How to Apply for Global Entry at Charleston Airport: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published on September 25, 2025

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has expanded its Global Entry program in the Southeast with the opening of a new Global Entry Enrollment Center at Charleston International Airport. This marks a significant milestone for South Carolina as the new center becomes the first in the state, joining existing enrollment centers in Charlotte and Atlanta.

The Charleston Enrollment Center, which began operations this week, will offer appointment-based interviews for those looking to complete the enrollment process into the Trusted Traveler Program. With the increasing demand for expedited entry services among international travelers, this facility is set to streamline travel for frequent flyers, helping reduce wait times and enhance the airport experience for many.

Why Charleston Airport’s Global Entry Enrollment Center Matters

The opening of the new Global Entry Enrollment Center in Charleston addresses the growing need for quicker, more efficient customs processing for international travelers, particularly in the Southeast. It is now easier for South Carolina residents, business travelers, and tourists traveling through Charleston to access the program and benefit from faster entry into the United States. The program is especially beneficial for those who frequently travel internationally, including business professionals and tourists visiting the US for extended stays.

The Charleston Global Entry Center is housed within the CBP office at Charleston International Airport, located at 5551 Porsche Boulevard, Suite 102, North Charleston. The center operates Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and offers scheduled interviews for eligible applicants. Walk-in appointments are not accepted, so travelers must schedule an appointment in advance via the Trusted Traveler Program website.

Global Entry Program: A Game Changer for Travelers

The Global Entry Program is a key initiative from CBP aimed at providing expedited entry to the US for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. The program allows travelers to bypass the lengthy customs processing lines at select US airports, instead using automated kiosks to clear customs more efficiently.

For travelers approved for Global Entry, the benefits extend beyond just faster border control processing. Members are also eligible for TSA PreCheck, which offers expedited security screening at participating airports. This makes it an excellent choice for both frequent international travelers and those who wish to travel domestically with ease.

Applicants for the Global Entry program must complete a detailed background check and undergo an in-person interview as part of the enrollment process. After completing the interview and being approved, membership is valid for five years, with periodic renewals required.

Benefits for Business Travelers and Tourists

For business travelers, the Charleston Global Entry Enrollment Center is a much-needed development. South Carolina is home to growing industries, including tech, finance, and tourism, and the Charleston area sees a high volume of business-related international flights. The ability to bypass long customs lines and travel more efficiently benefits both time-sensitive professionals and the businesses they represent. This is particularly important for business people who frequently travel to and from the US for meetings, conferences, and other professional commitments.

For tourists, the Global Entry program makes traveling to the US easier and less stressful, especially with the growing popularity of Charleston as a vacation destination. Whether it’s visiting the city’s historical landmarks, enjoying its vibrant cultural scene, or exploring the nearby Lowcountry, tourists can now move more efficiently through U.S. customs and spend less time in the airport.

The Expansion of Global Entry and Its Impact on South Carolina

The opening of the Charleston Enrollment Center is a part of CBP’s larger initiative to expand Global Entry and other Trusted Traveler Programs in the Southeast region. With increasing international travel and an expanding number of flights from Charleston to global destinations, the need for expedited entry services has never been greater.

According to Gregory Alvarez, CBP Director of Field Operations in Atlanta, this new facility will enhance convenience for travelers in South Carolina and the surrounding areas. It reflects CBP’s commitment to improving accessibility to the Global Entry program for the Southeast’s growing pool of international travelers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Global Entry at Charleston

If you’re interested in applying for Global Entry at the Charleston Enrollment Center, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Apply Online: Start by visiting the Trusted Traveler Program website at https://ttp.cbp.dhs.gov and complete the Global Entry application.
2. Background Check: After submitting your application, wait for your background check to be completed by CBP.
3. Schedule an Interview: Once approved, schedule your in-person interview at the Charleston Global Entry Enrollment Center through the TTP website.
4. Prepare Documents: Bring the necessary documents to your interview, including your passport, driver’s license, and proof of residency.
5. Complete the Interview: Attend your interview at the Charleston Enrollment Center. The interview will take about 15-20 minutes, where a CBP officer will verify your documents and biometric information.
6. Approval: Once approved, you will receive your Global Entry membership and begin enjoying expedited entry into the US and TSA PreCheck benefits.

Key Points to Remember:

• Charleston Enrollment Center is now open, offering a new opportunity for travelers to access the Global Entry program in South Carolina.
• Global Entry allows for expedited US entry, offering benefits like TSA PreCheck for faster security screening at airports.
• The Charleston Enrollment Center operates Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and appointments must be scheduled in advance via the TTP website.
• Travelers must bring a valid passport, driver’s license, and proof of residency to their interview.
• Global Entry membership is valid for five years and requires periodic renewal and vetting.

Conclusion

The opening of the Charleston Global Entry Enrollment Center is a major step toward making international travel easier and more efficient for both business travelers and tourists in South Carolina. By offering expedited customs processing and TSA PreCheck, the program simplifies travel for frequent flyers, allowing them to spend more time on their destination and less time in airports. This addition further solidifies Charleston as a key entry point for international travelers, highlighting the growing importance of the Southeast region in the global travel landscape.