Global Entry At Fco: What Travelers Need To Know

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travellers to enter the U.S. via automatic kiosks at select airports. Global Entry is not available at Rome's FCO airport, as it is not a U.S. point of entry. However, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can be useful for travellers flying into the U.S. from FCO airport, as they can expedite the security and customs process.

Global Entry is a US program

To be pre-approved for the Global Entry program, applicants must undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrolment. Applicants may not qualify for Global Entry if they have a criminal history, are unable to satisfy CBP of their low-risk status, or meet other program requirements.

US citizens, US lawful permanent residents, and citizens of Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Argentina, India, Colombia, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, and Mexico are eligible for Global Entry membership. The application process varies depending on citizenship. Non-US citizens should review their country-specific requirements.

Global Entry members can also use the TSA PreCheck lanes at airport security checks in the US.

FCO is Rome's airport

FCO, or Leonardo da Vinci Rome Fiumicino Airport, is Rome's main airport. It is located in Fiumicino, 19 to 22 miles outside of Rome. It is Italy's largest and busiest airport, serving over 40 million passengers each year. It is also the 9th busiest airport in Europe and the 46th busiest in the world.

Fiumicino is the principal hub for ITA Airways, Italy's flag carrier and largest airline. It was also the hub for Alitalia, which was Italy's largest airline until it became defunct. Several other airlines, such as Neos, AeroItalia, Ryanair, Vueling, and Wizz Air, also operate out of Fiumicino.

The airport has three runways and three main terminals, with one dedicated to domestic flights and another to international flights. The airport offers several transport options to get to Rome's city centre, including train, bus, shuttle bus, and taxi.

Fiumicino has a rich history, with remains of Roman ships discovered during its construction in the 1960s. It has also been the site of two terrorist attacks, in 1973 and 1985, and has experienced several aircraft hijackings over the years.

Global Entry doesn't work at FCO

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows pre-approved, low-risk travellers returning to the U.S. to pass through automatic kiosks at select airports. This means that Global Entry does not work at FCO (Rome's main airport).

Global Entry is only available at certain airports, and as of January 2023, it was available at nearly 60 U.S. airports. In addition, Global Entry is available at almost 20 international airports offering preclearance for U.S. travellers. However, Rome's FCO airport is not one of these.

While Global Entry is not available at FCO, travellers can still use TSA PreCheck, which is included with Global Entry membership. TSA PreCheck allows travellers to speed through TSA security via a dedicated line, without having to remove their shoes, laptop, liquids, belt, or light jacket.

It is recommended that travellers arrive at FCO at least 3 hours before their international flight to allow enough time to check in and get through security.

TSA Precheck doesn't work at FCO

TSA PreCheck is a US government program that allows low-risk travellers to expedite their airport security screening process. It is currently available in more than 200 airports and 90+ airlines.

However, TSA PreCheck is not available at all airports. Notably, it is not available at FCO Airport in Rome, Italy. This means that travellers departing from FCO Airport will not be able to use the TSA PreCheck lane and will need to go through the standard security screening process.

It is recommended that travellers arriving at FCO Airport give themselves ample time, usually around 3 hours, to check in and go through security. This is because security wait times at FCO Airport can vary, and it is better to be early to avoid missing your flight.

While TSA PreCheck can be a convenient option for travellers looking to expedite their airport security screening, it is important to note that it is not universally available and may not work at all airports, including FCO Airport in Rome, Italy.

FCO security wait times vary

On a dedicated webpage, Fiumicino Airport states that the times for conducting security checks may vary throughout the day. They recommend that travellers always arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare.

To avoid long lines, travellers can secure a free security time slot with QPass, which offers a dedicated reception, a reserved entrance, and an exclusive queue. This service is available at Terminal 1 from 5 am to 8 pm and at Terminal 3 East from 3 am to 11 pm.

Additionally, travellers can book the Fast Track service for €7 to expedite their security check. Children aged 0 to 12 can use this service for free when accompanied by a paying adult. This service is available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 East from 5 am to 11 pm.

Frequently asked questions