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This service can help you find Global Entry appointments

Nov. 10, 2023
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4 min read
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As Global Entry interview appointments have become coveted, multiple third-party services have taken the legwork out of scouring U.S. Customs and Border Protection's online scheduling tool to identify available interview slots as part of the final step of the application process.

Once new users are approved for Global Entry, conditionally or otherwise, they must complete an in-person interview to use the Trusted Traveler Program that helps expedite the customs process back into the U.S.

Though appointment availability appears to have improved since the pandemic-induced backlog, some locations remain booked through the end of the year as of November.

If you are having trouble scheduling an interview or simply want to expedite the process, consider Global Entry Spotter. On average, it notifies 90% of users of appointments within 24 hours of signing up.

What is Global Entry Spotter

global entry spotter graphics
GLOBAL ENTRY SPOTTER

Global Entry Spotter is a paid service that alerts users of open appointments via text message at their top three desired Global Entry Enrollment centers.

As of November, it scans appointments at 110 centers, but at any point, it could be in the 105—120 range, said Alex Tilford, the company's co-founder.

Unlike other appointment-finding services, Global Entry Spotter does not operate on a monthly basis but rather charges $25 for unlimited alerts.

"We wanted to guarantee that all of our customers booked appointments, so we figured out a way to offer unlimited alerts. All other competitors only offer alerts for 30/31 days, but what if there are only two new appointments in that time that you're unable to book?" said Tilford. "We offer indefinitely until you unsubscribe so that you are guaranteed an appointment."

How to sign up for Global Entry Spotter

global entry spotter sign up
GLOBAL ENTRY SPOTTER

To sign up, new users create an account and select their top three enrollment center location preferences and alert preferences. The entire sign-up process should take less than one minute.

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How Global Entry Spotter alerts work

global entry spotter screenshot
GLOBAL ENTRY SPOTTER

Though the success rate varies based on the enrollment center, 9 out of 10 Global Entry Spotter users receive their first alert within 24 hours, according to the company.

"Sometimes it only takes minutes depending on location, sometimes longer," Tilford said. "We haven't had anyone wait longer than a week for their first alert."

Customers who are unable to secure an appointment within the first month are entitled to a refund, Tilford confirmed.

After the Global Entry Spotter notifies users of open interview slots and they successfully interview, users should unsubscribe from the service.

"Our duty is finished when they have secured an appointment," Tilford said. "But, if they have to cancel their appointment and find another, they are able to turn our alerts back on free of charge."

Bottom line

global entry wait time
GLOBAL ENTRY SPOTTER

Unlike Appointment Scanner or TTP Appointments, which provide alerts on a monthly basis, Global Entry Spotter offers users unlimited alerts for a one-time fee.

With current Global Entry application processing times averaging four to six months per CBP, approved Global Entry applicants with imminent immediate travel plans could benefit from this service.

Related reading:

Featured image by CHRIS DONG/THE POINTS GUY
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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  • Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
  • Solid welcome bonus

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  • Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
  • Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
  • You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.