Global Entry At Dublin Airport: What You Need To Know

Dublin Airport offers a unique U.S. Preclearance facility in Terminal 2, allowing passengers to clear U.S. Security and Customs before boarding a flight to the United States. This service is said to save passengers up to two hours, with Global Entry members able to use the Global Entry kiosks to expedite this process further. Dublin Airport is one of the few airports outside of the U.S. to offer this service, alongside Shannon in Ireland, and several airports in Aruba, Bermuda, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates.

Dublin Airport has Global Entry kiosks

Dublin Airport does have Global Entry kiosks. Terminal 2 features a "U.S. Preclearance" facility, which allows passengers to clear U.S. Security and Customs before flying back to the United States. This process involves a security screening from the TSA and Customs, where passengers present their passports and boarding passes. Passengers are required to declare any agricultural products, purchases made abroad, and possession of more than $10,000 in currency.

Global Entry kiosks are available for use within the Dublin Airport for flights returning to the United States. The Global Entry program allows members to skip the traditional U.S. Customs process and use the kiosks for a faster experience. The kiosks can be used by looking at the camera, which will then print out a clearance slip. This slip is then given to a customs officer, along with the member's passport.

The Global Entry program is highly regarded by travellers, who find the process to be convenient and a significant time-saver. One traveller commented that the Global Entry kiosks saved them "so much time" at Dublin Airport. Another traveller noted that the kiosks were "extremely fast and easy" to use.

It is important to note that Dublin Airport recommends arriving three hours before a scheduled international flight, and even earlier if checking luggage. Additionally, there are restrictions on food items that can be brought into the U.S., and customs duty tariffs may apply.

US pre-clearance in Dublin saves time

US Preclearance at Dublin Airport allows US-bound passengers to undertake all US immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections at Dublin Airport prior to departure. Dublin Airport is one of only 15 locations worldwide that offer US Preclearance, and it is the only airport in Europe with this facility.

US Preclearance saves time and energy for passengers on arrival in the US. After a long-haul flight, the only thing you'll need to do is collect your luggage. You will be treated as a domestic arrival, and if you are an onward connecting passenger in the US, your baggage will be checked through to your final destination.

Global Entry is available at Dublin Airport, and users have reported that it saves time. One user reported that Global Entry saved them "so much time" and that the process was "extremely fast and easy". Another user reported that Global Entry took "under 30 minutes", while the regular customs line took "50 minutes".

Global Entry pass holders are treated as domestic arrivals in the US

Dublin Airport offers a "U.S. Preclearance" facility, which allows passengers to clear U.S. Security (TSA) and U.S. Customs before flying back to the United States. This means that Global Entry pass holders are treated as domestic arrivals once they land in the U.S. and can simply pick up their bags and go. This is because they have already passed through U.S. immigration, customs, and agricultural inspections before boarding their U.S.-bound flight in Dublin.

The Global Entry program allows pass holders to use self-service kiosks at Dublin's Terminal 2 Preclearance facility, making the process faster and more convenient. This is particularly beneficial for passengers with tight connecting flights to other U.S. airports, as they can head straight to their connecting flight without having to go through additional inspections upon arrival in the U.S.

In addition to saving time, preclearance at Dublin Airport also offers other advantages. Passengers can check their bags through to their final destination in the U.S., even if they have a connecting flight. Moreover, airlines can access less expensive U.S. domestic gates and gain access to new routes to the U.S. that are in high demand.

However, it is important to note that preclearance does require additional time and planning before departure. Dublin Airport recommends arriving at least three hours before a scheduled international flight, and even earlier if checking luggage. While the time savings is advantageous, especially for busy travellers, it is crucial to plan accordingly to avoid any delays or inconveniences.

Global Entry interviews at US Customs in Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport does have Global Entry kiosks, and it is possible to complete your Global Entry interview at US Customs in the airport. However, it is important to note that Dublin Airport does not take appointments for interviews and only offers Enrollment on Arrival (EoA). This means that conditionally approved Global Entry applicants can complete their interviews when departing from Dublin to the US.

Mechanics of the Interview Process

When departing from Dublin Airport to the US, you will first need to go through regular Irish security. Then, follow the signs to the US Preclearance area, which is located on the ground floor of Terminal 2. Keep in mind that once you enter the US Preclearance area, you will not be able to return to the main terminal and shops.

In the Preclearance area, you will go through another security screening, similar to TSA in the US. After this, you will proceed to the line to speak with customs agents. Inform the agent that you have a pending Global Entry application and would like to do your interview. You will need to provide the following documents:

• A valid passport (if you use more than one passport, bring them all)
• Documents providing evidence of residency (e.g., driver's license with a current address, mortgage statement, rental payment statement, utility bill, etc.)
• A permanent resident card (if applicable)

The customs agent may then direct you to a separate waiting area for the interview. The interview itself is typically brief, lasting around 5-20 minutes. After the interview, you will be free to proceed to the gate area and wait for your flight.

Tips and Considerations

• It is recommended to arrive at Dublin Airport at least 3 hours before your long-haul flight to the US, especially if you need to check bags or are travelling in a group.
• US Preclearance at Dublin Airport can be busy during peak periods, so allow plenty of time for check-in, security screening, and Preclearance.
• Some travellers have reported that US Customs officers at Dublin Airport were not aware of the Global Entry interview process or were unhelpful. In such cases, it may be necessary to politely but firmly assert your request for the interview.
• There have been mixed reports on the availability of interviews during peak hours. While US Customs is typically busy between 11 am and 2 pm, some travellers have been able to secure interviews during this time, while others have been turned away.
• If you require any modifications, auxiliary aids, or services for your interview due to a disability, inform the interviewing CBP officer immediately.
• After completing your interview, your online application status may not immediately reflect the change. There have been reports of delays in receiving confirmation of approval, even several weeks after the interview.

Overall, while the Global Entry interview process at Dublin Airport can be somewhat unpredictable, many travellers have successfully completed their interviews and found it to be a straightforward and efficient process.

The Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app speeds up the process

Dublin Airport offers a unique "U.S. Preclearance" facility in Terminal 2, allowing passengers to clear U.S. Security (TSA) and Customs before boarding their U.S.-bound flight. This service is said to save passengers up to two hours of time.

The Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app further speeds up the process by allowing eligible travellers to complete part of their immigration process before arriving at the pre-clearance facility. The MPC app is free and available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It enables travellers to submit their travel documents, photos, and customs declaration information digitally, removing the need for paper forms. As a result, travellers can expect shorter wait times, less congestion, and more efficient processing upon arrival at USCBP.

It is important to note that the MPC app is not a replacement for the Global Entry program. Global Entry members are recommended to continue using their dedicated services and kiosks. However, for non-Global Entry passengers, the MPC app offers a streamlined entry process, directing them to a specific processing lane.

Dublin Airport is one of the few airports outside the U.S. to offer preclearance services, making it a convenient option for U.S.-bound travellers. By taking advantage of the MPC app and the preclearance facility, passengers can save time and have a smoother travel experience when returning to the United States.

Frequently asked questions