The Department of Homeland Security has suspended Global Entry operations as a partial government shutdown stretches into its second week, creating new uncertainty for international travelers. The move initially included plans to close TSA PreCheck lanes as well, but the department later reversed that decision, confirming that PreCheck remains operational for now.
The shutdown began on February 14 after Congress and the White House failed to reach a funding agreement for the Department of Homeland Security. The impasse stems largely from disagreements over immigration operations. As a result, DHS says it must take emergency measures to preserve limited funds and personnel, prioritizing core security functions.
Global Entry, operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, allows pre-approved, low-risk travelers to use expedited kiosks when reentering the United States from abroad. Travelers with Global Entry also receive TSA PreCheck benefits. In 2024, DHS reported that enrollment across Trusted Traveler programs, including PreCheck and Global Entry, reached a record 40 million members.
What the Suspension Means for Travelers
While TSA PreCheck lanes remain open, Global Entry kiosks are currently shut down until further notice. DHS stated that as staffing constraints arise, TSA will evaluate operations on a case-by-case basis and adjust as needed. Courtesy escorts for members of Congress at airports have also been suspended to refocus personnel on passenger screening.
For international arrivals, the absence of Global Entry is already having an impact. Industry experts estimate that Global Entry typically reduces customs processing times from 30 to 90 minutes in standard lines to as little as five to ten minutes. Without it, travelers are being directed to regular customs queues.
Some passengers have reported longer waits but no widespread chaos at major airports. TSA data showed most security lines remained under 15 minutes at many international airports through midday Sunday. However, with millions of Americans enrolled in Trusted Traveler programs, prolonged suspension could lead to congestion if international volumes rise.
Airlines and travel industry groups expressed frustration over the short notice. Airlines for America said travelers were being used as a “political football” amid the shutdown, especially at a time of record air travel demand. The organization criticized the abrupt nature of the announcement, which left little time for passengers to adjust plans.
Industry Reaction and Political Fallout
The U.S. Travel Association welcomed clarification that TSA PreCheck would remain operational but called the Global Entry suspension “extremely disappointing.” CEO Geoff Freeman said travelers should not have their mobility or security diminished due to political stalemate.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the decision, stating that shutdowns carry real-world consequences and that DHS must make tough workforce and resource decisions to mitigate risks to national security. Democrats on the House Committee on Homeland Security countered that suspending programs that streamline travel unnecessarily disrupts passengers and undermines efficiency.
TSA officers and other federal employees are continuing to work during the funding lapse, despite not receiving pay during the shutdown period. The travel industry has warned that previous shutdowns have cost billions of dollars in lost economic activity.
For now, domestic travelers enrolled in TSA PreCheck can continue using expedited lanes, while international travelers returning to the United States should expect standard customs procedures. With no immediate resolution to the funding dispute, uncertainty remains over how long Global Entry services will stay offline – and whether additional airport operations could be affected if the shutdown persists.
