounded restriction they established in the first place.
I still don’t fully grasp the background of how this situation developed, or what the reasoning behind shutting down Global Entry could have been other than “hey, let’s make life harder for everyone, as that’s an effective strategy during this shutdown.”
Was Kristi Noem instrumental in this policy, and with her now dismissed — excuse me, I mean, elevated to the significant position of “Special Envoy for the Shield of the Americas” — is the policy finally undergoing reassessment? I simply don’t understand. If anyone has an explanation that goes beyond blaming others for having “TDS,” I’d appreciate hearing it!
This policy endured for 17 days too many
Bottom line
Global Entry is resuming as of 5AM on March 11, 2026, following a 17-day closure. The Trump administration shut down Global Entry due to the partial government shutdown, but it’s not exactly clear to me how potential staffing challenges are expected to be resolved by extending the immigration screening process for certain passengers.
What are your thoughts on this Global Entry policy shift?